Looks like AT&T failed to make calls over Google Voice to "adult-chat lines and conference call services." Perhaps they were trying to save money by going through Google Voice. In any case, they have made a complaint to FCC over the matter. AT&T has also accused Google of violating "net neutrality".
Mean while Google did admit that it is blocking calls to "adult chat lines and conference-call centers, which charge higher access fees to carriers." Perhaps AT&T was just trying to get back at Google for complaining to FCC on Google Voice.
AT&T must be familier with the issue as according to Gizmodo, FCC reprimanded AT&T for not connecting numbers to rural phone companies who were overcharging in 2007.
Google's Richard Whitt, Washington Telecom and Media Counsel, said in a blog post, "Response to AT&T's letter to FCC on Google Voice" that Google Voice is different from a traditional phone service because consumers can use it only if they already have phone service. Therefor it is not bound by rules that govern entities like AT&T.
Google also gave a response for the "Net Neutrality" claim saying that
"The FCC's open Internet principles apply only to the behavior of broadband carriers -- not the creators of Web-based software applications. Even though the FCC does not have jurisdiction over how software applications function, AT&T apparently wants to use the regulatory process to undermine Web-based competition and innovation.The post further stated that
AT&T Fail! But that is only my view, there are many others who feel differently and follow the link below and read the comments.
- Unlike traditional carriers, Google Voice is a free, Web-based software application, and so not subject to common carrier laws.
- Google Voice is not intended to be a replacement for traditional phone service -- in fact, you need an existing land or wireless line in order to use it. Importantly, users are still able to make outbound calls on any other phone device.
- Google Voice is currently invitation-only, serving a limited number of users.
Google public policy Blog
Gizmodo don't forget to follow the comments!
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