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British Authorities: iPod FM Transmitters Like iTrip or TuneCast LEGAL

Griffin iTrip or Belkin TuneCast can be used legally with your iPod and car radio, Ofcom announces.

Ofcom will legalize Griffin iTrip or Belkin TuneCast-like FM transmitters that link portable devices to car radios and sound systems.

The measure is applicable starting December 8, and comes after demands for legalization of the low-power FM transmitters by consumers, based on the fact that they do not interfere with broadcast services.

The reason for which it took so long is that legally accepting them implied modifying the Wireless Telegraphy Act (WTA), which governed radio wave reception and transmission.

Other changes:

CB equipment can be operated without license. Equipment and frequencies "liberated" include Inmarsat BGAN and HDFSS satellite terminals, radar level gauges (expected to lead to a generalization of collision prevention equipment in cars), and walkie talkies.

So, no more cassette adapters needed to link your iPod and car radio, as the Griffin iTrip and other low-power FM transmitters will be legal in the UK starting Dec 8.