Biff, Pow, Bam! Verizon Wireless Opens Up.

Crying out loud Batman! Rumors were AT&T was going to open up their network but it looks like Verizon Wireless mght beat them to it? Essentially if you walk into a Verizon store late next year with anything meeting the requirements they will let you on. Not only that but up to you being a good player, will let you use any application on the device that you wish. [Please don't spam from your smart phone ok?]

From RCR –

Verizon Wireless announced this morning a major shift in its position on non-carrier-offered devices and applications, saying it will begin activating any device that meets a “minimum technical standard” and will allow “any application the customer chooses” to be used on the devices. The carrier said the new option will be available to customers throughout the country by the end of next year.

Verizon Wireless’ embrace of open-access principles precedes the January start of the 700 MHz auction, which includes an open-access provision. It also follows the settlement of a recent class-action lawsuit over handset locking.

“This is a transformation point in the 20-year history of mass market wireless devices—one which we believe will set the table for the next level of innovation and growth,” said Lowell McAdam, Verizon Wireless president and CEO. He added that the company “is not changing our successful retail model, but rather adding an additional retail option for customers looking for a different wireless experience.”

Can I say this is great? Sure. This is great and glad to see it. Of course you do Dear Reader, understand that this is a defensive play to extend the use of the current infrastructure don’t you? All you need to know as to WHY is listed in the 2nd graph of the excerpted article above. The Verizon announcement is also a Verizon ploy to placate Commissioner Martin as well. Seeing as how the 700mhz rules specify openness. In a $ matched bid the provider that meets the specifications in current technology might get the nod over another bidder who does not. Remember something else — ThirdPipe told you this would happen.

Kudos to Verizon for seeing the light. Should have done it sooner. ThirdPipe readers, be a good consumer and don’t run down to the VZ store just yet. Verizon probably won’t be ready till mid-year ‘08 to serve you with ‘foreign’ devices.

Full article.