FCC, Mobile-Phone Industry Spar Over Disclosures, Micromanaging

After the Federal Communications Commission released a survey showing mobile telephone customers are being surprised by extra fees and contract terms, Steve Largent, president of CTIA - The Wireless Association, said, "I am very troubled with the current direction the FCC is taking. It seems the commission is going to attempt to micromanage what is an incredible array of choices for consumers."

Largent, a former Republican Congressman, said the wireless industry "does provide 'simple and easy to understand' plans for every type of American consumer." Verizon Wireless, AT&T and other service providers may face rules like those in Europe, where carriers must send text messages to subscribers who are closing in on plan limits, the FCC said May 11. The agency said it is talking with wireless industry groups about steps to improve bills. Last week the agency said wireless industry concentration is rising. AT&T Inc., the second-biggest mobile-phone company and a CTIA member, said the FCC's conclusion about concentration could lead to new regulations. Other CTIA members include leader Verizon Wireless, Sprint Nextel Corp. and Deutsche-Telekom AG's T-Mobile.