Google: Verizon thinks open access won't apply

In a recent blog post about telecom regulation, Google has lambasted Verizon Wireless' latest efforts to get the FCC to change its stance on open access provisions in the upcoming 700 MHz auction. Frontline Wireless also recently criticized Verizon for not fully disclosing its FCC lobbying efforts. Google claims that Verizon has its own special way of interpreting the open access provisions:

"As far as we can tell, Verizon appears to be arguing that two of the key provisions in the auction rules designed to spur competition--the requirements for open devices and open applications--should not apply to a licensee's own devices that use this block of 700 MHz spectrum," wrote Richard Whitt, Google's Washington Media and Telecom Counsel. "Their theory is that so long as 'unlocked' devices (those that can be configured to work with any network) are theoretically available to consumers through other means, the winning bidder in the auction shouldn't be required to make its devices open as well."

For more on the reaction:
- read this post from Whitt
- read the letter Google sent the FCC

Related article:
Schmidt: Google will "probably" bid in 700MHz