The FCC’s proposal to “unlock the box” had a variety of consumer groups offering applause in support of the proposal last week. INCOMPAS, the Internet and competitive networks association, was among those filing comments with the FCC in the set-top box proceeding.
“Markets, not monopolies, are the key to innovation and lower prices. Unlocking the set-top box will give consumers more choice, inject competition into a stagnant market and create new opportunities for streaming services and content creators,” Chip Pickering, CEO at INCOMPAS, says. “Action by the FCC to unlock the set-top box will create new companies, more jobs and an entire new industry for video services. It’s an economic win for consumers and business.”
INCOMPAS maintains in a statement that the FCC has the legal authority, consistent with bi-partisan Congressional mandate. That’s despite claims by the National Cable and Telecommunications Association’s announcement last week to the contrary.
Additionally, INCOMPAS says that editorial boards across the country support unlocking the set-top box, including USA Today, New York Times, Chicago Tribune, LA Times, Boston Globe, Bloomberg and others.
The Consumer Video Choice Coalition also submitted comments to the Commission in support of the FCC set-top box NPRM saying that it would allow for numerous benefits, including new innovations that will enhance viewing experiences and reduced consumer costs. The group also pointed to endorsements from the Obama administration, industry experts, minority programmers, content creators and editorial boards from major news sources. CVCC also produced a YouTube video highlighting its views.
For information on groups that filed in opposition to the NPRM last week, see the article here.
Filed Under: Industry regulations