GBS’ ZoneCasting Receives Unanimous FCC Final Approval, Allowing a New Era for FM Radio Broadcasting 

In a landmark decision, the Federal Communications Commission unanimously approved rules allowing FM radio stations to customize content for different areas within their broadcast range. The revolutionary technology, developed by GeoBroadcast Solutions as ZoneCasting™, empowers radio stations to deliver more relevant, localized content to their listeners while maintaining their primary broadcast signal.

FCC leaders praised ZoneCasting for its potential to customize content by broadcast stations nationwide. Commissioner Geoffrey Starks called it "the dawn of a new possibility for radio," while Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel noted it enables stations to deliver hyper-local content through boosters, potentially diversifying programming and growing audiences amid increasing competition.

What This Means for Broadcasters

The new rules permit FM stations to originate unique programming through their booster stations for up to three minutes per hour, creating opportunities for:

  • Hyper-local news delivery

  • Targeted weather reports

  • Specialized emergency information

  • Locally-focused advertising opportunities for small businesses

A Technological Breakthrough

Previously, FM boosters could only rebroadcast their primary station's signal, primarily serving areas with reception challenges due to terrain obstacles. This advancement transforms these boosters into dynamic tools for content delivery, allowing broadcasters to better serve distinct communities within their coverage area.

Implementation and Availability

The FCC's decision moves our technology from experimental status to a permanent broadcasting option, providing a clear regulatory framework for stations looking to implement this innovative broadcasting solution.

This approval marks a significant milestone in radio broadcasting evolution, offering new possibilities for stations to enhance their service to local communities while maintaining the quality and reliability of traditional FM broadcasting.

FCC Adopts Final Rules for Program Originating FM Boosters

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