Google, Verizon Agreement and Proposal Leaves Industry Watchers Wary
When news of Google’s and Verizon’s possible Net Neutrality agreement hit the wire, some suggested it was the end of the internet as we know it. While that remains to be seen, it does seem plausible to think Google was selling it’s soul for preferential treatment from one of the nation’s largest broadband providers.
Initially, both companies denied that they had held conversations at all. Now, they have both announced that they have agreed on a proposal that “would move the net neutrality issue forward”. Google CEO Eric Schmidt has emphatically denied there is any business arrangement. Both companies released a statement that said their goal is to “find ways to protect the future openness of the Internet and encourage the rapid deployment of broadband.”
While their joint statement is encouraging at first glance, the details have yet to be seen. Also, this is merely a suggestion to Congress, so it doesn’t have any real sway yet. It can be scary to see two very powerful tech companies talk about a “deal”. Perhaps they’re being honest. Perhaps they really want to protect the public’s access to information. I would be wary, though. They will only pursue these goals insofar as it helps their bottom line.