'4G' wireless data must be spelled out under bill

With the meaning of "4G" seemingly different for every wireless carrier, Rep Anna Eshoo (D-CA) will introduce a bill to force companies to disclose the speeds of their next-generation networks in stores and on customer bills.

The Next Generation Wireless Disclosure Act would require carriers to inform consumers of minimum data speeds, network reliability and coverage, and the technology used to provide "4G" service. Consumer groups issued statements of support for disclosure rules around 4G. Sascha Meinrath, director of the New America Foundation's Open Technology Initiative, criticized "Orwellian doublespeak advertising" among wireless carriers that tout "lightning-fast" or "supercharged" speeds without elaborating. "Transparency rules that provide consumers with basic information regarding the actual price, minimum speed, and plain-language terms of service are desperately needed," Meinrath said. Once Eshoo's legislation is introduced, it will be up to Rep. Greg Walden (R-OR) as to whether the bill will get a hearing. Walden is the chairman of the House Energy and Commerce Committee's subcommittee on communications and technology.