ARLINGTON, VA – January 29, 2026 – The following statement is attributed to Gary Shapiro, Executive Chair and CEO, Consumer Technology Association (CTA)® on the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) vote to expand unlicensed operations in the 6 GHz Band: 

“The FCC’s vote to expand unlicensed operations in the 6 GHz band is a major win for American innovation, and we thank Chairman Carr for his leadership advancing this pro-innovation policy. Unlicensed spectrum is the foundation for transformative technologies like Wi-Fi, and opening more of the 6 GHz band will supercharge the next wave of innovation, including augmented reality, virtual reality, and other game-changing applications. This future-focused move puts critical spectrum into the hands of innovators, entrepreneurs, and consumers, delivering faster, more reliable wireless connectivity. With American companies leading the world in Wi-Fi development, expanding unlicensed spectrum helps secure U.S. competitiveness and fuel continued economic growth.” 

About Consumer Technology Association (CTA)®:

As North America’s largest technology trade association, CTA is the tech sector. Our members are the world’s leading innovators – from startups to global brands – helping support more than 18 million American jobs. CTA owns and produces CES® – the most powerful tech event in the world. Find us at CTA.tech. Follow us @CTAtech.