Wireless Carriers Adopt Voluntary Content Guidelines
On Nov. 8, 2005, CTIA announced a voluntary pledge by the major wireless carriers to adhere to new “Wireless Content Guidelines.” Participating carriers have agreed to separate content such as video clips, ring tones and other audio into two categories.
“Generally Accessible Content” will be available to all consumers. “Restricted Carrier Content” will be available only to those over 18 or minors with parental permission. Carriers will base classification decisions upon existing guidelines used to rate content in the television, film, music and video game industries.
A second stage of this effort will involve development of an Internet filter that will allow users to block the download of certain content to their wireless devices.
The FCC has applauded this voluntary initiative, which some see as an effort to avoid the development of formal regulations intended to prevent minors from obtaining access to inappropriate wireless content.
The Guidelines are available at www.ctia.org.
