Regulators are considering a plan that would speed the transition to digital TV but would force consumers who don't have cable or satellite service to buy new gear by December 2006.
The plan would require the pay-TV services to convert digital signals to analog so they could be viewed on analog TV sets, the kind most people now have, FCC officials told USA TODAY.
That would let the government reclaim broadcasters’ analog TV channels in 2006 so they can be auctioned to wireless firms, paving the way for new and improved services and raising billions for the U.S. Treasury. Also, police and fire agencies are expected to use the airwaves to improve spotty radio systems.
Read the full story at USA Today.
