Verizon’s “Open Network”

[TAG] Verizon, ATT, AT&T, mobile, mobile phone, cell, cell phone [/TAG]

Several weeks ago, Verizon announced its intention to create an “open network” where third party mobile devices will be allowed to use thier network starting sometime in 2008. The announcment was praised by Microsoft but I will have to see it to believe it. There are a few bugs that I see cropping up in this thing.

1. Verizon will require that the phone goes through a testing department to ensure that it meets with thier qualifications to be used on thier network, which means you can’t just go out and buy any phone. You will need to contact Verizon to ensure it passed the tests, or rely on the manufacturer to put some sort of “Verizon Compatible” sticker on the box.

2. Verizon uses CDMA technology. This means that first, you can’t use any phone that uses a SIM card, which ATT, T-Mobile and most other cell phone companies use (Including overseas). Also referred to as the GSM technology. Secondly, CDMA technology does not allow you to switch phones when you want to. You have to contact Verizon for assistance, which means if the device isn’t on their “approved” list, you’re out of luck.

3. The testing facility will be operated by Verizon and it has yet to be built. Also, mobile device manufacturers are worried about how much it will cost and how long it will take to get their devices approved and this may deter them from even trying. The way I see it, CDMA technology is an aging dinosaur getting ready to become a fossil. Unless they update their systems I see them going out of business within 10 years time. Let’s face it, GSM/UMTS far out performs CDMA for data, multitasking, email, etc. People want more bells and whistles all the time and CDMA is pretty much tapped out.

My point is, I think this is more of an attempt to draw attention to Verizon and get their customers up in any way they can. How much you want to bet that this thing will get delayed more than once and eventually be put on the shelf?