Verizon Wireless To Introduce ‘Any Apps, Any Device’ Option For Customers In 2008

Looks like VZW has changed it mind with regards to opening up devices.

11/27/2007

BASKING RIDGE, NJ — Verizon Wireless today announced that it will provide customers the option to use, on its nationwide wireless network, wireless devices, software and applications not offered by the company. Verizon Wireless plans to have this new choice available to customers throughout the country by the end of 2008.
In early 2008, the company will publish the technical standards the development community will need to design products to interface with the Verizon Wireless network. Any device that meets the minimum technical standard will be activated on the network. Devices will be tested and approved in a $20 million state-of-the-art testing lab which received an additional investment this year to gear up for the anticipated new demand. Any application the customer chooses will be allowed on these devices.

Read the Verizon Wireless Press Release

iDEN one foot in the Grave?

Sprint announced that it will launch CDMA handsets with Nextel Direct Connect early next year. This is not a hybrid CDMA / iDEN technology, but rather a compatible Push To Talk technology using the CDMA network which Sprint successfully tested late last month. Sprint said these handsets will come in a variety of styles, from ruggedized to sleek, and a variety of manufacturers. Sprint will continue branding their walkie talkie service Nextel Direct Connect as these new CDMA handsets will be able to work with iDEN handsets as well as each other. Sprint will also add new features to Direct Connect with these phones, including a single number for voice and PTT as well as PTT voicemail.