Google on Thursday fired back at critics of its net neutrality policy proposal with Verizon. In a nutshell, Google said it wasn't a sell out, hasn't shelved wireless net neutrality plans and denied it's working with Verizon because of its Android ties.
Google is trying to tone down the hubbub over its proposal with Verizon. As noted yesterday, the emotions around the policy proposal by Google and Verizon are running high.
In a blog post, Google's Washington counsel Richard Whitt tried to debunk "a number of inaccuracies" to move the debate along. Among the key highlights:
It’s also important to keep in mind that the future of wireless broadband increasingly will be found in the advanced, 4th generation (4G) networks now being constructed. Verizon will begin rolling out its 4G network this fall under openness license conditions that Google helped persuade the FCC to adopt. Clearwire is already providing 4G service in some markets, operating under a unique wholesale/openness business model. So consumers across the country are beginning to experience open Internet wireless platforms, which we hope will be enhanced and encouraged by our transparency proposal.
Meanwhile, Google chafed at the argument that the company is too tight with Verizon. Google said the companies outlined a policy proposal not a business deal. The idea is to advance the net neutrality debate that has gone nowhere for five years.