Gadgets which play music held on iPods over FM radios are set to become legal in the UK.

Devices such as the iTrip plug into MP3 players and connect them wirelessly to radios in cars and homes. Despite being illegal in the UK and Europe the gadgets have become extremely popular because the majority of car stereos do not have the means to connect iPods or other MP3 players.

Ofcom, the communications regulator, today outlined plans to legalise the use of iTrips and other "low power FM transmitters" in response to growing consumer demand.

It will consult on the issue until September, after which the devices are expected to become legal by the end of this year.

Simon Muys, a telecoms lawyer at London firm Olswang, said legalising the gadgets was a logical solution to a problem that has been irritating Ofcom since their introduction into the UK around two years ago.

The gadgets use the FM broadcast spectrum which is regulated by Ofcom. Under current rules, all users need a licence or an exemption from the regulator to broadcast on FM but this has proven impossible to enforce.

Mr Muys said Ofcom has recognised that with so many of these products in the market the most practical solution is to introduce an exemption.

Ofcom is following the lead set by the Committee on European Postal Regulations, a European radio and media regulator, which has already recommended an exemption for the devices.

A spokeswoman for Apple said the company did not make devices such as the iTrip and did not comment on iPod-related gadgets made by third parties.

Don Foster, Liberal Democrat culture, media and sport spokesman, said: "I am delighted that Ofcom have ended this ludicrous ban based on 1940s legislation.

"This decision will not only regulate a booming black market and provide the country with valuable tax revenue, but also enable the iPod generation to enjoy their music using the latest gadgets."

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