Broadcasters have long been pushing cell carriers to activate FM radio chips in handheld devices and yesterday they got an extra push from the brass at the FCC. During the FCC’s Open Commission Meeting discussion of a notice of proposed rulemaking regarding improving the effectiveness of wireless emergency alerts, Commissioner Jessica Rosenworcel spoke favorably about radio-enabled mobile devices and their potential for disseminating information during emergencies.
“I also hope progress continues on other fronts. Because we can strengthen our security even further by having active FM chips in our Smartphones,” Rosenworcel said. “There are market developments right now that are making these chips more available and we should encourage these industry discussions to continue.” The statement was seen as heaven-sent by the broadcast lobby.
“NAB salutes Commissioner Rosenworcel for her comments. We look forward to voluntary activation of radio chips in all Smartphones,” responded NAB spokesman Dennis Wharton.
Wharton quickly pointed out that carriers AT&T and T-Mobile have recently announced they would activate FM radio chips in Android devices, something Sprint began in 2013. And there is plenty of precedent for doing it. FEMA Administrator Craig Fugate, House Subcommittee on Communications and Technology member Greg Walden (R-OR), Homeland Security Committee Ranking Member Bennie Thompson (D-MS) and Transportation Committee Ranking Member Peter DeFazio (D-OR), Rep. Andre Carson (D-IN), and members of the Congressional Black Caucus have all previously voiced support for the activation of radio chips in Smartphones.
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