For Immediate Release
ATIS 1200 G Street, NW Suite 500 Washington, DC 20005	Contact: Trish Gessner Phone: 202-434-8851 E-mail: tgessner@atis.org www.atis.org

ATIS Applauds FCC Update of Wireless Product Labeling

June 21, 2005, Washington – ATIS today announced its support of the Federal Communications Commissions’ (FCC) action that clarifies the labeling requirements for wireless devices that are compatible with hearing aids.

“The clarification of product labeling in today’s FCC Order on Reconsideration will make it easier for consumers to identify cell phones and other wireless devices that are compatible with hearing aids,” said Susan M. Miller, president and CEO of ATIS. “The wireless device manufacturers, carriers, and advocates for the hearing impaired have been working together for the past two years through the ATIS Hearing Aid Compatibility (HAC) Incubator. By aligning the consumer labeling for wireless devices to be consistent with the labeling on hearing aid devices, the manufacturers and carriers will be able to better serve all of their customers.”

ATIS recommended clarifying the consumer labeling guidelines in its May 6, 2005, letter to the FCC. These new labels, “M” and “T,” correspond with the “M” microphone rating and “T” tele-coil rating used in hearing aids. The labels, introduced in the ANSI C63.19-2005 draft standard, were in conflict with the labels found in the 2001 version of the standard.

Consumer labels were one of several items addressed by the FCC in its Order on Reconsideration and Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (FCC 05-122) released today.

The ATIS HAC Incubator is composed of technical experts from the wireless and hearing aid industries, as well as representatives for consumer advocacy and disability groups.

About ATIS

ATIS is a technical planning and standards development organization that is committed to rapidly developing and promoting technical and operations standards for the communications and related information technologies industry worldwide using a pragmatic, flexible and open approach. Participants from more than 350 communications companies are active in ATIS’ 22 industry committees and Incubator Solutions Program. www.atis.org

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