FCC Plans Vote to Expand Wi-Fi, Approve High-Power Outdoor Devices

Chairman Brendon Carr said expanded operations would put the United States back at forefront of technological leadership.

Federal Communications Commission Chair Brendan Carr speaks during the U.S. Chamber of Commerce 2025 Global Aerospace Summit in Washington, on Sept. 9, 2025. Annabelle Gordon/Reuters

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) on Jan. 7 announced a vote to enable faster Wi-Fi and more affordable connections through the use of unlicensed devices.

The announcement from FCC Chairman Brendon Carr states that the vote, which will take place later this month, will address connectivity issues by creating a category of unlicensed devices that can operate outdoors and at higher power than previously allowed.