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Last updated: Monday, August 3, 2009

The Federal Communications Commission sent letters to Apple, AT&T and Google on Friday requesting further information concerning recent news reports that Apple has banned the sale of a Google Voice app and has removed related — and previously approved — third-party offerings from its iPhone App Store. Incoming FCC Chairman Julius Genachowski said Apple’s decision raises questions about certain practices in the mobile marketplace. “The FCC has a mission to foster a competitive wireless marketplace, protect and empower consumers, and promote innovation and investment,” Genachowski said. “The wireless bureau’s inquiry letters to these companies about their practices reflect the commission’s proactive approach to getting the facts and data necessary to make the best policy decisions on behalf of the American people.” ‘Potential Gatekeeper Control’ Based on the VoIP technology that Google acquired through its purchase of Grand Central in 2007, Google Voice enables a number of features at no cost, including free voice calls and conference calling. The nation’s wireless carriers currently charge for those features. What’s more, Google’s service makes it possible for users to designate a single number for all incoming calls and text messages. Additionally, Google Voice converts traditional voice mail into written transcripts that are sent to users as e-mail messages. The FCC’s action is part of a wider mobile-industry inquiry launched in June at the request of influential senators on Capitol Hill. Among other things, the FCC will investigate whether handset exclusivity arrangements — such as AT&T’s arrangement for Apple’s iPhone — end up harming consumers and thwarting competition from smaller wireless rivals operating on a regional basis. “We should always be concerned about potential gatekeeper control,” said former FCC Chairman Michael Copps last year. “That is why, from the very beginning, I have supported an open Internet, Internet freedom, network neutrality, or whatever you want to call…

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FCC Probes Apple, AT&T in Banning of Google Voice

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