An attendee is seen using a cutting-edge Meta Platforms Inc. Quest 3 virtual reality (VR) headset at an event in San Francisco, California. This event took place on September 18, 2023.
Image source: David Paul Morris | Bloomberg | Getty Images
In a move that could revolutionize augmented and virtual reality wearables, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has unanimously agreed to open the 6 GHz band for specific low-power devices, including wearable technology.
By opening this band, the FCC anticipates the development of innovative applications such as augmented and virtual reality, wearable technologies, healthcare advancements, and enhanced learning opportunities, along with new entertainment experiences.
Meta Platforms Inc. welcomed this decision, expressing its belief that the opening of the 6 GHz band is a crucial step towards realizing its vision for smart glasses. This development means that future iterations of these devices could possess enhanced functionalities, even when used outside the home or in areas with weak Wi-Fi signals.
Google’s hardware group, Pixel, emphasized the importance of the 6 GHz band for wireless connectivity and applauded the FCC’s vote, highlighting the positive impact it will have on Pixel users and American consumers.
According to Pixel, this new band availability will enable high-speed peer-to-peer Wi-Fi communication, supporting multiplayer games and photo-sharing apps. Additionally, Android developers can use peer-to-peer connection to facilitate direct device communication without the need for an intermediate access point.
Apple also expressed support for the FCC vote, considering it a positive step forward. During the FCC’s request for comments on the opening of the 6 GHz band in 2020, Apple, Broadcom, Meta, and Google actively advocated for this proposal. They asserted that allowing very low power (VLP) devices, including AR and VR tools, headphones, and game controllers, access to the 6 GHz band would enhance mobility and freedom of operation outside the home.
In their written comment, these companies highlighted the potential of the 6 GHz band to support critical use cases such as life-saving surgery training, aiding visually impaired individuals, and providing immersive experiences at sporting events. They cautioned that the lack of portable and outdoor use of AR/VR glasses would significantly limit their utility.
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