Verizon Says Come and Play

Yesterday, Verizon announced that it will be opening up its network to non-Verizon supplied devices. I believe the decision is of great significance and marks the beginning of a shift towards openness that will ultimately spread to all major wireless providers in North America.

“This is a transformation point in the 20-year history of mass market wireless devices – one which we believe will set the table for the next level of innovation and growth,” said Lowell McAdam, Verizon Wireless president and chief executive officer. “Verizon Wireless is not changing our successful retail model, but rather adding an additional retail option for customers looking for a different wireless experience.”

In my view, the trend towards toward openness is unstoppable. Verizon realizes that, if it does meet consumer demand, someone else will. As I mentioned in my TiVo post on Monday, consumer demand will prevail and defensive strategies are doomed to failure. The entrenched incumbents affected by the latest wave of technology-enabled innovation must embrace the change with new business models. Apparently, Verizon has seen the light.  Hello MPAA and RIAA, are you paying attention?

Ultimately the move to open systems will lead to lower prices, innovative products and services, productivity improvements and improved competition for North American business in the global economy.

The next few years will be very interesting, bring it on!

Rick McCharles
Telecom Consultant, Toronto
RIC Services

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