FCC's Martin: Not Time for More Wireless Regulations

LAS VEGAS -(Dow Jones)- Because of the wireless industry's move toward more open networks, it is premature to adopt more regulatory requirements, said Kevin Martin, chairman of the Federal Communications Commission.

"I believe putting choices in the hands of the consumer will spur the next wave of broadband wireless innovation," Martin said Tuesday at a keynote speech at the CTIA Wireless trade show here.

Martin also said he is a circulating an order to dismiss a request by Skype to open up cellular networks. The move drew applause from the audience.

Skype last month requested cellphone carriers to open up their network so its Internet phone service application can run on all handsets.

Verizon Wireless has recently said it would open its network to any device or program. Sprint Nextel and Deutsche Telekom's T-Mobile USA are participating in the Open Handset Alliance. AT&T posted its style guide to developing programs on its Web site.

-By Roger Cheng, Dow Jones Newswires; 201-938-2020; roger.cheng@dowjones.com

(END) Dow Jones Newswires

Posted to the site on 1st April 2008