What Will Net Neutrality Mean For Users?
The FCC voted 3-2 to approve so-called “net neutrality” which means broadband falls under the category of a public utility just like telephones and cable. Proponents say it will ensure fair and equal treatment to all traffic on the Internet and the government says it isn’t interested in regulating content, but only to prevent some carriers from charging higher rates or slowing service to certain companies or users.
But the FCC has used its authority to regulate broadcast television and radio content for years and many are concerned that the agency may overstep the original intention of net neutrality to exert more control over the Internet and its content.
Apple Must Pay $533 Mil In iTunes Lawsuit
A big blow to Apple in a patent lawsuit, the company has been ordered to pay roughly $533 million dollars to a company called Smartflash that accused Apple of using technology patented by Smartflash for their iTunes software.
Apple claimed that the company was just exploiting the U.S. patent system. In a statement, Apple said, “Smartflash makes no products, has no employees, creates no jobs, has no U.S. presence, and is exploiting our patent system to seek royalties for technology Apple invented.”
Apple believe that this is a case of “patent trolling” where someone files a patent on technology created and used by someone else who has neglected to file the proper patents. A “patent troll” files the proper paperwork and then sues the company using the technology hoping for a large settlement.
Comcast May Enter The Mobile Phone Business
Cable and Internet provider Comcast could be ready to get into the mobile phone carrier business. The company would use its national network of WiFi hotspots to connect users to the Internet.
Comcast’s CEO didn’t get specific about the plan, he just said that the company is assessing the possibilities. Comcast’s Xfinity Internet service came under fire when it was revealed that the company uses portions of subscribers’ routers to host local hotspots.
~ Cynthia