Twinkling phone accessories

Twinkling phone accessories

Products are available that "twinkle" when attached or placed close to a mobile phone. These products incorporate one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs), which illuminate when the mobile phone is transmitting.

Measurements taken by the Agency and by European operators have shown that these devices have the potential to cause interference to the cellular networks and other radio spectrum users. They may also reduce their mobile phones' communication range, and the phone battery may need to be charged more frequently.

Radio equipment components, including twinkling accessories, are subject to the Radio Equipment and Telecommunications Terminal Equipment (R&TTE) Regulations 2000 (SI No. 730). These regulations make it an offence to place on the market radio equipment/components that seriously degrade radio communications when used.

Furthermore, if a device alters a mobile phone's radio characteristics, the mobile phone may be rendered illegal because it no longer complies with the relevant technical standard. Continued use of the phone will therefore be an offence contrary to the Wireless Telegraphy Act 1949.

The Agency recognises that individual members of the public cannot be expected to understand the technical or legal ramifications of what they would see as the use of a simple accessory. However, it is reasonable for customers to expect that those in business should not promote equipment that cannot legally be used. The Agency shares this view.

For these reasons, the Agency will not hesitate to take enforcement action (which can involve seizure of stock and prosecution) against retailers who place products on the market in contravention of the R&TTE Regulations.