10 August 2010 | Author: D. Warburton Search Copywriter

Google-Verizon policy could end net neutrality for mobiles

Google and Verizon have unveiled a joint policy proposal outlining the future of internet regulations in the US, which could allow service providers to give priority to certain traffic on wireless and mobile networks.

While the New York Times may have jumped the gun when it inaccurately reported that the two companies were conspiring to end net neutrality last week, Richard Adams of the Guardian believes the truth is "potentially more worrying for US consumers and net users."

Under the new plan, the BBC reports that both companies favour an open internet for fixed line services, but offer 'loopholes' for mobile traffic and wireless services, which could see competing applications and content being blocked for mobile web users.

"We both recognise that wireless broadband is different from the traditional wireline world, in part because the mobile marketplace is more competitive and changing rapidly," both companies said in a statement.

"This is a real step forward," Google boss Eric Schmidt said, during a conference call.

Schmidt has made his views on the mobile web clear, previously stating that Google will be following a "mobile-first approach" going ahead that will see the sector become "fundamental to everything we do."

However, the CEO reaffirmed Google's commitment to net neutrality, stating: "Google cares a lot about the open internet. It has made it possible for its two founders to turn a powerful idea into this phenomenal business."

Nevertheless, other proponents of net neutrality are viewing the proposal differently.

"If codified, this arrangement will lead to toll booths on the information superhighway," said Joel Kelsey of public policy group Free Press.

"It would give companies like Verizon, Comcast and AT&T the right to decide which content will move fast and which should be slowed down.

"It will lead to outright blocking of applications and content on increasingly popular wireless platforms."

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