Commissioner Brendan Carr is urging the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to investigate tech giant Apple. The request follows Apple's actions in shutting down Beeper Mini, an app that provided iMessage functionality for Android users.
Carr claims these actions may violate FCC regulations, with these actions potentially infringing upon the guidelines laid out in the FCC's Part 14 rules. These rules govern the accessibility of advanced communication services and equipment for individuals with disabilities. The rules stipulate that providers should refrain from introducing network features or capabilities that hinder accessibility or usability.
Launched in the previous year, Beeper Mini offered Android users access to iMessage features such as blue message bubbles and the ability to send high-definition content. However, Apple's presentation of these message bubbles in low contrast was problematic, as Carr suggested this made it "difficult for people with low vision or difficulty with seeing, to pick up those messages."
Carr aired his concerns on the social media platform, X, formerly known as Twitter, stating, "I think there are potentially negative consequences if Apple perpetuates a world in which it treats its proprietary technologies one way and degrades the performance of competitive ones."
Carr's call to investigate Apple's practices mirrors previous appeals, such as a letter urging the US Department of Justice to examine if Apple had infringed upon antitrust laws in its closure of Beeper Mini.
