It’s not everyday that the head of the biggest communication regulatory body in the country tries to stand up for the little guy. When it happens, you should damn well pay attention. Today is just such a day. FCC chairman Kevin Martin wants to open the newly vacated 700MHz spectrum to the people, leaving it free of carrier control and allowing it to be used by any device, locked or unlocked, at any time. The 700MHz band would be free of carrier control, accessible by anyone with a compatible phone. The specifics aren’t clear, especially when it comes to provisioning and support, but the sentiment is certainly a good one. As Martin says, “Whoever wins this spectrum has to provide … truly open broadband network – one that will open the door to a lot of innovative services for consumers.” Nebulous? Yes. A step in the right direction? We certainly think so.
FCC chairman wants to change the wireless world
Updated Dec 19th, 2018 5:51PM EST
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Josh Karp followed his love of technology since a kid through to the present day. As a Special Correspondent at BGR, and part of the first editorial team, Josh covers press conferences, trade shows and other events around the world. An expert in all things mobile, Josh has more than eighteen years of experience covering the wireless industry.
