David Heath
Sunday, 02 August 2009 20:32
Business IT -
Technology
Page 1 of 2
Apple has rejected the Google Voice iPhone application for publication via the AppStore. The FCC wants to know why.
Firstly, let's start with a few facts.
- Google developed an iPhone VoIP application (called Google Voice) which was rejected for distribution via the App Store.
- After the Google application was rejected, previously approved third-party VoIP applications were also suddenly removed.
- In the US, the iPhone is exclusively linked to the AT&T network.
Note that iTWire first observed the rejection of Google's app
late last week.
Interestingly, the FCC has acted in this matter without a formal complaint (as far as can be determined). However, they have sent three separate letters to the primary protagonists, the text of which is linked for
Apple, for
AT&T and for
Google.
The text of these letters is very interesting; I suggest the reader looks closely at them.
To Apple, the FCC asked (amongst a total of six questions): "Why did Apple reject the Google Voice application for iPhone and remove related third-party applications from its App Store? In addition to Google Voice, which related third-party applications were removed or have been rejected? Please provide the specific name of each application and the contact information for the developer.
"Did Apple act alone, or in consultation with AT&T, in deciding to reject the Google Voice application and related applications? If the latter, please describe the communications between Apple and AT&T in connection with the decision to reject Google Voice. Are there any contractual conditions or non-contractual understandings with AT&T that affected Apple's decision in this matter?"
Read on for the inquisition of the other players.
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