iPod transmitters nearly legal

Ofcom has finally proposed legalising the use of FM transmitters for MP3 players.

Consumers who use a radio transmitter with their MP3 player in the UK are currently breaking the law because of potential interference with broadcast services.

A consultation has now been proposed by the communications watchdog and a decision is expected in the autumn. A decision had originally been expected in May.

Earlier this year a European standard was developed, but this in turn needs to be approved by each country. To date the standard has been approved in Germany, Switzerland, Denmark, Iceland and Poland.

"Ofcom is responding to growing consumer demand for the use of these devices and has led negotiations in Europe to develop a harmonised approach to their use by late autumn 2006," the watchdog said in a statement.

These FM transmitters, such as the iTrip, let consumers play digital music on their MP3 players through any FM radio system, and are normally used in cars.

MP3 player accessories manufacturer Belkin has employed a consultant full time for more than a year to work with Ofcom to establish a European standard, and that the company has lobbied Parliament directly and through some of its partners.

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