willybfriendly - 8:49 pm on Dec 14, 2009 (gmt 0)

This does appear to be a forward looking move on G's part. One report I read suggested that these will be unlocked phones sold on the open market. Not sure that the US consumer will be willing to change from "free" (or highly subsidized) phones tied to a carrier, although I sure would like to see that happen. It is downright difficult to find unlocked phones in the US, unless one wants repackaged foreign phones that may or may not have an English language interface.

Data rates are going to have to drop and coverage increase before the full potential of mobile is realized by the masses.

I have misgivings about G having yet another source of data about me/us. It is bad enough they know/store most everything about my web habits and behavior without letting them in on all my real world activities and location as well!