FCC Explains Rationale for Requiring Volume Controls on Wireless Handsets

The FCC released Tuesday's order addressing hearing aid compatibility and volume control on wireline and wireless phones (see 1710240062 or 1710240058). The main complaint came from Commissioners Mike O’Rielly and Brendan Carr, who said the FCC shouldn’t impose standards for wireless volume control. Both dissented to that part of the order. The text released Thursday said the record supported the action. “Given the significantly expanded reliance on wireless telephone communications -- and concomitant decline in wireline phone usage -- we affirm our belief that a volume control requirement that specifies certain levels of amplification as an element of hearing aid compatibility is just as necessary for wireless handsets as it is for wireline phones, to ensure the provision of effective telecommunications for people with hearing loss,” the FCC said.