FCC's Wheeler On FM Chips In Cell Phones: Issue 'Resolving Itself In Marketplace'

Wheeler

In letters to Reps. BENNIE THOMPSON (D-MS) and PETER DEFAZIO (D-OR), FCC Chairman TOM WHEELER indicated a desire to let the market decide the fate of FM chips in cell phones rather than mandate the activation of the devices.

WHEELER praised the chips' capability, saying that the capability of delivering emergency alerts is "essential so that Americans can take appropriate action to protect their families and themselves" but noted that "Commission regulations do not prohibit activated FM chips in wireless handsets" and that while he agrees on the benefits of the chips, "The question, however, is whether activation of these chips should be mandated or based on consumer choice. At this point, it appears as though the issue may be resolving itself in the marketplace, which we will continue to monitor for further developments."

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