FCC Downs Skype’s Plan For Open Wireless Networks

Skype has long been pushing to transform the nation’s wireless network into something akin to the POTS network — wherein any device or application can connect, provided it does no damage to the network. They petitioned the FCC to force wireless providers to open their networks. 

Yesterday, FCC Chairmen Kevin Martin said: Sorry, no:

"In light of the (wireless) industry’s embrace of a more open wireless platform, it would be premature to adopt any other requirements across the industry," Martin said in prepared remarks at the annual U.S. wireless industry trade show in Las Vegas.

To cheers from the audience of mobile industry insiders, Martin said he was opposing the Skype petition because of a need to strike a balance between supporting innovation and investments in network infrastructure by telephone companies