phone carriers should not restrict skype use…

by Chiyin on Apr 3rd, 2009 @ 3:23 pm

We all know why cellular carriers restrict the use of VoIP applications over their networks, they don’t want to give up all that money they make from voice plans. But restricting the use of apps such as Skype is just wrong, as an article from PC World has pointed out

The wireless carriers’ actions clearly violate Net neutrality principles too. As summarized by Brad Reed of Network World, the tenets of Net neutrality, as outlined by the Federal Communications Commission in 2005, clearly side with the consumer:

“These principles state that networks must allow users to access any lawful Internet content of their choice, to run any legal Web applications of their choice, and to connect to the network using any device that does not harm the network. Additionally, the principles state that consumers are ‘entitled to competition among network providers, application and service providers and content providers.’ ”

I never thought of this argument but it really makes sense. To have truly Net Neutrality all carriers and networks should abide by these principles. So, I think it’s time we start demanding all these wireless carriers to get in line and obey the rules…

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Apples & Oranges, iPhone, iPhone apps

Comments

    1.
  1. Justin
    April 3rd, 2009 5:52 pm

    “connect to the network using any device that does not harm the network.”

    I guess technically they could argue that the data from phone calls would damage the limited wireless network.

    Honestly, I don’t mind this limitation if the alternative is to raise the cost or limit the data plan.

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