The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) aims to set a standard time frame for consumers to unlock their cell phones, enabling them to switch carriers more easily.
On Thursday, July 18, the agency unanimously voted to issue a notice of proposed rulemaking, which would require mobile service providers to unlock customers’ phones within 60 days of activation. This proposal marks the beginning of a public comment period, followed by a lengthy process of drafting and revising the rule. The FCC anticipates that this move will enhance consumer choice and foster competition among mobile service providers.
Current Carrier Unlocking Policies
Currently, waiting periods and unlocking requirements differ between carriers, causing confusion among customers. For instance, AT&T allows customers to unlock their phones within 60 days of activation if they have paid off their phone or completed their payment plan, while Boost Mobile unlocks phones once the payments are completed.
The FCC is seeking feedback on whether the proposed rule should apply to both existing and future service contracts. Additionally, it is considering the potential impact on smaller mobile service providers and resellers if more phones become available on the secondary market.
Other FCC Initiatives
In addition to the proposed rule on phone unlocking, the FCC voted on several other initiatives during its July open meeting.
One key decision was the approval of final rules permitting schools and libraries to use federal E-Rate funds to loan Wi-Fi hotspots to students, school staff, and library patrons. This initiative is part of Chair Jessica Rosenworcel’s efforts to close the digital divide by expanding the E-Rate program, which provides discounts on internet and telecommunications services to schools and libraries.
Moreover, the FCC approved rules to reduce the cost of jail calls and eliminate certain fees that increase prices for incarcerated individuals trying to contact their families. The new rules cap the price per minute of audio calls at 6 cents in prisons and 7 cents in medium-sized jails, down from the previous 14 cents and 21 cents, respectively. The rules also set video call rate caps ranging from 11 to 25 cents, depending on the type or size of the facility.
Featured Image courtesy of Freepik
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