Public Knowledge Responds to Latest MVPD Set-Top Box Proposal
Public Knowledge Responds to Latest MVPD Set-Top Box Proposal
Public Knowledge Responds to Latest MVPD Set-Top Box Proposal

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    Today, some opponents of the Federal Communications Commission’s plan to “unlock the box” submitted a set-top box proposal to the agency.

    The following can be attributed to John Bergmayer, Senior Staff Attorney at Public Knowledge:

    “We have seen this new proposal. We are encouraged that the MVPD industry understands that consumers want to use the device of their choice, not just devices from manufacturers that have cut separate deals with their MVPD, and that it recognizes the importance of 'universal search’ functionality, that encompasses online and MVPD video.

    “However, the proposal does not allow for many features that consumers want, such as home recording, and it does not allow for true user interface competition. Additionally, core aspects of the proposal are unclear, in particular, the precise mechanism by which MVPDs propose to provide apps for various hardware and software platforms, and whether consumers would need a broadband connection to access video programming instead of leveraging their existing MVPD connections.

    “We look forward to continuing to discuss these issues with the FCC and all other interested parties.”

    Members of the media may contact Communications Director Shiva Stella with inquiries, interview requests, or to join the Public Knowledge press list at shiva@publicknowledge.org or 405-249-9435.