What it's like when the FCC does its job

It took Skype two years to finally make its way to the iPhone. And when it did, it only allowed calls over a Wi-Fi connection -- talking to friends over 3G was strictly prohibited. AT&T's network, we were told, could barely handle regular phone calls, let alone ones that took place over the Web. A million people downloaded the app in its first two days anyway. Over a year and a half later, that kind of limitation is regarded as what it is: anti-competitive. Last week, Skype released its latest app update, and it now lets you do more than just call somebody -- it lets you see your friend as you're talking to her, and lets her see you. It'll let you do this no matter what network you're using: Wi-Fi, 3G, whatever. Videochat isn't new, as you've no doubt learned from those treacly (yet effective) Apple commercials that promote the iPhone's FaceTime feature. But FaceTime is Wi-Fi-only; AT&T doesn't allow Apple to connect video chat over 3G. That Skype, a third-party company, now bests Apple at its own game is a remarkable about face from the way things were. Send your thank-you notes to the FCC. By asking a few questions, the FCC made 2010 the year that the iPhone platform was finally forced to play nice. The new Skype videochat feature is a fitting capstone. After more than two years of doublespeak, restrictions, and censorship, it appears the free and open mobile future we've dreamed about is upon us.