Radio, RIAA: mandatory FM radio in cell phones is the future

Radio stations are willing to fork over $100 million a year to music labels, but in return they want Congress to make FM receivers mandatory in portable devices. The labels think having an FM radio in every Droid and iPhone is a great idea, and both sides hope to go to Congress soon.

<a href='http://meincmagazine.com/tech-policy/news/2010/08/radio-riaa-mandatory-fm-radio-in-cell-phones-is-the-future.ars'>Read the whole story</a>

 

[pete_3]

NAB and RIAA,

You want to give consumers choice? Let's have Congress pass a law stop you forcing consumers to buy music they don't want on albums. Then we'll talk about radio.

 

[pete_3]

Why is it idiotic? Not counting the tired canard of "no one listens to FM".

Cramming another antenna into portable devices could be problematic, I suppose. Seem to recall it being an issue in early devices (like Treos) due to limitations in isolating the antennae or something.

Why would requiring manufacturers to pass out opera tickets with every mobile device purchased be idiotic? Not counting the tired canard of "no one goes to the opera".

Mobile device manufacturers should lobby Congress to pass a law to disband NAB and RIAA.