We've all been there: you come to a church to spend some time in conversation with God, but just as you cross the threshold, your mother calls you on your mobile. Or worse, your friend, a spouse, or a business colleague. Your focus dilutes, you find it hard to concentrate, and a visit to the holy space is marred, if not cancelled, by a meeting prospect or some shopping list stuff.

      Obtrusive calls that haunt us in public places, including churches and theatres, are about to come into spotlight. On March 16, 2012 the State Commission for Radio Frequencies gathers to discuss the possibilities of using noise generators and mobile network blockers, to put a firm grip on rude behaviour. For, even when people are dissatisfied with others' mobiles going off during a performance or a service, they still forget to turn off or mute their own mobile phones.

      It is known that some theatres already use noise generators, however they do this illegally. Using noise generators and network blockers causes losses to network providers. The task that the State Commission plans to address is how to use these devices prefentially, so as not to bring the network down altogether. Another area of concern is the mobile phone usage at schools during exam sessions.

      Other considerations also enter the picture. Presumably, a user should be asked for permission to block their mobile signal. And there is a chance that someone clever will try to use signal blocking as a business opportunity, charging higher rates on network usage. Last but not least, how to configure these devices to avoid blocking a mobile signal outside the event venue? 

      The State Commission will meet to discuss these issues in mid-March. In the meantime, Kommersant Daily newspaper reports that a noise generator with 500m in radius can be bought online for 500,000RUB (approx. 13,000EUR).

      Source: RBC, Kommersant.