[GLLUG] Fwd: Don't Let Ma Bell Monopolize the Internet

[Charles Ulrich]

On Thursday 12 October 2006 09:47, Andy Lee wrote:
> What are your thoughts on the argument that ATT won't have nearly the
> monopoly that existed in the 80's? POTS is a dying technology. 

I thought about this too, but instead considered VoIP. At the current rate of 
growth, it's probably not all that long before we have as many consumers on 
VoIP as we do broadband today. Since you aren't forced to go through an 
incumbent provider for the VoIP service itself, there'd be no way to create a 
monopoly.

Until you consider the net neutrality issue. There are certain Telco DSL and 
Cable providers in the U.S. that are already intentionally degrading the 
quality of regular VoIP traffic (especially Skype) while promoting their own 
limited, overpriced VoIP plans. If the newly-rebuilt AT&T decides to do the 
same (and mark my words, they will), we'll have another voice communication 
monopoly just like the old days.

> There is 
> really competition in the cellular market. Broadband doesn't provide
> great options, and wired links are likely to stay a choice between ATT
> and Comcast, but there is a choice. Furthermore, if the 4G wireless
> networks provide what has been advertised, communication wires to the
> home will be a thing of the past.

I could write a book on the many ways that cellular communication is broken in 
this country. Highlights would include 1) it's not a true open market as the 
cost of entry is ludicrous and the few providers that exist cooperate more 
than they compete, 2) calling plans are way overpriced and exploitative, and 
3) voice quality on all major networks is atrocious, even if you somehow 
manage to avoid signal strength issues.

In short, I don't see cellular voice communication as any kind of substitute 
for wired communications. The *only* advantage that cellular currently has is 
mobility. Every other aspect of it is a clear disadvantage.

Charles
-- 
Charles Ulrich
Ideal Solution, LLC -- http://www.idealso.com