What is the threat
If the law is passed, users will not be able to change the operating system on their computer, install custom firmware on an Android smartphone, develop alternative firmware for Wi-Fi routers (such as OpenWrt) and install such firmware on network devices, etc.
Responsibility for The FCC has decided to place the responsibility for restricting the ability to change the OS and firmware on device manufacturers, who will have to do this by some technical means. Manufacturers are generally asked to "determine which parties will be able to change the software." The scope of the law At the same time, the FCC's jurisdiction extends only to communication devices. Therefore, the bill, if passed, will not be able to prohibit changing the OS on devices without a radio function. But given that such devices are practically non-existent, almost all consumer electronics will be affected (with the possible exception of desktop PCs, which lack a radio function). Problems for software developers The bill will have a negative impact on the free software development community - Operating systems with the Linux kernel, OpenBSD, FreeBSD, etc. Since device owners will not be able to change the standard software on purchased laptops without FCC permission. Therefore, many are not satisfied with the bill. And the FCC, which planned to complete its discussion on September 8, 2015, took about two more weeks to do so. The purpose of the bill The currently huge number of devices in use and the ability to modify firmware and, as a result, change the operating frequencies of radio modules, can lead to interference and problems in communications for police, rescuers, and emergency services. The purpose of the bill is to ensure the necessary level of public safety. The current rules were adopted about 15 years ago, when Wi-Fi wireless communications were not yet widespread.The Problem with Visitors According to the current rules, a user can have no more than three non-FCC-compliant communication devices when entering the United States. If the new bill is passed, border control services will have the right to stop every visitor and search them for the presence of communication devices, their quantity and compliance with the new rules. And in our product catalog you can select and inexpensively buy an Android SMART TV Box set-top box, which will turn any TV into an entertainment center with Internet access and numerous resources to fulfill any desires. Source: cnews.ru
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