Just another WordPress weblog

After Verizon announced an open handset initiative, the only logical step from that point was to join up with Google’s Open Handset Alliance, and adopt Android, their in-the-works open-source mobile operating system. While there was some question regarding Verizon’s intentions prior to yesterday, CEO Lowell McAdam made everything clear to BusinessWeek.

“We’re planning on using Android,” McAdam told BusinessWeek. “Android is an enabler of what we do.”

This, of course, is a good sign for people like us, who are totally in favor of open access. This might not be true open access, but it’s certainly closer than we were even a month ago.

McAdam told BusinessWeek that going with an open model helps cut down on overhead, since they will only have to test new devices instead of working closely with manufacturers on the handsets. It will also open up the opportunity for many more devices. Right now, Verizon has less than 100 handsets available but the carrier could eventually support hundreds of phones and devices. And going with an open model or with Android also invites a slew of applications, many more than the 800 Verizon currently offers.

So it’s win-win. Verizon spends less money on handset development, and the consumer gets far more options from which to choose, including handsets and the applications that run on them.

Just a stray thought: Might this affect the bids on the 700 MHz auction? After all, it’s been rumored that Google may be in the auction to lose it. We’re not sure why they would adopt that strategy, but it does fit in nicely with the new Verizon alliance.

[The Tech Chronicles]

Share on Facebook | Add to De.licio.us | Digg This! | Technorati