How Google Forced Verizon to Allow Smartphone Tethering - Technology Review

Another step on the road to ubiquitous and cost-effective wireless

"A $4.6 billion gamble made by Google back in 2007 caused the Federal Communications Commission to declare that smartphone users must be allowed to use their devices to connect computers or other gadgets to the Internet yesterday, and landed cellular carrier Verizon with a $1.25 million fine. That was the result of FCC charges that Verizon should not be charging extra for the act of “tethering” a smartphone’s mobile Internet connection to a computer. As well as charging $20 a month for that privilege, Verizon had reportedly pressured Google to block tethering apps from its mobile app store."

How Google Forced Verizon to Allow Smartphone Tethering - Technology Review