Stations More Spectrum for ATSC 3.0 ‘Unnecessary,’ Says Microsoft; No So, Responds NAB

ATSC 3.0 "will lead to important gains for consumers,” Microsoft lawyers told FCC Media Bureau and Office of Engineering and Technology representatives Tuesday, said a filing posted Friday in docket 16-142. “But granting a second channel to every licensee in the country” for voluntary simulcasts “is unnecessary,” it said. “Given the lack of unused spectrum in urban areas and plentitude of available simulcast partners there, urban broadcasters will readily make the transition.” The cost of leveraging a second allocated channel “is sure to be prohibitive for many,” said Microsoft. There’s “no evidence” in the proceeding of “any true need” for extra simulcast channels, it said. “Broadcasters initiated the ATSC 3.0 transition with the express representation that no additional spectrum would be necessary.” The company "misapprehends both the issue at hand and the rights to which unlicensed services are entitled," emailed NAB's spokesperson Friday. "Temporary use of available channels to smooth the transition to ATSC 3.0 remains the single most consumer-friendly step the FCC could take” here.