FCC: Wireless carriers must agree on phone unlocking rules

On Thursday, FCC Chairman Tom Wheeler wrote to CTIA President Steve Largent, urging the industry to adopt new unlocking policies before the Christmas shopping season starts.

"Enough time has passed, and it is now time for the industry to act voluntarily or for the FCC to regulate. Absent the consumer's right to be informed about eligibility, any voluntary program would be a hollow shell."

In his letter Wheeler wrote the requirements for revised unlocking standards for the CTIA Consumer Code. He pointed that he wants "a clear, concise, and readily accessible policy on unlocking". Wireless companies have to agree to unlock mobile wireless devices for customers, former customers, and legitimate owners when the applicable service contract, installment plant or ETF [early termination fee] has been fulfilled.

The chairman also insists on wireless providers to take the proactive step of notifying customers when their devices are eligible for unlocking and/or automatically unlock devices when eligible, without an additional fee. Carriers will either process unlocking requests or provide an explanation of denial within two business days.

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