Apple Gets Green Light to Revolutionize Connectivity: 6GHz Band Unlocked for Vision Pro, CarPlay, and More
Apple, Meta, and Google have just secured a game-changing victory as the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) in the United States grants them approval to harness the untapped potential of the 6GHz band for their wireless devices. This monumental decision comes four years after the tech giants collectively petitioned the FCC for access to this spectrum, with a primary focus on unleashing the capabilities of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) devices.
In an official press release, the FCC revealed its resounding approval, with a unanimous 5-0 vote endorsing the proposed changes. This green light signifies a breakthrough, as the FCC now permits a “new class of very low-power devices” to operate within the 6GHz spectrum, fostering an ecosystem of innovative applications.
The FCC’s decision unlocks a world of possibilities, including wearable technologies, enriched learning experiences, advancements in healthcare, and the creation of new forms of entertainment. Moreover, it provides a much-needed flex space for unlicensed innovation, allowing devices to operate at very low power across short distances, delivering lightning-fast connection speeds. These characteristics are ideal for cutting-edge applications that will enhance consumer experiences and boost the nation’s economy, spanning various sectors, such as AR/VR, wearable sensors and technologies, and a multitude of Internet of Things (IoT) devices.
Under this ruling, Apple gains the ability to harness higher power levels within the 6GHz band, facilitating “very high connection speeds.” However, it’s essential to note that these signals are confined to relatively short distances to prevent interference with the current licensed usage within the 6GHz band.
In their initial petition, Apple, Meta, and Google emphasized the critical importance of having access to this spectrum for future innovations in AR and VR. The potential applications span from immersive AR/VR connectivity to enhanced peripherals, including the connection between AR glasses and smartphones. Furthermore, the new regulations open doors to improved in-vehicle applications, reducing the risk of harmful interference in cars.
For Apple, the unlocked 6GHz band holds vast potential, particularly in the context of Vision Pro and its upcoming AR and VR devices. In the automotive sector, this move could enhance the CarPlay experience, enabling more robust connectivity between mobile devices and vehicles.
While Apple and Google have yet to issue official statements regarding the FCC’s decision, Kevin Martin, Vice President of Policy at Meta, expressed appreciation for the ruling in a statement to The Verge. “We commend the FCC’s decision allowing companies like ours to use new wireless technologies to build the next wave of computing,” Martin affirmed.
