In the midst of the chaotic and divisive political landscape that has come to define the first term of President Donald Trump, there is one policy that stands out as a beacon of hope for economic growth and innovation. Surprisingly, it is a policy that has not received much attention or recognition, despite its potential to drive a $2 trillion economic engine. This policy is none other than the promotion of unlicensed spectrum for Wi-Fi.
Unlicensed spectrum refers to the airwaves that are not owned or controlled by any particular company or government agency. It is a vital resource for wireless communication and has been responsible for the widespread adoption of Wi-Fi technology, which has revolutionized the way we connect and communicate. And under the Trump administration, this resource has been given a boost that could lead to unprecedented economic growth.
Since taking office, President Trump has made it a priority to free up more unlicensed spectrum for Wi-Fi use. This effort has been spearheaded by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) under the leadership of Chairman Ajit Pai, who has been a strong advocate for unlicensed spectrum and its potential to drive innovation and economic growth.
One of the major actions taken by the FCC under Chairman Pai was the approval of new rules in 2018 that opened up the 6 GHz band for unlicensed use. This decision was a game-changer for Wi-Fi technology, as it provided a significant increase in spectrum availability and allowed for faster and more reliable connections. It also paved the way for the development of new technologies such as Wi-Fi 6, which promises to deliver faster speeds, lower latency, and increased capacity.
In addition to the 6 GHz band, the FCC has also proposed opening up the 5.9 GHz band for unlicensed use. This band was previously reserved for vehicle-to-vehicle communication, but with the rise of connected cars and the potential for Wi-Fi to improve safety and efficiency on the road, the FCC’s proposal has the potential to unlock even more spectrum for Wi-Fi use.
So, why is this policy so important and how could it lead to a $2 trillion economic engine? The answer lies in the widespread adoption and utilization of Wi-Fi technology. Wi-Fi has become an integral part of our daily lives, from connecting our devices at home and in the workplace to powering smart cities and the Internet of Things (IoT). It has also become a critical tool for businesses, with industries such as healthcare, education, and transportation relying on Wi-Fi for their operations.
By promoting unlicensed spectrum, the Trump administration is not only ensuring that there is enough spectrum to meet the growing demand for Wi-Fi, but also encouraging innovation and competition in the wireless market. This, in turn, can lead to the development of new technologies and services, creating new jobs and boosting the economy.
But the benefits of this policy go beyond just economic growth. Wi-Fi has also been a lifeline for many during the COVID-19 pandemic, allowing for remote work, distance learning, and virtual communication. With more unlicensed spectrum available for Wi-Fi, these essential services can continue to thrive and bridge the digital divide, ensuring that everyone has access to reliable and affordable internet connectivity.
Despite its potential and proven success, the promotion of unlicensed spectrum for Wi-Fi has not received much attention in the media. Instead, the focus has been on other controversial policies and actions of the Trump administration. But as we move towards a post-pandemic world and the economy begins to recover, it is important to recognize and applaud policies that have the potential to drive growth and innovation.
In conclusion, the promotion of unlicensed spectrum for Wi-Fi by the Trump administration is undoubtedly the most pro-growth policy of his first term that you may have never heard of. By freeing up more spectrum for Wi-Fi, this policy has the potential to fuel a $2 trillion economic engine, spur innovation, and bridge the digital divide. As we look towards the future, let us not underestimate the power of unlicensed spectrum and the positive impact it can have on our economy and society.
