Verizon Takes Down Its Walls

In contrast, AT&T (T) bowed to Apple's (AAPL) requests to not only control the iPhone, but also all the software running on the device.

Earlier this year, Google successfully convinced the Federal Communications Commission to guarantee that the winners of the upcoming 700-megahertz radio wave auction can allow any devices on the new frequencies.

Clearly, Verizon has its eyes on how it will continue to expand its business in the new spectrum with fourth-generation technology. A key part of that success will involve Verizon's ability to control and charge for new data services, while keeping regulators and Washington happy.

Verizon has not determined any price plans for outside devices that may pass muster.

One near-term change that can be expected, say observers, is that people on Sprint's (S) network will be able to bring their CDMA phones to Verizon. That's not true for AT&T, where the iPhone's GSM technology is not compatible with Verizon's CDMA network.

Big phone makers like Nokia (NOK), Motorola (MOT) and Research in Motion (RIMM) already participate in Verizon's certification process. It will be smaller players, like HTC or even GPS device specialist Garmin (GRMN), that have a possible shot at gaining future Verizon approval.

Verizon shares recently were up 42 cents to $41.65. Garmin regained its symbolically important $100 level, rising $3.74 to $100.45 in midday trading Tuesday.

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