Google files patent for "find the best price"

[greggh]

http://news.cnet.com/8301-1035_3-10052709-94.html

Earlier this week, the search giant filed a patent application with the U.S. Patent Office describing its vision of an open wireless network where smartphones aren't tied to any single cell phone network. In Google's open wireless world, phones and other wireless devices would search for the strongest, fastest connection at the most competitive price. Essentially, wireless operators' networks would be reduced to "dumb pipes."

The idea is that depending on where a wireless user is at any given time, he could be on any number of networks. For example, if coverage is better from Verizon Wireless at home, a subscriber might connect to that network to make phone calls. But he might use AT&T while at work, where the signal is stronger. Price would also be a factor, and operators would constantly be vying in a sort of auction to provide the most competitive pricing for the call.

Software patents are evil enough. Trying to patent business models isn't just evil, it's scumbagish to boot. So, how's that "don't be evil" philosophy working out for you Google? Maybe it's time to add "don't be a scumbag" as another meaningless motto.

[eddie]

Veronica Belmont loves the android phone.

http://www.revision3.com/tekzilla

[jturning]

Software patents are evil enough. Trying to patent business models isn't just evil, it's scumbagish to boot. So, how's that "don't be evil" philosophy working out for you Google? Maybe it's time to add "don't be a scumbag" as another meaningless motto.

In fairness, it's a patent world. Until there is reform, you play by the rules of the game.

No way the telcos let this ever happen. For companies like AT&T and Verizon, the wireless business brings in the most income. More than any other segment, consumer local, business local, data, enterprise. Look how much people pay for cellular service, data plans, ring tones, text messages, picture messages, multiple phones per household. They are purposely keeping prices inflated and raking in the money. Lots of money flows through Washington to keep the racket alive. Did not the FISA legislation just pass with telco immunity. That's the power of special interest money in Washington at work.

Bugz