Ofcom makes new regulations to allow use of mobile phone repeaters

Ofcom has today confirmed the making of regulations that will allow people to use certain types of ‘mobile phone repeaters’, without the need for a licence.

Mobile phone repeaters amplify signals between a mobile phone and the network operators’ base stations offering, in certain circumstances, improved mobile reception for the user. In October last year, Ofcom made a decision that two categories of repeaters should no longer need a licence to be used legally. The two categories are:

• Static mobile phone repeaters for indoor use (where complying with specified requirements); and
• Low gain mobile phone repeaters for in-vehicle use (again where complying with specified requirements).

Following consultation, Ofcom has now made the regulations that will allow use of these devices, provided they meet the required technical standards and conditions of use. Current generations of wideband repeaters are unlikely to meet these requirements and their unlicensed installation and use will remain illegal.

The regulations are called the Wireless Telegraphy (Mobile Repeater) (Exemption) Regulations 2018 and come into force on 12 April 2018.

Published by: Ofcom