A fascinating fight now developing between Google and AT&T. It's a sign that AT&T is starting to take Google seriously and goes to the issue of Google's growing power in the market.
The phone carrier has asked the Federal Communications Commission to investigate Google, claiming that the Google Voice service's blocking of some phone numbers violates federal rules.
Even more fascinating to read Google's response , claiming that the FCC does not have jurisdiction over how software applications function.
Google says: "Unlike traditional carriers, Google Voice is a free, Web-based software application, and so not subject to common carrier laws. Google Voice is not intended to be a replacement for traditional phone service – in fact, you need an existing land or wireless line in order to use it. Importantly, users are still able to make outbound calls on any other phone device."
Now, that's an interesting argument. Regardless of whether or not it's a software application, Google is still in effect providing a phone service. Mind you, having used AT&T when I'm in the US, I am just hoping that this latest spat might force the phone carrier to become more customer focused. But then, that's a dream.
At the same time, Google claims that Apple rejected Google Voice from its App Store.
One thing for sure, this battle is going to get meaner and nastier as Google's power grows. But until it starts abusing that power, it's hard to see regulators cracking down on the company.
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