Microsoft Withdraws Recon Petition Against ATSC 3.0 DTS Order

Microsoft withdrew its 2021 petition for reconsideration of an FCC order relaxing interference rules for distributed transmission systems, a request for dismissal posted Tuesday in docket 20-74 said. The DTS order was intended to help broadcasters using ATSC 3.0 craft single frequency networks. However, Microsoft had argued it would lead to disruption for unlicensed devices using the TV white spaces (see 2105240067). “Microsoft is no longer pursuing or advocating for the matters raised in the Petition,” the request for dismissal said. “Accordingly, the Petition for Reconsideration is no longer needed or of concern to Microsoft and may be dismissed.” The previous FCC approved the DTS order 3-2, with current FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel -- then a commissioner-- and Commissioner Geoffrey Starks dissenting.