What will Google do to cell phones?

T-Mobile is in big trouble because its network hasn't been upgraded. Verizon is in good shape for the time being but that could change with open access - which Google is a huge proponent of. Sprint/Nextel is loosing subs and I think they'll actually see the biggest impact. Google will probably bid on the 700 Mhz spectrum and if they win, then things will change dramatically. I don't see them building their own network, but they will reach agreements to sell parts of the spectrum to other providers with the stipulation that the networks open up for 3rd party content and allow the Google platform to run on their nets. End result would be a huge benefit for the consumers.

Great point! I have tmobile for the next 17 years of my life and I would love to see them take a hit!

What about a cell phone Google distributes for free . . . . allowing users to make up to X calls a month for free. In return, those users agree to use the 411 service and view / listen to other ads as well.

is this even likely to happen?

I think it will help the 3rd and 4th rank cell phone carriers in the US, like t-mobile and others. They are creating an open source platform called Android that will be the OS for cell phones, at least the ones that support, that people can create apps for that will work on all brands of phones that are powered by Android. Which should reduce development costs of new cellphones.

Not quite the gPhone, but a great idea for Google.

Sounds like I shouldn't extend my T-Mobile contract, would you agree?

Speculation is that T-Mobile is ripe for acquisition. I could see Google or Apple winning the 700Mhz frequency spectrum auction and then buying out T-Mobile for the network operations and rebrand it. Personally, if you're happy with what you have don't change. Otherwise, if you're looking for better connectivity and access to data then switch. If you want to travel overseas with your phone - go with Cingular which is a GSM standard and by far the largest system on the planet.

Which T-Mobile, the global T-Mobile brand that is huge in Europe in Germany or the US branch of it? It would be interesting to see what Google or Apple would do with the 700Mhz spectrum.

Just the US branch. T-Mobile elsewhere has much better networks. The US is an earnings leader for DT, but they are not happy about spending money to upgrade the networks.

Google filed for the 700MHz auction today, great news because they will shake up the mobile world: http://www.crn.com/networking/204400192