I don't know if things are still the same as they were several years ago, but it was considered by some (the PRSG?) that operation of the hybrid FRS/GMRS stations would require licensing in the GMRS service, regardless of which channels were being used. I believe that these hybrid radios were certified as GMRS radios, although certification seemed problematic to me.
As I recall, only channels 1 - 7 are shared FRS/GMRS, and many consumers are led to believe that these channels can be used on these hybrid radios under the FRS service, but that is not so. A GMRS radio is licensed on these channels up to 5W, and I think that is why they were the only FRS channels included on the early hybrid radios. Since looking into this a few years ago, mfgs may have released different hybrids that actually do meet the certification requirements of both FRS and GMRS, when operated on the appropriate channels - and that would often depend on which radio or mfg. Channel 1 on one of my radios is channel 8 on another.
I think there is action underway to change the definition of these services. One may be interested to read this - section 4:
http://edocket.access.gpo.gov/2010/pdf/2010-18116.pdf
Some of the proposals here may adequately address most people's concerns about power output and antenna limitations.
As I recall, only channels 1 - 7 are shared FRS/GMRS, and many consumers are led to believe that these channels can be used on these hybrid radios under the FRS service, but that is not so. A GMRS radio is licensed on these channels up to 5W, and I think that is why they were the only FRS channels included on the early hybrid radios. Since looking into this a few years ago, mfgs may have released different hybrids that actually do meet the certification requirements of both FRS and GMRS, when operated on the appropriate channels - and that would often depend on which radio or mfg. Channel 1 on one of my radios is channel 8 on another.
I think there is action underway to change the definition of these services. One may be interested to read this - section 4:
http://edocket.access.gpo.gov/2010/pdf/2010-18116.pdf
Some of the proposals here may adequately address most people's concerns about power output and antenna limitations.