FCC invites Apple, Google and consumer advocates to talk

The Federal Communications Commission is about to conduct a “public education forum” where it will discuss the issues of consumers’ location data tracking. As a part of this discussion the FCC invited Apple, Google and consumer advocates to a forum scheduled for late June.

On June 28 the FCC will be talking about the risks and benefits of location-based services with wireless carriers, other technology companies and consumer advocacy groups, the FCC said on Tuesday.

While the regulator feels there are some benefits and advantages in the technology it is concerned that consumers are unaware of what data is collected and what is done with it, said an FCC official.

"While the use of location data has spurred innovation, the FCC's National Broadband Plan recognizes that consumer apprehension about privacy can also act as a barrier to the adoption and utilization of broadband and mobile devices," the FCC said in a statement.

The FCC forum will discuss how location tracking occurs, identify industry best practices and talk about location tracking of children, among other issues. The Federal Trade Commission will also participate.

The agency said it would use the session, as well as public comments, to produce a staff report on location-based tracking.