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August 3, 2009
FCC Launches Inquiry Into Google Voice iPhone App Rejection
DowJones is reporting that the FCC is looking into the reason for the Google Voice application being rejected for the iPhone. They've sent letters to Google, Apple and AT&T seeking answers as to why the VOIP (voice over the internet protocol) app was rejected. The inquiry is part of a larger investigation to handset maker and carriers having exclusive deals with each other. The iPhone is sold exclusively on AT&T in the United States.
Personally, when I heard that the Google Voice app was rejected, I thought it was a giant publicity stunt by Apple and Google to show that they're not really anticompetitive. The FTC recently launched their own investigation into the ties between the two.
For its part, AT&T says it has nothing to do with the approval or rejection of apps. But they might want to revise their official answer, since they did reject Slingbox.
AT&T is likely concerned about two things - iPhone customers using VOIP instead of their minutes, plus the use of bandwidth is becoming a problem for the carrier (according to them).
Google Voice can still be used with an iPhone, but it requires calling an extra step or two than a normal phone call.
Stay tuned for this unfolding drama.
Posted by Nathania Johnson on August 3, 2009 5:08 AM
Comments
vibaku August 3, 2009 7:24 AM
@Vibaku, you must realize though that Google can pose many benefits. You can add it to your MyFavs for T-Mobile, and never use any of your minutes. You can also get GREAT deals on international calling, as little as 2 cents a minute to some places that T-Mobile (speaking about them as that is my mobile service provider; not sure of other companies) charge nearly a dollar per minute for.
Michael Hart August 3, 2009 3:36 PM
This is normal for large corporations. If they think anyone can get something for nothing they will try to stop it and profit on it.
Gregg
GreggP@icminc.com
Gregg August 3, 2009 10:55 PM
That's interesting, especially in the light of Eric Schmidt leaving the Apple board.
thinkflex August 5, 2009 6:08 AM
Wow. I hate apple.
Nick September 20, 2009 4:37 AM
Google Voice does not replace any phone service. You still need AT&T (or whomever is your telephony provider). The only thing Google Voice can make better for the consumer is better mobile international rates & free texting. International calling on a mobile device has always been ridiculous and texting prices are as well.