In a move many are suggesting is a response to Android and Google’s push for open-access on cellular networks, Verizon Wireless announced that they would be opening up to any device or software that “meets the minimum technical standards”.  While traditionally Verizon - and other telcos - have been protective about their network, customising devices carefully so as to prevent unauthorised use or modification, from early next year a set of technical standards will be released so as to guide the development community.  At the same time, CDMA devices (either newly created or brought over from rival network Sprint) will be activated on the Verizon Wireless network.

“It’s subject to imagination.  It encourages anyone who wants to get in the game to get in the game” John Stratton, chief marketing officer, Verizon

At the same time, the company itself will experiment with new devices and software, and hopes to have alternative cellphones and applications available by the end of next year.  It’s seen as an addition, rather than a replacement, to their core market, with the primary monetisation coming from predicted increased data use.  Verizon declined to discuss possible pricing structures for data used in this way.

While Stratton did acknowledge that devices built around Google’s Android platform could, if they met the minimum standards, operate on the Verizon network, he denied that this was an indication either way that the network intends to join the Open Handset Alliance.  Meanwhile, some commentators have dismissed the network’s move, suggesting that thanks to the paucity of unconnected CDMA handsets and the likelihood of relatively stringent data fees the whole thing has been more of a publicity exercise than a true move for freedom of device movement.