The U.S. House yesterday failed to pass a bill delaying the transition from analog to digital TV, leaving some hope for FLO TV network provider Qualcomm.
In the company’s earnings conference call, CEO Paul Jacobs said opposition to the bill in the House included both Democrats and Republicans, although various media reports singled out Republicans as the ones defeating the measure.
“We expect there will be further developments and we are continuing to request that any legislation retain the February 17th date for nine TV stations in four markets - Boston, Houston, Miami and San Francisco,” Jacobs said. “This would allow Qualcomm to offer its innovative service to an additional 40 million consumers.”
Qualcomm points out that it abided by FCC rules and made investments to the tune of hundreds of millions of dollars to extend its FLO TV service. Qualcomm can’t turn on its new transmitters until after the transition date.