FCC to Examine Handset Exclusivity Deals with Carriers

Washington, DC -- The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) said that it will launch formal proceedings to examine the exclusive deals made between cell phone makers and wireless network operators. Some have argued that the deals -- such as those between AT&T and Apple's iPhone, and Sprint and Palm's Pre -- go too far in limiting the choices of consumers. The FCC said that its proceeding, which follows a Senate subcommittee hearing last week, will attempt to "determine whether some of these arrangements adversely restrict consumer choice or harm the development of innovative devices." "We must ensure that consumers are able to reap the benefits that a robust and innovative competitive marketplace can bestow," said Michael Copps, the FCC's acting chairman.
http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/DOC-291492A1.pdf (PDF)