I’m no expert on the wireless business but my instinct is that Verizon Wireless just made a shrewd move.  They are opening up their network to any third party hardware and are going to allow any application to work on said hardware.  Some folks think they’re doing it because of Google’s recent announcements about their plans for wireless, and others think it has to do with the upcoming FCC auction of the 700mhz spectrum which will require the winner to enable consumers to access their network with any device or software they wish.

What I think this means is that we’re moving closer to having wireless services similar to Korea’s and Japan’s.  In short order I think you’re going to see the other providers do the same thing in order to stay competitive, and then you’re going to see an explosion of innovation for your phone(s).

I’ve been a Verizon Wireless customer for years, not because I love going to their store and navigating their byzantine pricing plans, but because they provide more consistent coverage in my town.  Heck, they’re the only one that provides a decent signal in my house.  Now if I can get any phone or software I want to go along with that strong signal I might actually like being their customer.