China has banned the unlicensed operation of digital mobile broadcasting (DMB) programs run by domestic firms before the introduction of a national standard.

The DMB technology allows customers to receive television and radio programs through portable equipment including cell phone, personal digital assistant, MP3, digital camera and laptop.

The domestic firms are no longer allowed to run such programs without permission and before a unified standard is unveiled, according to statement posted on the Website of China's State Administration of Radio, Film and Television yesterday.

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