FCC votes IP Transition tests to ensure consumer services

FCC commissioners unanimously authorized “a broad set of voluntary experiments meant to ensure that the nation’s communications networks continue to provide the services consumers want and need in this era of historic technological transformations.” The trials include the transition from plain old telephone service delivered over copper lines to services using Internet Protocols (IP) transmitted over cable, fiber, or wireless networks.

In a news release, the commissioners urged a focus on “enduring values” that must be preserved – and even improved – during the transition. These are:

·       Public safety communications must be available no matter the technology
·       All Americans must have access to affordable communications services
·       Competition in the marketplace provides choice for consumers and businesses
·       Consumer protection is paramount   

The tests will include:  service-based experiments; targeted experiments and cooperative research which will include focus on rural areas and people with disabilities; and, data improvement, such as next-generation 911 systems.

Carriers are invited to submit proposals for specific trials to the FCC, with the first ones due Feb. 20. The FCC will make the specific proposals available for public comment until March 31, with a final decision at the FCC's May meeting.

As the FCC emphatically said, “The data gathered in these experiments will ensure that the ongoing public dialogue about technology transitions is based on solid facts and data. This discussion will guide the FCC as it makes complex legal and policy choices that advance and accelerate the technology transitions while ensuring that consumers and the enduring values are not adversely affected.”

Speed Matters urges that the FCC adhere to these promises and keep consumers, workers and public safety uppermost.

FCC OKs Voluntary Experiments Testing Impact Of Technology Transitions (FCC news release, Jan. 30, 2014)