Rural Operators Seek Ban on Exclusive Handset Deals
The USA telecoms trade body, the Rural Cellular Association (RCA), a group of more than 80 small and rural wireless providers, has filed a petition with the telecoms regulator, the FCC to investigate and, as necessary, adopt rules to prohibit exclusivity arrangements between wireless carriers and cell phone manufacturers. The petition asks the FCC to prohibit, what it says are unfair arrangements between mobile network operators and mobile phone manufactures - such as the deal between Apple and AT&T for the iPhone handset.
The RCA says such deals "stifle consumer choice, decrease competition and violate the Communications Act."
"It is important that all Americans have equal access to the latest technology, including wireless devices, regardless of where they live or which carrier provides the service," said David Nace, counsel to RCA. "RCA is standing up for consumer's rights and putting an end to exclusivity arrangements that create another 'digital divide' between urban and rural America."
The petition also contends that consumers who are able to purchase and use these popular phones are often forced to pay a premium price for their desired handset and required to change carriers.
Posted to the site on 22nd May 2008
