Dropping the F-bomb on TV

I have noticed over the past few months that there is an increasing use of what used to be censored speech showing up on TV. Specifically, I'm talking about the use of the F-bomb.

It used to be, you'd have to get HBO or another premium channel to hear words like that. Now, it occasionally pops up in the most unexpected programs. I'm talking about channels that are part of the regular cable lineup, like FOX, TNT, etc.

Now, I'm not a prude, mind you. But this seems to be a major step from what was always allowed on TV. I'm just surprised, that's all. Was there an FCC ruling that I missed somewhere along the line?