Intel Wants to Force Cable Boxes to Use Ethernet

Ars reports that Intel is lobbying the FCC to require all cable boxes to contain ethernet ports. Ostensibly to support device openness, Intel’s effort really seems to be a Bootleggers and Baptists move to make sure that more Intel chipsets are needed. Instead, the market should decide what features cable boxes – and all other electronic equipment – come with. We don’t mandate that cars have built-in iPod chargers. Why mandate that cable boxes have RJ-45 plugs?