What does "belongs to the people" mean in this context? Should Starbuck not be able to put up Wifi access points? Only private users? Belongs to the people sounds a lot more like ham radio really.
It means that it's a commons. You, I or Starbucks doesn't need a lobbyist to build, buy, or operate a device on unlicensed spectrum that complies with a few FCC rules. One of the key rules is that you cannot interfere with others.
Licensed telcos shouldn't be able to stomp on the commons because of their inability to manage the spectrum they have. If Verizon & AT&T lack capacity to deliver, they can raise the prices, subsidize replacement of older devices that use more spectrum, or make capital investments in high-density areas.
>The primary
operating condition for unlicensed devices is that the operator must accept whatever interference is
received and must correct whatever interference it causes. Should harmful interference occur, the
operator is required to immediately correct the interference problem or cease operation.
Practically wifi at 2.4 GHz is a mess from the density of wifi which is why that isn't even considered. 5 GHz isn't yet but will be soon enough.
It's the commons, they're not operating outside of the rules unless they're broadcasting beyond the specifications: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/U-NII
It means there should be roughly equal ability to access it among people. Someone should not be able to benefit from using the spectrum in a way that actively degrades other people's ability to use it.
