Gadgets That Act As Low-Power FM transmitters Set For Legalization In The UK

The UK may soon legalize gadgets which convert MP3 audio output into an FM radio signal. These signals are then picked up by devices such as car radios. Though widely available (and popular), low-power transmitters, such as the iTrip, are banned in Europe as signals coming from the transmitter can interfere with legal stations.

The ban is based on the the Wireless Telegraphy Act of 1949, which forbids the use of radio equipment without a license. But with communications regulator Ofcom holding a public consultation over the issue, these low-power FM transmitters are expected to become legal to use without license by 2007.

Liberal Democrat culture, media and sport spokesman Don Foster welcomes the proposed legalization, “I am delighted Ofcom have ended this ludicrous ban, based on 1940s legislation… which threatened two years imprisonment to music lovers using iTrips.”

Gadget magazine T3 deputy editor Jason Jenkins is also delighted with the proposition and said, “They are nifty little things and an easy way to listen to your iPod tunes in your car.”

Via BBC

The UK may soon legalize gadgets which convert MP3 audio output into an FM radio signal. These signals are then picked up by devices such as car radios. Though widely available (and popular), low-power transmitters, such as the iTrip, are banned in Europe as signals coming from the transmitter can interfere with legal stations.

The ban is based on the the Wireless Telegraphy Act of 1949, which forbids the use of radio equipment without a license. But with communications regulator Ofcom holding a public consultation over the issue, these low-power FM transmitters are expected to become legal to use without license by 2007.

Liberal Democrat culture, media and sport spokesman Don Foster welcomes the proposed legalization, “I am delighted Ofcom have ended this ludicrous ban, based on 1940s legislation… which threatened two years imprisonment to music lovers using iTrips.”

Gadget magazine T3 deputy editor Jason Jenkins is also delighted with the proposition and said, “They are nifty little things and an easy way to listen to your iPod tunes in your car.”

Via BBC