The U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is seeking to modify its equipment authorization rules to help speed the introduction and deployment of new and innovative technologies.
In a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking issued in early December, the Commission seeks comment on the option to allow limited marketing and sale of certain wireless devices to consumers prior to the completion of the equipment authorization process. The Commission is also seeking comment on allowing limited pre-authorization importation of radiofrequency devices into the U.S. for certain pre-sale activities, such as packing and shipping devices to retail locations, and installing software to demonstrate specific features and capabilities.
If adopted, both changes would prohibit providing consumers with direct access to these devices prior to the completion of the equipment authorization process.
Read the text of the FCC’s NPRM on its efforts to expedite the authorization of equipment.
Comments on the NPRM are due by mid-January 2020 and can be filed through the FCC’s electronic comment filing system (reference Docket No. 20-382).
