Google and Verizon dismiss talk surrounding 'end of net neutrality' deal

by Steven Mostyn - Aug 5 2010, 17:34

Online titan Google Inc. has strongly denied it is in talks with telecommunications specialist Verizon to allow the paid prioritisation of how content is delivered to end users – an element of control that would essentially undermine net neutrality.

Indications of a possible carriage deal between the two technology heavyweights surfaced after an article in the New York Times (NYT) said a deal was in the works that would “allow Verizon to speed some online content to Internet users more quickly if the content’s creators are willing to pay for the privilege.”

Speaking with UK broadsheet The Guardian, a Google representative was quick to dismiss the NYT report, labelling it as “simply wrong.”

“We have not had any conversations with Verizon about paying for carriage of Google traffic,” said the spokeswoman. “We remain as committed as we always have been to an open Internet.”

Verizon has similarly shrugged off the claims, stating that the NYT report “fundamentally misunderstands our purpose,” and that any suggestion of a business arrangement with Google is “entirely incorrect.”

Verizon’s statement also notes that the company’s goal “is an Internet policy framework that ensures openness and accountability, and incorporates specific FCC authority, while maintaining investment and innovation.”

Various online media reports grabbed onto the NYT article in light of recent comments made by Google chairman and CEO Eric Schmidt, in which he revealed that Google and Verizon have been engaged in lengthy talks with regard to agreeing on the definition of net neutrality.

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