The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is considering a new rule that would make it significantly easier for consumers to unlock their phones from their carriers. The proposed rule mandates that all devices must be unlockable just 60 days after purchase. This move aims to offer consistency and transparency: a simple, national rule from regulators setting a reasonable limit on how and whether carriers can lock down devices.
Mobile phones purchased from a carrier are generally locked to that carrier until either the contract is up or the phone is paid off. Despite improvements to the process over the years, it still isn’t quite clear to all consumers when and how they can unlock their phone and take it to the carrier (or country) of their choice. Unlocking a phone doesn’t free someone from needing to pay off the device — they can just use it on other networks if they want.
FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel announced the Notice of Proposed Rulemaking, or NPRM, in a press release. She stated, “When you buy a phone, you should have the freedom to decide when to change service to the carrier you want and not have the device you own stuck by practices that prevent you from making that choice.”
The FCC will vote on July 18 as to whether to move forward with the idea by seeking comment on the proposed requirement. The agency is also seeking input as to whether its proposed rule should apply to existing as well as future wireless contracts, along with the potential impact on the secondary phone market. This proposed rule has sparked discussions about the ethical use of business profits and the role of corporations in addressing global issues like climate change.
Read more: techcrunch.com
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