NNSquad - Network Neutrality Squad
[ NNSquad ] Verizon in perspective
The statements from Verizon expressing a lack of interest in AT&T-style content filtering are very welcome, and there have been other positive moves by Verizon, but we should keep things in perspective whenever possible. On the positive front, we also have Verizon Wireless' "any device, any app" service level statements (though pricing details have yet to be announced for this as far as I know). The practical competitive impact is somewhat unclear -- AT&T/Cingular has long pretty much allowed any compatible GSM device on their wireless network and seems to be application transparent in my experience. There are indications that Verizon Wireless has been loosening their notoriously restrictive terms of service (a detailed discussion is at: http://wifinetnews.com/archives/008047.html ). This is an interesting development, especially given that Verizon Wireless has also been traditionally very restrictive on device capabilities, even blocking bluetooth local file access capabilities on some devices, for example. There have been some recent negatives for Verizon, such as the controversy over their initial refusal to let an abortion-rights group run a text messaging campaign (Verizon backed off when this became a significant media story). There's also the issue of Verizon deploying mistyped domain names DNS redirection in a manner reminiscent in some ways of VeriSign's much criticized Site Finder service. So overall, while it appears that Verizon is moving in a positive direction in some key respects -- and again their stance against content filtering is a very good sign -- we should keep in mind that there are complex and changing dynamics in play (including political ones) that will require continuous appraisal. --Lauren-- NNSquad Moderator