AT&T and Verizon are strongly opposing SpaceX’s plan to enhance T-Mobile’s network using its Starlink satellites. Both telecom giants argue that the satellite system could disrupt and degrade existing mobile broadband services, affecting millions of American users.
Dispute Over FCC Waiver Request
This week, AT&T and Verizon asked the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to reject SpaceX’s request for a waiver of out-of-band emission limits. SpaceX, in collaboration with T-Mobile, aims to introduce a service called Supplemental Coverage from Space (SCS) to improve T-Mobile’s network through its satellites. This proposal, however, faces backlash not just from AT&T and Verizon but also from other satellite firms like EchoStar (which owns Dish and Hughes) and Omnispace.
AT&T argues that the FCC’s recent order on SCS clearly states that these satellite services should not compromise the quality of terrestrial mobile broadband. The order stipulates that SCS should act as a secondary service, preserving the quality of existing networks and preventing interference.
Concerns About Emission Limits
A major concern from AT&T is SpaceX’s proposal to increase the allowable power flux-density limits for emissions by nine times the current standard. AT&T’s analysis predicts this could cause significant interference, reducing network throughput by up to 18% in certain areas. Such a decline in performance could impact users, particularly in already strained networks.
Verizon shares similar concerns, noting that SpaceX’s plan might harm operations in adjacent frequency bands. Verizon argues that the proposal lacks sufficient safeguards against interference, especially for devices that do not meet high-performance standards. Verizon insists that without these protections, the FCC should reject SpaceX’s waiver request to avoid worsening wireless service quality.
SpaceX and T-Mobile Defend Their Proposal
In response, SpaceX and T-Mobile argue that their plan will not negatively affect existing networks. On August 8, the companies met with FCC officials to assert that competitors are spreading misleading claims to delay the SCS rollout. They argue that every time SpaceX has shown compliance with interference standards, competitors have either altered their claims or questioned the validity of SpaceX’s data.
SpaceX also argues that the current FCC emission limits are excessively strict and need to be updated. They contend that the limit of -120 dBW/m2/MHz is more stringent than necessary, suggesting that a more balanced limit would still protect terrestrial operations while allowing SpaceX to deploy its satellite service effectively.
T-Mobile’s Position and Progress
T-Mobile is confident that the SpaceX service will not interfere with its own network operations. The company emphasizes that it has both the incentive and the obligation to prevent any harmful emissions from the SCS service. T-Mobile’s support for the waiver is based on the belief that the collaboration with SpaceX will benefit consumers, particularly in areas with limited network coverage.
T-Mobile has also highlighted the progress made with SpaceX, noting that over 100 satellites with direct-to-cellular capabilities have already been launched. These tests, according to T-Mobile, demonstrate the potential of the SCS system to significantly enhance coverage across the U.S.
The FCC has set August 22 as the deadline for SpaceX and other parties to respond to the objections from AT&T, Verizon, and other stakeholders. A final deadline for reply comments is August 29. The outcome of this debate will be crucial for the future of satellite-based cellular services in the U.S. If approved, SpaceX’s plan could revolutionize connectivity, especially in underserved regions. Conversely, if the concerns are upheld, it might lead to stricter regulations on satellite emissions and a delay in deploying these services.
