The FCC proposed rules to allow radio stations to take advantage of new digital technologies that could enhance the sound quality of their programs.
The proposal, approved by a 5-0 vote, was issued for comment and could be significantly altered before being approved. That process can take anywhere from a few months to several years.
The FCC said it would study different plans for offering digital radio. While considering an industry-backed plan to offer digital signals over the same frequencies that now carry AM and FM radio, the agency said it also was open to considering proposals that would utilize new airwave bands.
For example, the agency asked for comment on using frequencies that now carry TV channel No. 6 for digital radio. In less than 10 years, TV broadcasters are expected also to switch to digital, and no TV station will be using channel No. 6 anywhere in the U.S. after the transition, the FCC said.
Industry calls for FCC rules on digital radio were led by USA Digital Radio Inc., a digital radio pioneer owned jointly owned by leading broadcasters including AMFM Inc., CBS Corp. and Clear Channel Communications.