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FCC UWB draft explores new sensing rules

An FCC public draft proposes modernizing Part 15 UWB rules and seeks comment on a possible AI-based sensing class. Health-monitoring developers should assess device classification, emissions and measurement methods under the current framework.

By MedTech Current

Published

A public draft for Part 15 UWB modernization

On September 9, 2026, the FCC released the public draft “Unleashing the Power of Unlicensed Ultra-Wideband Devices,” an NPRM in ET Docket 26-245, numbered FCC-CIRC2609-03. The September 29 Federal Register meeting notice schedules its consideration for September 30. At this article’s verification cutoff, it remains a public draft for consideration.

The draft proposes updated transmitter definitions and measurement procedures to accommodate modern modulation methods. It also examines technical parameters and use restrictions and proposes removing advance written coordination for imaging systems.

The text mentions AI-enhanced non-invasive health monitoring and seeks comment on whether to establish a separate class for AI-based sensing, including definitions and technical conditions. That class and its parameters are not settled. The draft does not authorize new operating bands or emission limits.

Review the RF design before revising the certification plan

  • Document operating bands, bandwidth, modulation, average and peak emissions, duty cycle, antenna directivity and indoor or outdoor use, then compare them with current device categories and measurement methods.
  • Ask the RF compliance laboratory whether test configurations represent normal operation, and record existing rule or waiver constraints. Proposed values and questions are assessment inputs rather than certification criteria.
  • Track the post-meeting text and Federal Register publication. The draft expresses comment deadlines as intervals after publication; specific dates require confirmation in the formal notice.

For radar-based heart-rate and respiration monitoring, this design inventory will help identify whether later changes affect testing or the certification pathway.

Sources

  1. Primary official sourceUnleashing the Power of Unlicensed Ultra-Wideband Devices — FCC Fact Sheet and Public DraftFederal Communications Commission
  2. Supporting sourceSunshine Act; Open Commission Meeting Wednesday, September 30, 2026Federal Communications Commission