Wireless carriers have been trying to ban the use of cellular signal boosters for several years, filing a complaint to the FCC back in 2010 insisting the devices interfere with cellular networks and disrupt service to customers. Device makers have countered that poorly made devices could potentially do this, but that carriers and a select few booster manufacturers essentially wanted to control this market with their own devices.

Yesterday the FCC tried to reach some sort of compromise with a new report and order that isn't much of a compromise. According to the new FCC rule, users now need carrier approval if they want to install a signal booster. It's an unpopular move with consumer advocates, given these devices often help shore up coverage gaps in wireless carrier networks.

The 2 million odd users with unapproved signal boosters currently installed will technically need to shut those devices down until they get carrier approval by registering on a carrier website. Given these registration systems aren't even live yet, it's fairly obvious users can ignore the ruling going forward, but it's unclear if the FCC plans to issue penalties or fines for users who don't adhere to the new guidelines. Boosters from some manufacturers (those lucky enough to have a seat at the negotiations table) will be pre-certified by carriers, requiring no effort on the part of the consumer.

"The new regulatory framework for signal boosters we adopt today is one element in a set of initiatives designed to promote deployment of mobile voice and broadband services in the United States," claims the FCC. What it sounds like is that the FCC, once again, allowed itself to be pushed around by carrier lobbyists.

Wilson Electronics one of the largest manufacturers of signal boosters welcomed the ruling, since their devices are among those automatically sanctioned for use. Wilson, who clearly had more than a little input on what kind of devices met FCC standards (read: theirs), issued a statement applauding the fact the rules keep competitors unsanctioned products from the market. Wilson went so far as to praise AT&T and Verizon's leadership, saying the companies "undoubtedly had the best interests of their customers in mind throughout this process."