FCC Cautious To Interfere On 700MHz Interference

During an open meeting in Washington on March 21 2012, the FCC agreed to investigate new rules to ensure that mobile devices for use on the 700MHz band are interoperable on the networks of different carriers. This follows allegations that the US' largest carriers, Verizon and AT&T, are pressurising manufacturers to produce devices, handsets, chips and network equipment that are only compatible on Verizon and AT&T spectrum. Further, the FCC also agreed to consider reassigning the 2GHz spectrum, which would allow DISH to launch an LTE network. BMI believes these developments signal a move towards a more competitive environment in the US LTE market. However, the FCC is a long way from formulating policy on the issue, and the cautious approach taken towards the interference problem may spur inaction.

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