The US Federal Communications Commission will vote on October 29 on a plan to auction spectrum for direct-to-device satellite services.

The proposal covers 25 MHz of spectrum plus 482 MHz identified for new uses. FCC chair Brendan Carr said the move would boost competition and extend coverage.

Direct-to-device technology lets ordinary phones connect to satellites, bringing signal to remote areas without cell towers. Carriers and satellite firms are racing to deploy it.

The auction could raise significant revenue while speeding up rural connectivity. Industry groups have broadly welcomed the plan.

If approved, the auction process would begin in the coming months. Winners would build satellite networks serving phones directly.

The vote is part of a wider FCC push to modernise spectrum policy for the space age.

The October 29 vote will be closely watched by carriers and satellite firms. If approved, bidding rules and timelines will be set in a follow-up order.

Rural communities stand to gain the most from direct-to-device coverage.