Google Cries About What Verizon Might Do With C Block

Google filed a... well, filed something with the FCC recently to complain about the idea that Verizon might not live up to the Open Access requirement in written into the C Block of the 700 MHz spectrum purchase. Google's concern is that Verizon hasn't been the most open of companies, and even though Verizon has been making drastic strides (at least publicly) toward a new "open" horizon, the Goog is afraid that Verizon may back-pedal on their promises once the big V officially owns the C Block. Essentially, they are asking the FCC to enforce a regulation that they have already promised to enforce.

While I can sympathize with Google's concerns, I have to admit this perturbs me. If Google is seriously so concerned about the openness of the C Block, why did they only bid up to the Reserve Price and then back away? Why didn't they go ahead and fight for full ownership of the spectrum so they could ensure openness? And why do they feel the need to babysit the FCC and Verizon in the process? To be honest, here's what bothered me the most:

"Verizon is not free to self-define the rule to exclude any and all Verizon devices," Google's lawyers wrote. "The commission must ensure that Verizon understands that this license obligation means what it says: any apps, any devices."

Really? So Verizon isn't allowed to define what the license means, but Google is? I kinda thought that defining and upholding the license agreement was the FCC's job, not some mega-conglomerate web-based tech company that has a vested interest in the network working a particular way? Maybe it's just me, but if I were the FCC, I would in no polite terms remind Google that it is not their place to cry wolf before any harm has been committed or even hinted at. Don't get me wrong, on principle I agree with Open Access, but I just think Google is acting silly here.

Google Seeks Open-Access Pledge From Verizon [NY Times]