Geotargeted FM Rule Changes Could Cause Booster Boom: REC
FCC rule changes to allow for geotargeted radio broadcasts using synchronized FM boosters could cause a “booster boom” and advertising “redlining” and could “obliterate the overall FM listening experience," said low-power FM entity REC Networks in early filed replies posted…
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in docket 20-401 Wednesday. “Self-interference” from radio stations using boosters to broadcast different content within sections of their contours “would create a damaging experience to some radio listeners to the point where they might just give up on FM radio similar to how they gave up on AM.” The primary proponent of the technology -- GeoBroadcast Solutions -- says demand for boosters won't sharply increase. REC said the company’s filings that there could be vendor financing to fund stations installing the tech indicate otherwise. “The FCC is bound by statute in this unique situation to assure that FM Boosters do not have any kind of a status over an FM Translator or LPFM station that would render the incumbent station useless,” REC said. Geotargeting specific areas could allow advertisers to target only affluent sections of a broadcaster’s coverage area, REC said. "REC’s filing includes speculations and errors that will be addressed and clarified thoroughly in our filing this Friday," emailed a GBS spokesperson.