Posts Tagged net neutrality

Telia scraps plans to charge extra for mobile VoIP in Sweden, hikes overall rates in compensation

Posted by admin in News on September 27, 2012

check here

Telia scraps plans to have cellphone users pay extra for VoIP in Sweden, hikes overall rates in compensation

Telia raised hackles in March when it proposed charging Swedish subscribers extra if they wanted to use voice over IP. On top of the net neutrality issues, the proposed price premium would have been a slap in the face to Skype, the country’s homegrown VoIP pioneer. While Telia’s Spanish subsidiary Yoigo has no problems with such a split, Telia itself must have had a change of heart: as of now, all regular plans will continue to treat internet telephony as just another set of data packets. Only a new, ultra-basic Telia Flex Bas plan excises the option. Unfortunately, most everyone will have to pay the price for equality — new subscriptions will have their data plans “adjusted” to compensate for increasing data use, and those paying daily will see their maximum rates jump from 9 SEK ($1.40) to 19 SEK ($2.90). As painful as the price hike might sound, however, we’d still endure it to avoid carving the mobile internet into pieces.

Filed under: , ,

Telia scraps plans to charge extra for mobile VoIP in Sweden, hikes overall rates in compensation originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 27 Sep 2012 02:07:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink ZDNet  |  sourceTelia (PDF)  | Email this | Comments

, , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

No Comments

Verizon Files Appeal Against FCC, Says Net Neutrality Violates the Carrier’s Free Speech

Posted by admin in News on July 5, 2012

Net Neutrality has far reaching implications considering that the internet has an influence on almost every gadget released these days. The deal is far from being settled, it’s going to be a few years before we get an understanding of what can be censored on the web and what can’t, but right now, Verizon thinks the [...]

Click through to continue reading…

, , , , , , , , , , ,

No Comments

AT&T stockholders vote down net neutrality proposal

Posted by admin in News on April 27, 2012

AT&T stockholders vote down net neutrality

AT&T stockholders took to the ballot box today at their annual meeting and voted not only to reelect the entire board of directors, but also on a number of measures concerning how the company should conduct business. Chief amongst them was a provision that would have required the carrier to operate its network according to the tenets of net neutrality. Unfortunately for you (unless you’re an AT&T exec), the proposal was voted down by a pretty stunning margin. 94.1 percent of shareholders opposed, with only 5.9 casting their voice in favor of true network neutrality. For more info check out the PR after the break.

Continue reading AT&T stockholders vote down net neutrality proposal

AT&T stockholders vote down net neutrality proposal originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 27 Apr 2012 16:28:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink   |   | Email this | Comments

, , , , , , , , , , , ,

No Comments

SEC sides with Beastie Boys’ Mike D, says AT&T must allow shareholder vote on net neutrality

Posted by admin in News on February 15, 2012

Michael Diamond may be best known as Mike D of the Beastie Boys, but he’s also an AT&T shareholder, and he’s now played a central role in forcing a shareholder vote on net neutrality. He, along with his wife Tamra Davis and John P. Silva of Silva Artist Management previously submitted a proposal to AT&T arguing that shareholders should be allowed to vote a resolution that recommended the company “publicly commit to operate its wireless broadband network consistent with network neutrality principles.” AT&T unsurprisingly rejected that proposal, stating that it would “directly interfere with its network management practices,” but the SEC has now stepped in and said that net neutrality has become a “significant policy consideration,” and that it can no longer be excluded from shareholder ballots. As Bloomberg Businessweek notes, companies can challenge the SEC’s findings in court, although it remains to be seen if AT&T or other carriers will take that step. No further word from Mike D on the matter, so we’ll take this opportunity to share another important message of his after the break.

[Image credit: Fabio Venni / Wikimedia Commons]

Continue reading SEC sides with Beastie Boys’ Mike D, says AT&T must allow shareholder vote on net neutrality

SEC sides with Beastie Boys’ Mike D, says AT&T must allow shareholder vote on net neutrality originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 15 Feb 2012 19:37:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink   |  sourceBloomberg Businessweek  | Email this | Comments

, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

No Comments

Bill In US Senate Wants To Force Carriers To Say Just How Fast And Expansive Their "4G" Is, Carriers Respond Predictably

Posted by admin in News on October 13, 2011

4g-speed1

4G. The acronym is probably the most abused term in tech industry since "HD." And if you spend as much time reading up on mobile phone news as us (we hope you don’t, that’s what we’re for!), you probably have come to the same conclusion: it’s almost without meaning, constantly misrepresented, and defined on a completely subjective basis. We don’t like any of this.

Neither do some of the members of congress, apparently. Today, a bill was introduced in the U.S. Senate that would require carriers to disclose the following information to consumers about their supposed "4G" services:

    …

    Official Android Police t-shirts are now on sale, with over 25 designs to call yours.

    Done With This Post? You Might Also Like These:

    Bill In US Senate Wants To Force Carriers To Say Just How Fast And Expansive Their "4G" Is, Carriers Respond Predictably was written by the awesome team at Android Police.


    , , , , , , , , ,

    No Comments

    FCC Files Motion To Dismiss Verizon’s Net Neutrality Suit

    Posted by admin in News on October 7, 2011

    This image has no alt text

    The FCC has filed a motion to dismiss Verizon’s lawsuit against the FCC’s net neutrality order. We told you guys a few days ago how Verizon was simply “not having it” with the guidlines set in the FCC’s “Open Internet” rules going into effect on November 20th. According to Verizon, the FCC has overstepped its bounds and is “deeply concerned” over the FCC’s new regulation of the internet and broadband networks. Verizon believes that their suit is valid because the FCC modified its radio licenses.

    Of course, the FCC doesn’t quite see it that way. They stated that statutes exist that give it (the FCC) the authority to create and enforce such rules. The FCC further went on to explain,

    “Verizon’s theory of jurisdiction is that the FCC modified its radio licenses within [certain statutes] because the Open Internet Order cited the agency’s authority to modify licenses, among numerous other statutory bases of authority.”

    “Notice of Appeal, however, applies only when this Court is asked to review an FCC order that modifies specific individual licenses. It does not apply to review of generally applicable commission orders that, like the Open Internet Order, regulate a broad camp of licensees as a class. Jurisdiction over the Open Internet Order thus lies only under [a specific section] and Verizon’s notice of appeal in Case 11-1355 should be dismissed for lack of jurisdiction."

    Check and mate. Can’t say I ever wanted the government to have to step in like this but let’s hope this shuts up Big Red (at least for a little while).

    [FCC via PhoneScoop]


    , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

    No Comments

    Verizon Doesn’t Like The Idea Of “Open Internet” – Appeals FCC Net Neutrality Decision

    Posted by admin in News on October 1, 2011

    This image has no alt text

    Verizon doesn’t like the idea of “open internet.” At least not the idea of it potentially cutting into their profits. Today, Verizon filed an appeal in federal court claiming the rules of “Net Neutrality” are unnecessary and will create confusion for investors.  Verizon released this statement on their website:

    Verizon is fully committed to an open Internet. We are deeply concerned by the FCC’s assertion of broad authority to impose potentially sweeping and unneeded regulations on broadband networks and services and on the Internet itself. We believe this assertion of authority is inconsistent with the statute and will create uncertainty for the communications industry, innovators, investors and consumers.

    The Net Neutrality ruling just became official last week and if you haven’t been keeping up to date with your tech news, says that carriers can’t block legit law-abiding sites (or apps) that directly compete with their service. For instance, it would be like AT&T blocking you from visiting competing carrier Sprint’s website. Not cool, right? Here’s what the FCC had to say about the new Net Neutrality regulation that goes into effect November 20th.

    First, transparency: fixed and mobile broadband providers must disclose the network management practices, performance characteristics, and commercial terms of their broadband services. Second, no blocking: fixed broadband providers may not block lawful content, applications, services, or non-harmful devices; mobile broadband providers may not block lawful websites, or block applications that compete with their voice or video telephony services. Third, no unreasonable discrimination: fixed broadband providers may not unreasonably discriminate in transmitting lawful network traffic.

    The internet should be free and open (we like that word around here). Anyone that disagrees well, probably has the title of CEO somewhere in their name.

    [Phonescoop via Gizmodo]


    , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

    No Comments

    Engadget Mobile Podcast 093 – 06.25.2011

    Posted by admin in News on June 25, 2011

    If we had to make one Seinfeld joke about this week’s Engadget Mobile Podcast, it would be “WHAT is the DEAL with Nokia?!” The gentle Finnish giant had a lot of weird and wonderful things up its giant-sized sleeve, and it’ll take the giants of Mobile Tech podcasting to run through it all, so you’ll be clicking that play/download link presently…if you don’t want us to come let our anaconda loose in your house.

    Hosts: Myriam Joire (tnkgrl), Vlad Savov
    Guest: Brad Molen
    Producer: Trent Wolbe
    Music: Daestro – Light Powered (Ghostly International)

    00:01:30 – Nokia N9 first hands-on! (update: video)
    00:19:50 – Editorial: Dear Nokia, you cannot be serious!
    00:22:17 – Nokia’s first Windows Phone: images and video, codenamed ‘Sea Ray’
    00:27:05 – Nokia’s Android flirtations revealed
    00:37:00 – Atrix 4G bootloader unlocked: you can hack it up today or wait for official Gingerbread update
    00:43:42 – HTC EVO 4G+ official, but is it destined for Sprint?
    00:49:30 – Sharp Aquos SH-12C 3D smartphone hands-on (video)
    01:05:12 – Verizon’s ‘DataGate’ plans leaked in excruciating detail
    01:18:13 – Dutch net neutrality first in EU, mobile operators side-eye KPN
    01:22:18 – Prototype dual-screened 2-in-1 Android smartpad from Imerj preview


    Hear the podcast

    Subscribe to the podcast
    [iTunes] Subscribe to the Podcast directly in iTunes
    [RSS MP3] Add the Engadget Mobile Podcast feed (in MP3) to your RSS aggregator and have the show delivered automatically
    [RSS AAC] Add the Engadget Mobile Podcast feed (in enhanced AAC) to your RSS aggregator
    [Zune] Subscribe to the Podcast directly in the Zune Marketplace

    Download the podcast
    LISTEN (MP3)
    LISTEN (AAC)

    Contact the podcast
    podcast (at) engadgetmobile (dot) com.

    Follow us on Twitter
    @tnkgrl @vladsavov @engadgetmobile

    Engadget Mobile Podcast 093 – 06.25.2011 originally appeared on Engadget Mobile on Sat, 25 Jun 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

    Permalink | Email this | Comments

    , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

    No Comments

    Editorial: That Verizon Tethering FCC Complaint? It’s Not Going To Do Anything, Here’s Why

    Posted by admin in News on June 7, 2011

    fcc-150x150

    If you’ve been watching the blogosphere over the last few days, you might have seen an article or two about a "complaint" filed with the FCC over Verizon’s block on tethering applications in the Android Market.

    The complainant’s argument goes something like this: Verizon purchased the 700MHz spectrum ("block C" of the spectrum) back in 2007, and that spectrum is now used by Verizon for its 4G LTE service. That purchase, ala Google and other net neutrality lobbyists, came with one seemingly large caveat: Verizon (or AT&T, or anyone who bought in that spectrum) could not "deny, limit, or…

    Official Android Police t-shirts are now on sale, with over 25 designs to call yours. Discount coupons also available.

    Done With This Post? You Might Also Like These:

    Editorial: That Verizon Tethering FCC Complaint? It’s Not Going To Do Anything, Here’s Why was written by the awesome team at Android Police.


    , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

    No Comments

    Dutch telco KPN using deep packet inspection to monitor mobile customers, throttle services

    Posted by admin in News on May 12, 2011

    KPN

    KPN set off some alarms in Holland last month when it announced a plan to start charging customers separate fees for using VoIP, streaming video, and sending instant messages. But, the question remained: how exactly would it keep mobile data users honest? The answer turns out to be deep packet inspection, which examines network traffic to identify what you’re sending and where it’s going. It’s been suspected that the secret ingredient in KNP’s service-throttling sauce was DPI, but it was finally confirmed in a presentation to investors recently. In fact, Mark Fisher, the director of KPN Mobile, bragged that it was the “very first” provider to be “able to identify by deep packet inspection what is actually the destination as data packages go along.” Predictably, privacy and net neutrality advocates are up in arms, with some claiming it is a violation of the Dutch Data Protection Act. We just hope someone nips this in the bud soon — we don’t need American carriers knowing about our Scottish Fold obsession. Check out the source link for an audio clip of Fisher’s confession.

    [Thanks, Daan]

    Dutch telco KPN using deep packet inspection to monitor mobile customers, throttle services originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 12 May 2011 17:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

    Permalink | Email this | Comments

    , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

    No Comments

    The Engadget Show returns next Thursday, April 21st — win a ticket to the taping!

    Posted by admin in News on April 15, 2011

    Attention humans, the Engadget Show will be taping next Thursday, April 21st at 6:00pm! We’ll be sitting down with Engadget founder Peter Rojas who will help us wade through the increasingly muddy tablet waters. We’ll have on hand the new BlackBerry PlayBook, the Motorola Xoom, the Notion Ink Adam, and a few other slates to boot. We’ll unfold the Kyocera Echo, take a look at the current status of net neutrality, go for a crazy ride on a militarized scooter, and have a chat with Ford President and CEO Alan Mulally to find out when we’ll finally get our flying car. And of course we’ll have the usual fun, excitement, giveaways, and surprises!

    The Engadget Show is sponsored by Sprint and will take place in a new, more intimate NYC studio this month’s show, so if you want to get in you’ll need to win a ticket in advance. But don’t worry, if you can’t get there in person we’ll have a download up soon after taping.

    If you want to be one of the lucky ones to meet us in person, Sprint is offering guaranteed tickets to The Engadget Show taping to the first entrants who text “ENGADGET” to 467467 or enter online! Standard text messaging rates apply. Click for the Official Rules and see how to enter online, and as always you don’t have to be a Sprint subscriber to enter!

    If you live outside of the tri-state area (NY, NJ, CT), you can enter online for a chance to win a trip for two to New York City to attend The Engadget Show. Standard text messaging rates apply. Click here to enter.

    Here’s all the details if you win a ticket:

    • The event is all ages
    • We’ll open doors and begin seating at 5:15pm on April 21st, and the taping begins at 6:00PM. We’ll be closing the doors at 5:50PM.
    • Please bring a photo ID with you to claim your ticket
    • The show length is around an hour

    If you’re a member of the media who wishes to attend, please contact us at: engadgetshowmedia [at] engadget [dot] com, and we’ll try to accommodate you. All other non-media questions can be sent to: engadgetshow [at] engadget [dot] com.

    Subscribe to the Show:

    [iTunes] Subscribe to the Show directly in iTunes (M4V).
    [Zune] Subscribe to the Show directly in the Zune Marketplace (M4V).
    [RSS M4V] Add the Engadget Show feed (M4V) to your RSS aggregator and have it delivered automatically.

    The Engadget Show returns next Thursday, April 21st — win a ticket to the taping! originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 15 Apr 2011 19:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

    Permalink | Email this | Comments

    , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

    No Comments

    Verizon and MetroPCS objections to FCC net neutrality rules dismissed in case of premature litigation

    Posted by admin in News on April 4, 2011

    The FCC wants to put new rules in place ensuring access to the web is, like justice, blind to where a person is coming from and indifferent to where on the web he is going to. Verizon’s first reaction to these new directives was to publicly decry them as overreaching, and its second was to file a lawsuit, one that was swiftly echoed by MetroPCS. Only problem with their plans? The rules haven’t yet been published in the Federal Register, which renders the legal challenges from the two eager mobile carriers “incurably” premature. Such was the determination of the US Court of Appeals, which refused to make a substantive ruling and just threw the cases out due to the technicality. Verizon isn’t discouraged, however, and promises to bide its time until all the dominoes have fallen into place before launching another legal attack. Hey, whatever keeps those lawyers in their fancy suits.

    Verizon and MetroPCS objections to FCC net neutrality rules dismissed in case of premature litigation originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 04 Apr 2011 17:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

    Permalink | Email this | Comments

    , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

    No Comments