The U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is moving to supply additional spectrum to expand direct-to-device (D2D) services that connect smartphones and satellites directly.

CNBC and other outlets reported on Monday that the FCC will vote on Oct. 29 on a plan to auction 25 MHz of key spectrum for D2D. The plan covers the 1675-1695 MHz and 2020-2025 MHz bands. The FCC will also discuss a plan to use an additional 482 MHz for space-based supplemental coverage (SCS) that uses satellites to address mobile coverage dead zones, along with modernising related rules. Neither step immediately assigns spectrum, but is a process for auctions and rulemaking.

The move is expected to bolster D2D competition among satellite communications operators such as SpaceX and Amazon. Amazon applied to the FCC in July for a low-Earth orbit satellite constellation of up to 5,105 satellites that would connect directly to smartphones. It plans to begin deployment from 2028 and provide voice, messaging and data communications in areas beyond the reach of terrestrial mobile networks.

Amazon earlier agreed in April to acquire Globalstar. It aims to use Globalstar's mobile-satellite service (MSS) spectrum and satellite infrastructure for Amazon Leo's D2D business.

SpaceX is also stepping up efforts. The FCC approved on Monday, with some conditions, a new D2D satellite system of 15,000 satellites sought by SpaceX. The constellation will use spectrum secured by SpaceX from EchoStar to provide direct smartphone connectivity services in the United States.

Separately, the FCC will vote on a plan to lift restrictions that have blocked drone operations in the 800 MHz cellular band. FCC Commissioner Brendan Carr (브렌던 카) said, "Expanding D2D will reduce mobile coverage dead zones and promote spectrum use in next-generation satellite and drone industries."