On March 19th, Verizon moved a meaningful step closer to opening up its notoriously closed network by holding a conference for developers, clarifying protocol support and device support for its “Any Device, Any App” initiative announced in November of last year.
Part of that initiative involves a $20 million dollar commitment from Verizon to build a facility to test potential new devices.
Verizon’s November announcement came at an auspicious time as much chatter was traveling the internet about open access and discussions and sales of unlocked phones was increasing. Always a savvy marketer, Verizon got out in front and began distancing itself from its prior business model, one in which it’s reputation for demanding a standard user interface was widely known, to a more libertarian model where customers could bring their own phone to Verizon.
At the conference Verizon displayed flow charts explaining the protocols for retailers and manufacturers. The current model whereby a customer purchases a phone and signs an agreement with Verizon will change as it relates to open access; the retailer or manufacturer will become responsible for activating the phone rather than Verizon handling the process.
All approved devices must support E911, MEID, NAI and other requirements detailed by bother CDG and Verizon.
While Verizon originally stated that the turnaround time for a device from submission to approval would take about four weeks, it will likely be more like eight weeks since an additional two weeks needs to be added for infrastructure testing and two more weeks for field testing.
Verizon’s move toward open access will allow manufacturers to develop more imaginative and exciting devices for consumers, and despite their prior reputation for disabling features Verizon is investing big bucks in changing the landscape on how and what kinds of products will be brought to market.
Comments (0)
Post Your Comment