Verizon opens up wireless network to outsiders

In a landmark announcement, Verizon says it will allow third-party developers to make mobile devices that are compatible with its wireless network. Currently, you have to buy phone through Verizon to use Verizon’s wireless service, for example. So why the sudden change of heart? Two reasons: 1) Google’s Android program, the first open and free mobile platform, which has signed on 30 technology and mobile partners and 2) the FCC’s big spectrum auction next month, which will require an open network. And you guessed it, Google is rumored to be the frontrunner.

Unfortunately, there’s a catch for iPhone users — Verizon runs on a CDMA network and the iPhone only runs on a GSM network, provided by AT&T.