The internet TV industry in the USA was last week left to begin pondering how their potential futures might play out for better or worse, after the nation’s ‘Federal Communications Commission’ (FCC) have revealed that they are considering a new structure in which they would begin regulating internet TV services.
The new plans being… planned would see online broadcasting become placed on the same level as regular cable TV and satellite TV services.
Though the headline might initially worry the likes of Netflix and YouTube who have made their fame primarily through providing a service not regulated by the FCC, they will be pleased to hear the move is one to have the organisation cover subscription TV-style services rather than all internet video.
And for those cable-style multi-channel providers, such as Dish Network, Sony, and Verizon, the deal will probably be considered a beneficial one, with the internet services then on a level playing field when it comes to formerly prohibitive regulations such as those stopping the questionable Aereo service from operating as they would have liked, and in turn for content rights acquisition, with only tradition and quality of internet service being major stumbling blocks in their causes now.
FCC Chairman Tom Wheeler had confirmed that there are ideas in progress towards an official vote by the four FCC commissioners regarding an introduction of the plans and gaining public feedback on the matter. This vote could occur as soon as 17 October, but Wheeler is quick to note that nothing has yet been decided or confirmed regarding that potential decision.
Wheeler said of the proposals, which he claims the FCC believe can offer ‘fresh and tough’ competition in the TV market that will only serve to benefit consumers: “You want to make sure that you’re always keeping up with technology, you’re always keeping up with innovations in the marketplace. This falls into that kind of category.”
