What would happen if the wireless network was more similar to the wired internet? We may have a chance to find out. I am intrigued by the comments made in the story below by Eric Schmidt as he described Google’s experience working with Verizon. http://www.sfgate.com/cgibin/article.cgi?f=/g/a/2009/10/06/urnidgns852573C400693880002576470060B6E6.DTL Specifically “… Schmidt also praised Verizon for its evolving attitude toward opening up its network to more third-party applications, devices and open source operating systems. Schmidt said that Google has been pleasantly surprised to see Verizon take a more positive stance toward network openness, as the company had traditionally expressed opposition to opening up its network to outside devices and applications.

If this turns out to be the case, we could see another burst of innovation similar to what we have seen with the iPhone. But with a major difference – the device platform is much more open, and the indication in this article is that Verizon will take a less rigid position about what devices can go on the network. If that turns out to be true – hang on.

With the wired internet anyone can create an internet-ready device. Webcams, reservoir gauges, coffee pots – whatever you have time for, you can do. Not so today with the wireless network. It is still very much the “walled garden” to use a phrase from years past. But think of what might happen if that changed. Video from everywhere streamed to the Web, sensors of every type broadcasting live, special purpose devices – low cost, single purpose devices for the app that matters most to you. The two critical ingredients are an open platform (android is gaining here), and a wireless carrier with something to prove (Verizon after their lack of iPhone experience).

The iPhone is a terrific device, the app store is amazing. But if Google and Verizon mean it, we could see a whole new level of community-based innovation.