In another controversial move, the FCC has approved by a 3-2 vote the adoption of the ATSC 3.0 standard for broadcast TV, known as Next Gen TV. This IP-based standard
Continue Reading FCC Adopts Next Gen TV: Maybe Not a Good Thing
Three Takeaways from the Disney/Netflix Split
The media community has been buzzing with the news that Disney plans to launch its own digital subscription channel for movies and series content. Its current license deal with Netflix
Continue Reading Three Takeaways from the Disney/Netflix Split
Wheeler Resignation May Spell Demise of Set-Top Box Deregulation
FCC Chair Tom Wheeler has announced his resignation effective upon Donald Trump’s inauguration. The President-elect has not yet announced his choice to replace Wheeler, but it’s a safe bet that
Continue Reading Wheeler Resignation May Spell Demise of Set-Top Box Deregulation
Set-Top Box Deregulation: The Gloves Come Off
The FCC proposal to deregulate cable and satellite television set-top boxes is facing heavy headwinds as powerful interests line up in opposition. The current proposal is itself a compromise to
Continue Reading Set-Top Box Deregulation: The Gloves Come Off
Set-Top Box Update: Flame Wars
The battle lines are hardening in the controversy over the FCC’s proposal to deregulate cable set-top boxes.
The US
Copyright Office recently weighed in against the proposal, on the grounds
Continue Reading Set-Top Box Update: Flame Wars
McConnell to FCC: Hands Off My Cable Box
Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell has called on FCC Chair Tom Wheeler to reconsider his proposal to unlock cable and satellite set-top boxes
. McConnell cited concerns over copyright, consumer
Continue Reading McConnell to FCC: Hands Off My Cable Box
Set-Top Box Deregulation: The Storm Continues
I’ve blogged previously on the push by FCC chair Tom Wheeler to compel cable and satellite provid
ers to permit consumers to use third-party set top boxes. Despite opposition from
Continue Reading Set-Top Box Deregulation: The Storm Continues
Set-Top Box Deregulation: Latest Developments
In January the FCC proposed rules to establish open standards for set-top boxes. The notice and comment period on those rules is nearing its end. As it is likely that
Continue Reading Set-Top Box Deregulation: Latest Developments
Screening Room Battle Lines Solidify
Controversy over The Screening Room is evolving day by day as industry players weigh in on one side or another. Today director Roland Emmerich (Independence Day) joined the naysayers.
Continue Reading Screening Room Battle Lines Solidify
Deregulation of Set-Top Boxes: Bad for Minorities?
The FCC’s announced intention to deregulate cable set-top boxes has sparked a debate on the effect such a change might have on programs targeting minority groups.
Continue Reading Deregulation of Set-Top Boxes: Bad for Minorities?