FCC to Scrutinize Exclusive Wireless Contracts.

[elleng]

The Federal Communications Commission will launch a review of exclusive partnerships between cellphone makers and wireless service carriers, such as the one between Apple and AT&T for the iPhone, to see if the deals harm consumers and hamper competition, interim Chairman Michael J. Copps said yesterday.

Speaking at a conference in Washington on broadband Internet yesterday, Copps said the FCC would open a proceeding that would review the industry's practice. He said he has instructed the agency's bureau on competition to investigate.

"The commission as the expert agency should determine whether some of these arrangements adversely restrict consumer choice or harm the development of innovative devices, and it should take appropriate action if it finds harm," Copps said.


http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/06/18/AR2009061803814.html?hpid=sec-tech

[FrenchieCat]

1. Good...but the FCC needs to look into the cable wiring between FOX News and the GOP HQ!

[Merlot]

2. Yes, I am terribly "harmed" because I can't use an iPhone with my cell plan

Sheesh! Really, I'm more harmed by the fact that my cell plan made me sign a 2 year contract to get a new phone. That sucks. So if I can no longer afford the phone, I will have to pay $200 to have it disconnected. THAT is harmful.