News
Rural carriers seeking ban on mobile exclusivity deals
The Rural Cellular Association plans to file a petition with the FCC calling for an investigation into exclusivity deals used by large wireless providers to secure rights to carry certain cellular phones. According to the Wall Street Journal, the group represents about 80 small and rural wireless companies, most with fewer than 500,000 customers. Using the iPhone as an example, the complaint states that most Vermont residents, as well as those in rural areas of 15 other states, can’t use Apple’s handset because AT&T offers only roaming coverage in those areas, and other carriers which do offer service can’t sell the iPhone. CITA spokesperson Joseph Farren argues that “When you look at the number of handsets available in the U.S. compared to Europe we’re far ahead,” adding that since consumers have so many choices, there is no need for an FCC ban on exclusive deals. [via CNET]
Comments
If you have a comment, news tip, advertising inquiry, or coverage request, a question about iPods or accessories, or if you sell or market iPod products or services, read iLounge's Comments + Questions policies before posting, and fully identify yourself if you do. We will delete comments containing advertising, astroturfing, trolling, personal attacks, offensive language, or other objectionable content, then ban and/or publicly identify violators.
Recent News
- Apple launches Reserve and Pick Up retail service
- Apple patent points to simplified data sharing
- iPodweek coming shortly, still time to register
- Apple rolling out updated iTunes LP/Extras files
- Apple seeking new iPhone security manager
- Vers launches open-front Shellcases for iPod, iPhone
- iPhone developer accused of stealing phone numbers
- Quirky intros Beamer case for iPhone 3G, 3GS
- Apple’s Jobs named ‘CEO of the decade’
- Intel responds on iPhone sync issues
Recent Reviews
- Elexa Consumer Products iBlink
- Bose SoundDock 10
- Shure SE115m+ Sound Isolating Headset
- Apple Remote (2009)
- Kensington Travel Battery Pack and Charger for iPhone
- Tapulous Metallica Revenge
- Electronic Arts NBA Live by EA Sports
- Edifier iF500 Luna5 Encore
- Griffin iTrip for iPod + iPhone With iTrip Controller App
- XtremeMac Luna Voyager
Recent Articles
- iPhone Gems: Asphalt 5 and Doom Classic
- Ask iLounge 10-30-09
- Instant Expert: Secrets & Features of Apple TV 3.0
- Ask iLounge 10-23-09
- iPhone Gems: Copy Cat, Derek Jeter Baseball, I Am T-Pain, MotionX GPS Drive, Pang + Real Racing GTI
- iPhone Gems: 2XL ATV Offroad, Adrenaline Golf Online + Iron Fist Boxing 3rd Strike
- iPhone Gems: BombLink, Rock Band + Tap Tap Revenge 3
- Ask iLounge 10-16-09
- iPhone Gems: Global Eater, NPR News, Pocket Tunes Radio, scanR + vTuner Radio
- iPhone Gems: Itsy Bitsy Spider and Little Red Hen Childrens’ Books

1
Since when has having the ability to own and use an iPhone an inalienable right? They can’t go to Starbucks either, so maybe they should petition the Better Business Bureau to make Starbucks put a location in the boonies too?!
Anyway, Apple already helped those people that feel like they need an iPhone but don’t want to switch carriers for one reason or another…it’s called the iPod touch.
Posted by TosaDeac on May 21, 2008 at 11:11 AM (PDT)