Idiocy from USAToday

Leslie Cauley, writing for USAToday:

Apple’s (AAPL) unique treatment of the new Skype Internet calling feature on the iPhone — the free app works only on Wi-Fi, not the cellular or 3G network — is raising concern among public-policymakers and consumer advocates.

They say it’s a clear example of AT&T (T), the sole carrier of the iPhone in the U.S., trying to handicap a direct competitor.

First of all, AT&T is a wireless provider. Skype is a (psuedo) wireless provider. Why should AT&T be required to allow access to Skype over it’s 3G network? AT&T has every right to deny Apple and Skype the ability to route VoIP calls over it’s 3G network.

Leslie’s article quotes acting FCC Chairman Michael Cops:

“In the fast-changing world of technology, you have to constantly revisit the rules and regulations to make sure they’re in accord with the real world.”

The one thing missing from the article – which qualifies it for idiocy – is that there is no mention of the iPod Touch.

You see, you can completely bypass AT&T by using a 2nd generation iPod Touch with Skype. Of course, you are still required to make your calls over WiFi, but you also don’t get locked in to a long term AT&T contract.

Of course, citing that fact would have made all of the whining in the article seem childish, so I can fully understand Ms. Cauley not bringing that fact up.

Category: News