Debunking Anti-App Claims

Unless the path is altered soon, the Federal Communications Commission is on course to force adoption of a set-top-box (STB) technology mandate that will harm US video distributors, content producers, local advertisers, and ultimately consumers – without any assurances of saving one thin dime. Even if this plan is adopted by the Commission, it will be multiple years, if ever, before anything actually materializes. During this time, video delivery innovation will be slowed, if not halted altogether, as the industry muddles through the Commission’s latest edict.

The common-sense, technology-friendly replacement for STBs is presently before the Commission in the form of downloadable apps used daily by millions of American consumers. The argument in support of apps has been strengthened further by new details offered by various video providers, including firm commitments on timing and price, offering further comfort to those worried about an app-centric solution. However, given the substantive debate and political winds shifting away from the Commission’s illogical regime, advocates have started to attack the apps solution as a counteroffensive tactic. It seems only appropriate to address some claims made, debunk inaccuracies, and see if any legitimate objections remain.