Many see Google Fiber
as an attempt to disrupt the stagnant world of internet service
providers, and it now sounds like Google wants to shake up the wireless
industry, too. Sources for The Information claim
that the search firm wants to offer mobile phone service in Fiber
areas. It's not yet clear how this would work, but Google reportedly
told Verizon in January that it would like to become an MVNO
(mobile virtual network operator) piggybacking on Big Red's network.
None of the companies involved are commenting on the rumor, and there
are no guarantees that Google's dreams will become reality. We certainly
wouldn't count on Verizon's cooperation given its vehement opposition
to the net neutrality principles that Larry Page and crew hold dear.
However, Google is the sort of company that's willing to supply internet
access by any means necessary -- if it's really bent on offering phone service, it'll find a way.