Verizon, a major backbone and wireless carrier, and Google, a major application provider, recently withdrew from FCC sponsored deliberations on net neutrality and proposed their own alternative. Net neutrality can be defined as treating all internet protocol packets the same, without regard to origin, destination, or application. The Verizon/Google proposal suggests that the wired Internet treat most packets the same but that wireless data carriers be allowed to discriminate as long as they publish what they are doing.

Now iPhone users understand the application of this proposal all too well. We have been liiving with an AT&T decided and Apple imposed regime like this since the beginning of the Apple/AT&T exclusivity agreement. We will continue to live with it until carrier competition comes to the iPhone.

If you like the idea that AT&T can restrict applications that it does not like, things like voice over IP, video, and tethering, then you will love Verizon/Google. If you like the idea that the carrier can allow one application provider while excluding their direct competitor, then you will love Verizon/Google If you like agreements in restraint of trade, like Apple/AT&T, you will love Verizon/Google. If you believe that Google will “do no evil,” then you will love Verizon/Google. If you like that carriers finance a discount on your handheld computer by locking you into multi-thousand dollar contract, you are going to love Verizon/Google.

I have been surprised that Verizon/Google has been met with so little resistance. Perhaps those who are not iPhone/AT&T customers do not appreciate the implications. It seems clear that Verizon/Google is the future.

I have been surprised that no manufacturer has elected to offer a multi-carrier device. I escape many AT&T restrictions by using my Verizon MIFi card.

I have hedged my bets by owning a little stock in Apple, AT&T, Google, and Verizon.