Skype asks FCC to open up cellular networks

SKYPE ASKS FCC TO OPEN UP CELLULAR NETWORKS
[SOURCE: Ars Technica, AUTHOR: Nate Anderson]
[Commentary] Skype has petitioned the FCC to act against wireless phone carriers who "limit subscribers' right to run software communications applications of their choosing" (read: Skype software). Skype wants the agency to more stringently apply the famous 1968 Carterfone decision that allowed consumers to hook any device up to the phone network, so long as it did not harm the network. In Skype's eyes, that means allowing any software or applications to run on any devices that access the network. The reason for Skype's interest in the issue is obvious: the company wants to force network operators to allow Skype-enabled calling across their networks, something currently prohibited on wireless data plans. In its filing, Skype argues that this capability would offer "tremendous new sources of price competition provided by entities such as Skype," and that's exactly why wireless operators will fight the plan tooth and nail.
http://arstechnica.com/news.ars/post/20070221-8895.html