The FCC has announced proposed rules that would require mobile service providers to unlock customers’ mobile phones within 60 days of activation. Mobile phone locks ensure a device may only be used on the networks of certain service providers. Currently, the FCC does not uniformly require mobile service providers to unlock customers’ phones, and many different unlocking policies exist in the marketplace. Some policies limit customers’ ability to switch providers, and the variety of policies can make it difficult for customers to easily determine switching requirements. The proposed rules would establish a baseline unlocking requirement for all mobile service providers, and are intended to reduce customer confusion, enhance consumer choice, and increase provider competition.
The FCC seeks comment on whether the proposed rules should apply to existing as well as future contracts, if adopted. Additionally, the FCC requests comment on potential market impacts of the rules, including the effect on service providers’ incentives, and the possible benefits to smaller providers, new entrants, and resellers.
