Content ratings: "V" is for voluntary: FCC commissioners applauded CTIA's guidelines for wireless content, but carriers that already have systems in place are not rushing to adopt them.(Federal Communications Commission)(Cellular Telecommunications & Internet Association)

Wireless Week, December, 2005 by Rockwell, Mark

WASHINGTON -- CTIA last month unveiled its Wireless Content Guidelines, a voluntary pledge by the industry to provide tools and controls to manage wireless content as more advanced services enter the market. The guidelines define two categories, generally accessible content and restricted content, the latter of which encompasses programming or services deemed inappropriate for those under 18. Accessing such restricted content, under the guidelines, would require parental or guardian permission for those underage.

While some carriers are now determining how to implement CTIA's content ratings guidelines, others are staying the course with their own systems.

Some larger carriers already have implemented procedures for what's acceptable. Verizon...