The FCC is taking several preparatory steps in anticipation of Auction 103, an incentive auction of the 37 GHz, 39 GHz, and 47 GHz bands expected later this year. Specifically, FCC staff issued a public notice where it announced that the FCC will (1) freeze processing of future non-pro forma applications for transfers and assignments of 39 GHz licenses to facilitate the reconfiguration process starting April 15, 2019; (2) modify incumbents’ 39 GHz licenses in accordance with a proposed FCC order; and (3) seek comment on a proposed reconfiguration path. According to the public notice, 39 GHz incumbents will need to decide whether to (A) relinquish 39 GHz licenses in exchange for an incentive payment while preserving the opportunity to bid on new licenses in Auction 103, or (B) elect to receive modified licenses and not participate in Auction 103. The public notice details the proposed 39 GHz band reconfiguration process and solicits comment by April 15, 2019 and reply comments by April 26, 2019.
