FAQs

  1. What is net neutrality?

    • Net neutrality is the principle that internet service providers (ISPs) should not discriminate against or favor certain types of internet traffic.
  2. What is AT&T accusing Google of?

    • AT&T accuses Google of violating net neutrality principles by blocking phone calls on its Google Voice service.
  3. What is Google’s defense?

    • Google argues that the net neutrality rules that apply to traditional phone companies do not apply to Google Voice.
  4. What is traffic pumping?

    • Traffic pumping is a practice where rural telephone carriers charge high rates to connect calls to their networks and then split the revenue with partners who attract many incoming calls.
  5. Why is AT&T upset about traffic pumping?

    • AT&T and other long-distance phone companies are concerned that traffic pumping increases their costs.
  6. What are common carrier laws?

    • Common carrier laws require infrastructure providers, such as phone companies, to allow anyone who wants to use their networks access to that “public” infrastructure.
  7. Why does AT&T believe Google Voice should be subject to common carrier laws?

    • AT&T argues that if Google argues for net neutrality, it should also be bound by common carrier rules.
  8. Why does Google believe Google Voice is not subject to common carrier laws?

    • Google argues that Google Voice is a software application that rides on infrastructure built by other companies, it is a free service, and it is not intended to be a replacement for traditional telephone service.
  9. What is the FCC’s stance on this issue?

    • The FCC has not yet commented on AT&T’s letter or Google’s blog response.
  10. What does the FCC’s open network provision require?

    • The FCC’s open network provision requires broadband carriers to treat all internet traffic equally without discrimination.
  11. What is the significance of this dispute between AT&T and Google?

    • This dispute is a part of a larger battle between AT&T and Google over the future of the internet.
  12. How can I stay informed about this issue?

    • Keep an eye on news articles and FCC filings on the issue.

Summary

The ongoing dispute between AT&T and Google over net neutrality highlights the tensions between traditional telecommunications companies and internet giants. AT&T accuses Google of violating net neutrality principles by blocking phone calls on its Google Voice service, while Google argues it is not subject to common carrier laws that apply to telephone companies. This dispute goes beyond a mere technical debate; it reflects the broader battle between carriers and content providers over control of the internet’s future.

Google has long been a supporter of net neutrality, believing that all internet traffic should be treated equally. AT&T, on the other hand, has expressed concerns about the impact of net neutrality on its business model. The FCC’s decision on this issue will have a significant impact on the future of net neutrality and the internet as a whole.

Ultimately, the best way to stay informed about this issue is to follow news articles and FCC filings. The FCC’s website provides a wealth of information on net neutrality, and you can also find up-to-date news on the subject through various technology news outlets.

Call to action: Visit the FCC website to learn more about net neutrality and stay informed about this ongoing dispute.