After much waiting, the FCC finally seems prepared to announce new rules allowing Very Low Power (VLP) 6 GHz Wi-Fi operating. The initial 2020 6 GHz regulatory framework included VLP Wi-Fi, however it was never completed and signed into law. According to the FCC, this is currently scheduled to change in October.
After a three-year delay, the FCC is finally prepared to proceed with authorizing the usage of a completely new class of Wi-Fi devices: so-called “Very Low Power” devices operating in the 6 GHz band, according to FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel.
Although the new policy is not yet finalized, it is widely anticipated that it will be approved when the FCC meets on October 19. The next concern is who will use the new VLP Wi-Fi, how they will use it, and when they will use it. The FCC does not clarify what such a method would involve when it states that it will also propose allowing VLP devices to use higher power levels when using a “geofencing” system. The FCC also states that it will solicit public feedback before bringing VLP to the other 6 GHz frequencies.
Low-power wearables and XR-style gadgets, like glasses and headsets, are anticipated as VLP Wi-Fi gadgets. Some believe that VLP Wi-Fi may be used by Apple, Google, Meta, and others to connect upcoming XR headsets. Another clear application for VLP Wi-Fi is automotive connection, or linking Wi-Fi devices inside of cars and other vehicles, possibly even aircraft? Of course, IoT gadgets, whether they are wearable or not, could be used in yet another application.