Update to “Bring Down the Wall”

The New York Times has a good article today summarizing the state of industry policies and market practices regarding “locked” and “unlocked” mobile phones. As we have discussed here, we feel that the mobile wireless device industry approach to the walled garden practice favored by some device manufacturers and many mobile service providers will come under increasing scrutiny from many angles. Consumers and regulatory bodies worldwide are increasingly seeking more open access to wireless devices and applications. When NOKIA, the world’s largest maker of mobile phones, runs ads stating “Open to Anything” and “Unlock your potential,” it’s clear that a good portion of the global device manufacturing industry are willing and able to provide more open access to devices. The service providers however take a range of positions regarding “unlocked” devices as detailed in the Times article. Although service provider policies are evolving, a limited range of options are available in many service regions worldwide, and movement to more open devices and networks will continue to be slow. Nevertheless, for those consumers and businesses that would like to see more openness and competition in the wireless market place, progress is being made. Moreover, I expect that progress will accelerate and new opportunities be created as consumers and businesses vote with their feet and their wireless service contracts by moving to service providers with more open market practices.