June 17, 2025
Tech News
President Donald Trump recently urged EchoStar Corp Chairman Charlie Ergen and FCC Chair Brendan Carr to negotiate regarding the company’s wireless spectrum licenses. Following the meeting, EchoStar shares surged in after-hours trading, highlighting the stock market’s optimism about a potential resolution.
EchoStar has been under scrutiny from the FCC amid concerns about its compliance with obligations for 5G service and the fate of its wireless spectrum licenses. This comes after DirecTV’s termination of an acquisition deal with EchoStar due to unresolved debt issues, raising more questions on the company’s viability as a wireless provider.
In parallel, beleaguered genetic testing firm 23andMe announced an agreement to sell to TTAM Research Institute, a nonprofit led by co-founder Anne Wojcicki. This follows 23andMe’s bankruptcy filing after a cyberattack last year and a lawsuit settlement, with its prior potential acquirer, Regeneron, unable to match TTAM’s unsolicited $305 million offer.
As part of the acquisition, TTAM affirmed the continuation of 23andMe’s privacy policies, allowing customers to delete their data or opt out of research. However, the deal is not without legal challenges, as a group of 28 state attorneys general filed a lawsuit opposing the asset sale of the company’s personal genetic information, signaling potential hurdles ahead.
Tech Explained
Spectrum – In telecommunications, the term “spectrum” refers to the range of electromagnetic frequencies utilized for transmitting data and communications. Wireless spectrum licenses are crucial for providers as they govern the rights to operate on specific frequencies for mobile and satellite services.
5G – This represents the fifth generation of mobile network technology, promising faster speeds, reduced latency, and the capability to connect a significantly higher number of devices. 5G is essential for enabling advancements in the Internet of Things and enhancing broadband services.
Cyberattack – A cyberattack is a deliberate exploitation of computer systems and networks, often leading to data breaches, system malfunctions, or theft of sensitive information. 23andMe faced severe repercussions from a cyberattack in 2023, contributing to its financial struggles.
Bankruptcy – Bankruptcy is a legal status for individuals or entities unable to repay their outstanding debts. The process allows for the reorganization of a debtors’ financial affairs, which in 23andMe’s case included acquiring a new owner through a bidding process.
Privacy Policy – A privacy policy outlines how an organization collects, uses, and protects users’ personal data. The continuing assurance of privacy for 23andMe’s customers by TTAM is integral in maintaining trust, especially after the company faced breaches related to data security.
