WifiForward Statement on FCC Approval of LTE-U Devices

Today’s approval of two LTE-U devices is an important milestone in unlicensed spectrum policy and consumer protection. Two years ago, equipment manufacturers submitted LTE-U devices for approval to the FCC which could have impaired the millions of consumers who rely on Wi-Fi. Instead of regulating, the FCC encouraged industry to work together to develop a plan to mitigate that harm. The result is the Wi-Fi Alliance test plan. WifiForward is pleased that Ericsson and Nokia have certified that they have passed the complete industry-developed coexistence plan. As unlicensed technologies continue to meet our growing demand for broadband, we hope today’s announcement demonstrates how the Wi-Fi community will work hard and successfully to develop sharing mechanisms to connect more people.