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Archos' Transformer rival reappears, passes federal inspection, forgets its keyboard
If you cast your mind back several months, you might recall Archos unveiling a new range of tablets that can pair up with a keyboard add-on. While the French tablet maker kept quiet on the specifics at its debut-- with not even a mention of the hardware's OS -- a filing at the FCC helps plug some of those information gaps. Courtesy of the user manual, we can see that the tablet will be running Android 4.0, while the as-yet unspecified storage capacity can be expanded by microSD. There's a mini-HDMI port that looks like it will require its own proprietary cable, and the keyboard dock? Well, it's absent from this FCC gallery, but it does appear in the user manual, demonstrating a twist and lift mechanism that creates a pop-up stand for the slab. Gaze on in horror as those FCC technicians prise open the Archos 101 xs' shell and scope out the internal works -- it's all in the source below.
Xperia GX goes through federal inspection, is still the Sony phone we want
Sony's forthcoming 4.6-inch Android ICS slab has appeared at the FCC, and has revealed a few more details on what appears to be the company's next flagship smartphone. The highlight of the federal-sanctioned autopsy of the Xperia GX reveals an interesting point; a pentaband 3G radios capable of HSPA speeds, something that's still a rarity among global smartphones. The filing otherwise offers up a not-so-thrilling glimpse at the hardware labeling and, well, not much else. See for yourself at the link below.
Mystery WiFi Logitech webcam diagram appears, lacks role-reversing hardware photos
Logitech's collection of subtle HD webcams launched a few months ago, but an unannounced WiFi-connected camera has appeared at the FCC. Labelled up as the Logitech Broadcaster, a little bit of investigation reveals that the camera may be able to function unencumbered by cabling, similar to Livestream's identically-named Broadcaster add-on or the ill-fated FlipLive cams. Connected through WiFi -- thus explaining its appearance at the FCC -- we still don't know specifics on how it'll be powered, whether it's through a self-contained battery or otherwise. Until then, emissions and wavelength obsessives can direct themselves to the source for the science.
Panasonic's P-08D Eluga Live tablet makes a quick splash at the FCC, keeps no secrets
It wasn't too long ago that we saw Panasonic's Eluga Live slate destined to be one of NTT DoCoMo's upcoming slab offerings, and now it has managed to land itself all the way across the pond at the probing FCC offices. Interestingly enough, but not terribly exciting, the filing reveals Panasonic's P-08D tablet supports the 850MHz bands -- which in theory should allow it to coast through AT&T's old-gen waves without any hiccups, though this doesn't necessarily mean it ever will. That of course, goes along with its expected WiFi capabilities and those DLNA streaming goods we'd told you about during its earlier appearance. As is often the case, however, the Eluga Live's recent FCC visit doesn't assure it'll ever see the light of day in the US, but it does keep the magic doors open. If you're eager to give the full set of docs a rundown, you can do so at the source link below.
FCC clears Sprint to run CDMA, 4G LTE on 800MHz iDEN airwaves
Sprint might not have its 4G LTE network up and running to power your EVO 4G LTE, but it's already getting more headroom. The FCC has just tweaked the rules around the ESMR (Enhanced Specialized Mobile Radio) spectrum to let Sprint, and the considerably more regional SouthernLINC Wireless, run their CDMA voice calls and LTE data on the 800MHz band they're currently using for their soon-to-end iDEN networks. In practice, the extra frequency access should be a tremendous help to at least Sprint, which hasn't had the low-level, indoors-friendly airspace that AT&T and Verizon enjoy with their 700MHz networks. Just don't expect your EVO or the rest of the initial Sprint LTE devices to take advantage any time soon, as you'll need to both get an 800MHz-ready phone as well as endure the long, long wait until Sprint switches on the extra LTE band in 2014.
Samsung Galaxy S III for T-Mobile hits FCC, brings future-proofed HSPA+ for good measure
There's been hints of it coming as early as February, but we now have a smoking gun at the FCC: the Galaxy S III is coming to T-Mobile. A Samsung SGH-T999 has popped up at the agency sporting newly added 1,700MHz AWS support that's the telltale sign of a T-Mobile device, along with the T999 name itself (the T989 is the network's Galaxy S II). It also totes 850MHz and 1,900MHz WCDMA bands being used for HSPA+ data rather than just voice, a clue that the phone is ready for refarmed GSM spectrum. Just in case there was any remaining doubt, we've further spotted a related T999V entry at the Bluetooth SIG with a rather familiar-looking image as well as a Samsung-hosted T999 user agent profile on the web that matches what we know about the Android 4.0 hardware. We have yet to get a look at whether or not the T-Mobile version is any different on the outside, but with the FCC's help, there's not much left to know before the expected summer US launch.
FCC wants to set aside wireless spectrum for medical body area devices, our hearts are literally aflutter
The FCC has been making a big push towards freeing up the airwaves for medical uses, and it just took one of its biggest steps on that front by proposing to clear space for wireless body area networks. Agency officials want to let devices operate in the 2.36GHz to 2.4GHz space so that patients can stay at home or at least move freely, instead of being fenced in at the hospital or tethered to a bed by wires. Devices would still need the FDA's green light, but they could both let patients go home sooner as well as open the door wider for preventative care. Voting on the proposal takes place May 24, which leaves our tech-minded hearts beating faster -- and if the proposal takes effect, we'll know just how much faster.
FCC to dole out up to $300 million to help carriers expand service in rural areas
It seems like almost every day that we receive a press release announcing Verizon or AT&T is planning to expand its LTE coverage to three, five, eleven new markets. But in some remote pockets of the country, you'd be lucky to latch onto even a solid 3G signal. In a bid to make sure those folks in the boonies get their due, the Federal Communications Commission is establishing a fund to encourage carriers to roll out 3G and 4G service in sparser areas. All told, the agency plans to award up to $300 million to mobile operators, with funds going to the providers offering the lowest rates. The winners will be decided in a sealed, single-round auction, which opens June 27th and is set to close July 11th. As a condition for receiving the funds, carriers must agree to cover at least 75 percent of the road miles within a given census tract. While it's unclear at this early stage which mobile players will take the bait, the FCC's already signaled which parts of the country will be first in line for upgraded service -- namely, Rocky Mountain states like Utah and Idaho, along with Maine, Appalachia and upstate New York.
Major ISPs agree to FCC's code of conduct on botnets, DNS attacks
The FCC's campaign to secure the internet gained new momentum last week, when a group of major ISPs signed on to a new code of conduct aimed at mitigating cybercrime. Adopted by the FCC's Communications, Security, Reliability and Interoperability Council (CSRIC), the new code targets three main security threats: botnets, DNS attacks and internet route hijacking. The Anti-Bot Code of Conduct invites ISPs to adopt sharper detection methods, and to notify and assist consumers whenever their computers are infected. The DNS code, meanwhile, offers a list of best practices by which ISPs can tighten security. Though it doesn't call for a full adoption of DNSSEC technology, the guidelines do represent a "first step" toward implementation, allowing web users to verify the authenticity of their online destinations. As for internet route attacks, the CSRIC calls for a similarly collective approach, asking ISPs to collaborate on new technologies within an industry-wide framework. In a statement, FCC chairman Julius Genachowski said that these practices "identify smart, practical, voluntary solutions that will materially improve the cyber security of commercial networks and bolster the broader endeavors of our federal partners." The industry apparently agrees, as heavyweights like AT&T, CenturyLink, Comcast, Cox, Sprint, Time Warner Cable, T-Mobile and Verizon have already signed on. For the FCC's full statement, check out the source link below.
US DOJ sues AT&T for improper IP Relay billing, alleges millions in false claims to FCC
AT&T has violated the United States False Claims Act to the tune of "millions of dollars," according to a Department of Justice lawsuit filed this week. The DOJ alleges that the carrier intentionally neglected to authenticate users of the IP Relay service -- a tool utilized by hearing-impaired persons to type messages that communications assistants then read to callers. The service is also abused by individuals overseas to defraud U.S. businesses (think infamous Nigerian scams), which prompted the FCC to establish a law requiring telecom providers, including AT&T, to confirm the identity of registered users, which it apparently failed to do. This resulted in thousands of fraudulent users, representing some 95 percent of all calls, which AT&T received FCC payments for to the tune of $1.30 per minute. An AT&T spokesman was somewhat dismissive when speaking to the Associated Press, saying "as the FCC is aware, it is always possible for an individual to misuse IP Relay services, just as someone can misuse the postal system or an email account, but FCC rules require that we complete all calls by customers who identify themselves as disabled." But if the allegations are proven, there could be some pretty serious repercussions for Big Blue. DOJ PR is just past the break.
FCC weighs Dish 4G network and 700MHz interoperability (updated)
Let's temper our excitement -- the FCC is merely considering these proposals at the moment but, if either are adopted, it could permanently change the mobile broadband landscape. First up, the commission is considering reassigning the 2GHz band from MSS (Mobile Satellite Service) to AWS (Advances Wireless Service). If adopted, the new rules would clear the way for Dish to launch its LTE network and enter the 4G market. It will also irk AT&T, which has been trying to tie up the spectrum following the collapse of the T-Mobile merger, most likely because the carrier hoped to use the 2GHz band itself.Secondly, and perhaps even more important, is a proposal that would place new interoperability rules on the 700MHz spectrum used by both Verizon and AT&T for their LTE service. Until now concerns over interference have kept most 700MHz devices from being able to hop between the different blocks of spectrum. This is a particularly big issue for small and rural carriers which own some chunks of real estate in the band, but lack the buying power to convince big OEMs to make handsets for their networks. Obviously, there's still some haranguing to do before either of these proposals become law and you can bet AT&T will do its best to derail both efforts. Still, it's a good sign to see the FCC even taking up the issues. You can watch the entire debate at the source link.[Tower photo via Shutterstock]Update: As one of our tipsters has pointed out, it appears that the interoperability rules would only apply to the lower 700MHz band occupied by AT&T, not the upper band used by Verizon. Alas, that means we won't have Big Red and Ma Bell playing nice with their LTE anytime soon.[Thanks, Karen]
FCC counters Verizon, aims to dismiss its data roaming complaints
Verizon and the FCC have been going at it for sometime over a variety of issues, but one of the more notable has been the data roaming rules that narrowly passed last year. In May of 2011 the carrier filed suit against the commission, claiming it had overstepped its authority by demanding larger providers enter into voice and data roaming agreements with its smaller "competitors." The regulatory agency has finally responded in kind, by saying that Verizon's case is invalid and that its powers are clearly spelled out under Title III of the Communications Act of 1934. Now its just a matter of waiting to see if Big Red's case is indeed dismissed, or if the FCC is headed to court. Stayed tuned to find out -- we know we will.
FCC rules VoIP providers must report outages in effort to improve 911 service
The FCC has many important things under its jurisdiction, and ensuring a functional 911 service is among the most critical. As such, telephony providers are required to report network outages, so the commission can monitor and maintain a resilient service. Until now, this hasn't included VoIP services, but a new ruling states that interconnected VoIP providers will have to declare outages that meet certain criteria. The move comes after the FCC's most recent Local Competition Report, which reveals that almost one-third of the 87 million residential telephone subscriptions are now provided as VoIP, and therefore carry emergency calls. While public safety is the main driver, the report also states it will "ensure critical communications infrastructure remains available in times of crisis." Check out the lengthy video after the break to see the meeting in its entirety.
North Carolina launches FCC-approved TV White Space network in Wilmington
Back in December, the FCC approved the first white space device and database for the lucky city of Wilmington, North Carolina. Last week, the program bore its first fruits, when database operator Spectrum Bridge finally launched its TV White Space (TVWS) network in Carolina, as part of Wilmington's ongoing "Smart City" initiative. With the TVWS network up and running, Wilmingtonians will have internet access in public parks, while authorities will be able to use part of Spectrum Bridge's broadband for video surveillance. Public security, in fact, is among the primary functions of the new network, which will be expanded to help manage traffic congestion and to help the city function more efficiently. Beam past the break for more, in the full press release.
AT&T abandons T-Mobile merger plans (updated)
AT&T has officially given up on its plans to buy out T-Mobile. In a statement, the company said it had agreed with Deutsche Telekom to cease pursuing a merger, which has come under increasing scrutiny from both the government and advocacy groups. The failed attempt to snatch up its smaller, German-owned competitor will ultimately cost Ma Bell $4 billion and it's not paying those dues without some grumbling. In the release the FCC and DOJ bear the brunt of AT&T's ire, which are accused of harming customers and exasperating the already looming spectrum shortage. Of course, this also hurts the carrier's ability to compete with Verizon which has been on a spectrum buying spree as of late. As a consolation prize Deutsche Telekom and AT&T have entered a roaming agreement, though the structure of that deal and whether it's purely international or domestic roaming remains to be seen. The complete press release from AT&T can be found after the break.
FCC grants radio spectrum to muscle-stimulating wireless devices for paralysis patients
The medical community is all smiles today, because the FCC has decided to allocate a chunk of radio spectrum for potentially life-altering wireless devices. Designed for stroke patients and those suffering from brain or spinal cord injuries, these so-called medical micropower networks (MMN) use a set of implanted electrodes and a wearable wireless controller to stimulate the muscles of a paralyzed user. In a statement issued last week, the FCC announced that these devices have been approved for use within the 413 to 457MHz range, as requested in a petition from the Alfred Mann Foundation, which has already constructed several prototype MMN systems. The organization's CEO, David Hankin, immediately lauded the ruling, adding that the Foundation now plans to launch trials of MMN systems on humans, in the hopes of receiving clearance from the FDA. "The FCC's decision removes the most significant roadblock to helping people," Hankin said. "The frequency that has been approved for use is the most efficient for penetrating tissue with radio waves and without which the new generation of our implantable neurostimulator technology would be impossible to advance." The significance of the occasion wasn't lost on FCC chairman Julius Genachowski, either. "These broadband-enabled technologies are life-changing, impacting individuals, families, and communities in ways we can only begin to imagine," Genachowski said in a prepared statement. His sentiments were echoed in remarks from fellow commissioner Mignon Clyburn, who heralded the decision as "one of the most important the commission has adopted during my tenure," citing its potential to "greatly improve the lives of those who are faced with some of today's most difficult medical challenges."
Label outs AT&T 4G LTE version of the Galaxy Tab 10.1 creeping through the FCC
If you're in the crowd holding out until the Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 hit Ma Bell's 4G network, get ready to pull the trigger. The code-named SGH-I957 rolled through the FCC sporting a label for AT&T's LTE service on its backside. It appears the carrier will offer the 10.1-inch slate alongside the similarly sized HTC Jetstream. Don't forget, the latter of the two will set you back seven whole Benjamins... on contract. The AT&T Galaxy Tab should save you a few bills, though, if the pricing is comparable to VZW's LTE offering.
Apple iPhone 4S makes its way through the FCC?
Well, well, what have we here? Hot on the heels of being unveiled to the world, the latest and greatest iPhone appears to have landed with the feds to get the FCC's stamp of approval. That's right, an Apple phone bearing model number A1387 has just made it through the commission's myriad tests unscathed. We can't say for certain it's the 4S, but given the timing of its appearance, it sure seems like Uncle Sam's officially on board with the new iPhone. If the rest of our coverage of Apple's new handset wasn't enough for you, hit the source below for the full FCC nitty gritty.
FCC to test white space database at its own pace
See that faint silhouette lurking on the horizon? That'd be a wave of white space internet, and it's inching ever closer to the US. On Wednesday, the FCC confirmed that it will begin testing a new database that will enable gadgets to operate on white space airwaves, nearly a year after first ratifying its "super WiFi" initiative. The Spectrum Bridge database, as outlined last year, will map out all channels that aren't being used by radio or TV services, thereby preventing broadband devices from interfering with broadcasts. The system will be tested over a 45-day period beginning on September 19th and ending on November 2nd, in order to make sure that it correctly distinguishes available channels from those currently in use. Cable operators and wireless mic users are invited to register with the database to test its accuracy, but this trial period could easily be extended if the Commission determines that further tests are in order. And, though there's still no indication that unlicensed broadband devices will be hitting the market anytime soon, FCC Chairman Julius Genachowski seems confident that this white space spectrum could drastically change the industry. "Unleashing white spaces spectrum will enable a new wave of wireless innovation," Genachowski explained. "It has the potential to exceed the billions of dollars in economic benefit from WiFi, the last significant release of unlicensed spectrum, and drive private investment and job creation." You can read the FCC's full public notice, after the break.
Samsung Stratosphere makes its obligatory FCC visit, confirms membership in Verizon's LTE club
We know, the image above is hardly as detailed as the ones we glanced at this morning, but it has its measure of significance nonetheless. It's a rough diagram of the Samsung SCH-i405 -- a phone known to us as the Stratosphere -- as it appears in FCC filings approved today. The documents' mention of LTE band 13 (as well as CDMA / EVDO) seems to confirm rumors that suggest the aforementioned device will be coming to Verizon's 4G network, likely sooner rather than later. If you've been eager to see an Epic 4G-esque QWERTY slider on the largest carrier in the US, this will be your golden opportunity. Of course, this may prove to be a drop in the bucket when compared to an impending flood of even more tempting handsets.
