Verizon Challenges Applying Net Neutrality To Wireless

The Net-neutrality plan adopted by the Federal Communications Commission has been challenged by Verizon Communications. Verizon's lawsuit was filed in the same court that struck down a FCC ruling against Comcast. Verizon had joined with Google to propose a neutrality plan similar to the FCC's -- but it exempted wireless providers.

Verizon Communications announced Thursday that it has filed a legal challenge to the Net-neutrality plan adopted by the Federal Communications Commission. The company said it is "deeply concerned by the FCC's assertion of broad authority for sweeping new regulation of broadband networks and the Internet itself."

Approved last month, the FCC plan requires network providers to treat all content the same, without favoring some kinds of content which could, for example, compete with the provider's own offerings. Despite the legal move, the company said it is still "committed to preserving an open Internet," adding that it has worked extensively with "all players in the Internet and communications space to shape policies that ensure an open Internet."

By Barry Levine

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CEO Schmidt Will Step Aside for Google Cofounder Page

In a surprise announcement, Google CEO Eric Schmidt will become chairman while cofounder Larry Page moves up to CEO. Schmidt, who will become chairman, said he and Google's founders are clarifying their management roles. Google also reported a jump in revenues, and analysts are questioning whether Page is ready to lead.

In a move that surprised industry analysts, Eric Schmidt will step down as Google's CEO. Google cofounder Larry Page will take over as chief of the company while Schmidt settles into the chairman role.

While Page takes on the day-to-day management, Schmidt will focus externally on deals, partnerships, customers and broader business relationships, government outreach, and technology thought leadership. Internally, Schmidt will continue to act as an adviser to Page and cofounder Sergey Brin, who will focus on strategic projects, in particular new products. The changes will take effect on April 4.

By Jennifer LeClaire

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