iTrip is illegal in Britain
A product called iTrip made by Griffin Technology to compliment iPod has been declared illegal in the United Kingdom. It is legal to use iTrip in the USA and is promoted by Apple as the coolest iPod accessory in the world!
iTrip makes it possible to play music downloaded on the iPod music player by broadcasting it through FM radio frequency. This device has been declared illegal considering UK have licensed out all the FM frequencies through the Wireless Telegraphy Act of 1949.
The device only operates in a small area. Still, the regulator Ofcom say that using the device can be considered as running a pirated radio station hence is punishable by law. As per the spokesperson, the maximum penalty for using an iTrip could be two years in prison or a large fine. However, this is the worst possible scenario.
Apple sells iTrip on its iTunes music store in the USA. However, they have made it clear that it will not be available for sale in UK edition of the store. Still the device is easily available from eBay and other e-commerce websites on the net. Even Austria and Iceland have similar regulations that iTrip conflicts with.
Looks like Apple might get into more trouble with this particular accessory.
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December 8th, 2004 at 10:15 am
Seriously, “Apple might get into more trouble with this particular accessory.” Like they’re the only people who make such a device? They’ve had them at Radio Shack for years, and there are lots of other places to get them too. I seriously doubt that Apple will get much “static” (excuce the pun) if they’re promoting these FM transmitters.
December 8th, 2004 at 10:26 pm
the company in news get into trouble. with all the hype sorrounding itunes and ipod… if the device keeps on getting complaints from radio stations… the authorities might blame apple for all that.
March 18th, 2005 at 5:05 pm
I think it is an absolute disgrace that it has been baned in the U.K . What are the government thinking , theyre just a bunch of idiots .
March 18th, 2005 at 5:06 pm
I think it is an absolute disgrace that it has been baned in the U.K . What are the government thinking , theyre just a bunch of idiots .
August 12th, 2005 at 5:33 pm
I also think it is an absolute disgrace that it has been baned in the U.K . What a backward little Britian this is! And stop having a go at Apple, at least it has products that work and people want!!