Google defends itself as FCC asks for more information

Google is obviously annoyed with the fact that AT&T is stirring the pot, and in their words, using "regulatory capitalism" to block or slow down innovation. This is turning into a fairly heated debate, and is getting more interesting all the time.

Google defends its position of being a web-based service that simply enhances existing phone lines, rather than being a phone service itself. This isn't how AT&T sees it though -- if they are forced to pay the inflated termination rates in these rural areas, Google should too.

Instead of arguing if Google should be required to follow the rules, maybe it's time for the FCC to put a stop to the underlying issue -- the high fees being charged by rural areas in partnership with sex lines and "free" conference calling services.

What do you think? Should Google be forced to play by these rules? Or should they be exempt because they are simply a web-based service that enhances existing phones lines?