Verizon Wireless signs with Google for Android

Verizon Wireless, the biggest US operator, has partnered with Google to develop Android-powered phones, applications and services.
 
Verizon said the companies would co-develop several Android handsets which come pre-loaded with apps and services from both companies. The joint offerings will be made available via Verizon's retail and online stores.
 
Verizon Wireless, a joint venture between Vodafone and Verizon Communications, has around 87.7 million customers.
 
The announcement ends a contentious period between the two companies, which have clashed on issues such as the openness of US mobile networks.
 
But Google CEO Eric Schmidt told a conference call that he was surprised by how willing Verizon was to adopt principles of openness.
 
In demonstration, Verizon CEO Lowell McAdam said that the controversial Google Voice VoIP app – which Apple rejected from its iPhone store – will be allowed on Verizon's network.