The Samsung Galaxy S8 Active will be Sammy's first phone to support T-Mobile's new 600MHz Band?

Back in April, T-Mobile spent nearly $8 billion to win 31MHz of 600MHz low-frequency spectrum that was part of an FCC auction. Also known as Band 71, the low frequency airwaves travel farther and penetrate buildings better than higher frequency spectrum. Only one handset, the LG V30, currently is available with support for Band 71. Now, FCC documents reveal which handset will be the first from Samsung to work with the 600MHz spectrum.

A new version of the Samsung Galaxy S8 Active (SM-G892U) has been certified by the FCC. This is the rugged version of the Samsung Galaxy S8, better able to withstand "the active" lifestyle. Traditionally, the Active has been an AT&T exclusive, although this year it was announced that the device would be available from other carriers.

T-Mobile has yet to announce that the Galaxy S8 Active is on the way, but considering that the FCC certification shows that the new version of the Galaxy S8 Active is compatible with Bands 66 and 71 (the latter being a T-Mobile exclusive in the states), it seems a sure thing to say that the Samsung Galaxy S8 Active will be the first Samsung branded handset offered by T-Mobile, compatible with the 600MHz spectrum that the carrier spent so much money for.

Besides the T-Mobile version of the Galaxy S8 Active, which was first rumored last month, an unlocked model could eventually hit the U.S. The Wi-Fi Alliance certified such a version of the phone last month.

source: FCC via Phonescoop