FCC Proposed Modernization of Ultra-Wideband (UWB) Rules
On October 1, 2026, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) released Notice of Proposed Rulemaking FCC 26-66 concerning the modernization of rules for Ultra-Wideband (UWB) technology.
The proposal considers changes to the current regulatory framework with the aim of reducing reliance on individual waivers while maintaining protection for incumbent radio services.
The NPRM addresses three main areas:
A. Modernizing Technical Rules and Requirements
Proposed areas of review include:
Updating the definition of UWB transmitters
Revising measurement procedures
Clarifying the scope of permitted UWB use and requirements for ground penetrating radars
Re-evaluating advance written coordination requirements for specific operations
B. Creation of New UWB Device Categories
The FCC is considering additional device categories, including:
Location-Sensing Devices: A dedicated category for high-precision location-sensing applications
AI-Enabled Sensing: A potential category for UWB sensing technologies using artificial intelligence
C. Comprehensive Regulatory Framework Review
The NPRM also considers:
Reviewing eligibility requirements and emission limits
Revising marketing, labeling, and operational requirements
Addressing the "Ten Second" rule for manual or remote-controlled switches
Consolidating or removing redundant regulatory provisions
The review is intended to determine whether existing technical, operational, and labeling requirements remain appropriate for current UWB applications and whether the waiver-based approach can be reduced.
The public comment period is open for 30 days following publication of the NPRM in the Federal Register.
Source: https://www.fcc.gov/document/fcc-proposes-modernization-ultra-wideband-technology-rules-0