NEW YORK: Google is planning to start the wireless business, according to reports that say the Internet giant plans to partner with Sprint and T-Mobile to sell mobile phone plans directly to customers.
“It’s not surprising. Google has limitless ambitions,” said analyst Scott Cleland, president of Precursor, a Virginia-based consulting firm and author of a book that raised concerns about the company’s growing influence. “They’re going to play Sprint and T-Mobile against each other to get a really low price, so Google can offer a really low price.”
Telecommunications experts disagree about how much Google’s entrance into the wireless business will disrupt the industry, and big players such as AT&T and Verizon.
“MVNOs are cool. They’re a good way for Google to get its brand out there and offer interesting pricing plans,” said John Bergmayer, a senior staff attorney at Public Knowledge, which advocates for a more open Internet. “But they don’t really change the competitive dynamics of the wireless industry. They’re just reselling Sprint or T-Mobile.”
