Personal FM transmitters set to become legal
Posted by Chris Leckness on 07/15/06 in Music Players
Another step toward common sense….
Gadgets which transmit MP3 players’ output so they can be heard on FM radios may become legal in the UK. Communications regulator Ofcom is holding a public consultation over the issue until September.
Using iTrips and other "low-power FM transmitters" is banned in Europe [ yet widly used ] as their low-power transmissions can, in theory, interfere with legal stations. The devices and other similar MP3 player accessories are popular abroad and widely available online.
The Wireless Telegraphy Act of 1949 forbids the use of radio equipment without a licence or an exemption. But the gadgets are now expected to become legal to use - without a license - by 2007.
This decision… will not only regulate a booming black market and provide the country with valuable tax revenue, but also enable the iPod generation to enjoy their music using the latest gadgets
Liberal Democrat culture, media and sport spokesman Don Foster said: "I am delighted Ofcom have ended this ludicrous ban, based on 1940s legislation… which threatened two years imprisonment to music lovers using iTrips. This decision… will not only regulate a booming black market and provide the country with valuable tax revenue, but also enable the iPod generation to enjoy their music using the latest gadgets."
Written by Chris Leckness · Filed Under Music Players
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