'Openness' has always seemed like a fragile foundation for a mobile platform. Mobile operators are the least 'open' companies out there, and they hold all the keys in this market.
If Android apps really are going to be unrestricted, then the first applications everyone will download are VOIP and SMS gateways. Are mobile operators really going to tolerate a platform that circumvents long-distance and SMS surcharges?
If they don't allow applications like this, Android doesn't really have much going for it relative to the iPhone.
Are mobile operators really going to tolerate a platform that circumvents long-distance and SMS surcharges?
You can use Skype on AT&T Tilt (or any Windows) mobile phones. It works with WiFi and 3G data network. People are downloading and using VOIP application on their mobile phones.
If Android apps really are going to be unrestricted, then the first applications everyone will download are VOIP and SMS gateways. Are mobile operators really going to tolerate a platform that circumvents long-distance and SMS surcharges?
If they don't allow applications like this, Android doesn't really have much going for it relative to the iPhone.