Going Once, Going Infinitely

Managing the airwaves is arguably the FCC's most important function. Nearly every commercial device that transmits a wireless signal on a radio frequency, from AM radios to satellites to 5G cell phones, must comply with our rules, from licensing to interference. The way the FCC manages and licenses the radio spectrum has changed dramatically since the agency's inception in 1934. And while today's spectrum auctions may seem logical and obvious to many, that wasn't always the case. How has spectrum management evolved over time and what has that meant for consumers and the development of technology in the U.S. and around the globe? Evan is joined by Evan Kwerel, Senior Economic Advisor in the FCC's Office of Economics and Analytics. (Disclaimer)