Usually, turning off your mobile phone when entering a cinema or theater is the most basic courtesy. However, some people ignore these rituals and rules anyway. Yes, you are always interrupted when you watch a movie. For this reason, Japan has recently developed a new material that installs magnets in wooden boards, which can absorb radio waves emitted by mobile phones without interfering with mobile phones outside the cinema. Some cinemas in Hong Kong are very interested in this new invention and said they would consider installing it. Most of the time, cell phone jammer devices are the choice of cinema managers. This article will explore in depth whether cell phone jammer devices should be used in cinemas, as well as the pros and cons of this technology.
Legal background
In most countries, the use of cell phone jammers is strictly regulated. According to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) in the United States, no individual or organization may use jamming devices to block legal radio communications unless specifically authorized. Violations of these regulations may result in severe penalties, including high fines and criminal liability.
In the European Union, the use of cell phone jammer devices is also strictly restricted. According to the European Regulatory Authority for Electronic Communications (BEREC), devices that interfere with legal communications are illegal without permission. In China, while cell phone jammers are allowed in certain special places such as prisons and examination halls, the use of such devices in commercial places such as movie theaters requires strict approval and authorization.
Why use cell phone jammers in movie theaters?
Alex Billington, a Hollywood film blogger, was happy about AMC's quick retreat. "Texting in the theater completely ruins the movie," he said. "This is something we have to fight on a social and cultural level."
In 2014, two men got into an argument while texting in a Florida movie theater, which eventually led to a fatal shooting. Although this is an extreme case, most people would agree that glowing cell phone screens and finger clicks can be irritating.
Have these people never been so fully involved in a movie, or so deeply involved in a story, that when something makes a sound or vibrates or illuminates a few seats, they don't feel that it is disrespectful to the people around them who are also watching the movie.
Potential risks of cell phone jammers
Blocked emergency communications: In an emergency, such as a fire or medical emergency, the inability to make an emergency call can be life-threatening.
Legal risks: Unauthorized use of cell phone jammers can lead to legal action and heavy fines for the theater.
Impact on surrounding areas: The interference range of the jammer may extend beyond the cinema, affecting the normal communications of nearby residents and businesses.
Although cell phone jammer devices can also affect surrounding areas, bringing legal risks. Personally, I think cinemas and theaters should be allowed to install jammers, and there should be clear signs that they are being used. If people don't like this, they are free to spend their money elsewhere.