Globe editorial calls FM radio "outdated technology"

[Mark Casey]

It is really , really nice to have one device that replaces many devices. A 
good example is that the camera & camcorder are close to being replaced by 
the cellphone. And the screens are almost large enough to see some of the 
internet. Phones won't ever replace a PC or laptop, but they'll make inroads 
and I can imagine bye, bye standalone GPS in favor of a phone with a very 
good built-in GPS sometime in the very near future.

If the cellphone has an FM radio already, that's fine, I'd use it. But to 
legislate it, is too much. If they want to require FM, why not add AM also. 
(Maybe the AM chip is too $$?)
And, could you slip in TV audio, Shortwave(don't forget upper & lower 
sideband for the utility stations), and a police scanner also--<grin> but 
they all could probably be added fairly easily.

As far as FM radio outdated, that comment is out of touch with reality. FM 
stations might not be making as much money as in years past, and some may 
even go dark in years to come, and maybe digital service will grow, but 
analog FM will be here for many years.

What are the royalties details and their costs?

Mark Casey, K1MAP

----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Dave Doherty" <dave@skywaves.net>

The primary problem would appear to be that the cell carriers don't want to
pay royalties, because they would have to pass that cost along to their
customers.

-d