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Direct to Device licensing
There have been a number of activities, both in New Zealand and around the world, on Direct to Device (mobile data from satellites) rules.
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) in the United States of America has developed specific direct-to-device rules. These US-specific rules apply to those who own and control satellites, along with Earth-based users of spectrum such as phone companies in the United States.
The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) have also published their Direct-to-Device approach and guidelines.
Regulatory guide: Operation of an IMT satellite direct-to-mobile service(external link) — ACMA
Direct to Device in New Zealand
Direct to Device in existing mobile bands within management rights
These management rights are typically (but not always) used by mobile network operators like Spark, OneNZ, and 2degrees for cellular operations.
Licencing
- Management right holders may create their own licences that authorise Direct to Device (Earth-to-space) transmissions within the rights. Licences must abide with the conditions of their management rights.
- Management right holders need to create dedicated licences for mobile-handset Earth-to-space transmissions. This licence contains specific details of the satellite that is being communicated with, such as the ITU satellite name and notice ID.
- Management right holders may also create a space-to-earth licence if they wish to have receive protection.
Regulatory regime
- MBIE informed mobile network operators about the regulatory regime in October 2023.
- Mobile network operators must work together to manage any potential interference issues.
- RSM expects there to be co-ordination and cooperation with adjacent parties to prevent any potential interference issues before they arise.
- RSM has informed mobile network operator management right holders of the existing New Zealand regulatory regime and RSM’s approach for Direct to Device services.
RSM letter to mobile network operators [PDF, 198 KB]
Direct to Device in existing mobile satellite service frequency bands
Direct to Device in existing mobile satellite service frequency bands is treated as mobile earth stations within the mobile satellite service.
Direct to Device may be permitted if it is covered by the General User Radio Licence for Satellite Service, the General User Radio Licence for Aeronautical Purposes, or the General User Radio Licence for Maritime Purposes.
See the General User Radio Licence (GURL) notices for more information.
General User Radio Licence (GURL) notices
The equipment must also meet supplier requirements and have an applicable standard in the Radio Standards notice.
Compliance information for suppliers
Product compliance gazette notices
Direct to Device is still developing
RSM will continue to monitor how Direct to Device develops in New Zealand and around the world, and may undertake future regulatory work in this area if needed.
RSM notes that there are ongoing studies and work under agenda items for the World Radiocommunications Conference 2027 related to Direct to Device.