FCC e Skype: wifi come il cavo telefonico

The FCC today decided to classify wireless broadband as an information service (pdf), reports RCR News. The decision gives broadband wireless the same deregulatory status as cable modems, a status upheld by the Supreme Court in the Brand X decision.

La diversa qualificazione del servizio impone adempimenti impensabili alla progettazione: 

"Small ISPs, like Brand X, wanted to use the coaxial cables owned by private cable companies. Brand X lost when the United States Supreme Court declared that a cable Internet provider is an “information service,” and not a “telecommunications service.” A “telecommunications service” (like POTS) is deemed a vital common carrier and provides “equal access” to a variety of services." 

C'e' lo zampino di Skype ? 

Skype wanted the FCC to declare that wireless carriers could connect directly to the old AT&T monopoly network so long as no harm was caused to the telephone system. The mobile phone industry opposed the Skype petition.