FCC's version of the end game?
Phase 1) Today: Do NOT open cable--this will force the roll-out of other broadband solutions like xDSL (perhaps some wireless or DTH solution). This will also allow cable to build a competitive local loop using VoIP. Customers win--more competition between service providers and customers gain broadband services, sooner.
Phase 2) Later (1-2yrs): Once cable's VoIP deployment gathers momentum, a certain level of local competition will exist (in addition to competition from CLECs), thus, prompting FCC to allow RBOCs to enter LD business w/o no restrictions. Customers win--more competition between providers, better services, sooner.
Phase 3) Some point down the road, if the FCCs so feels that it is in the best interests of the consumer, AT&T and major MSOs can be broken up just like Ma Bell was years ago. Customers win again.
Phase 1 is already happening today--AOL's investment in DirecTV/Hughes and the alliances with the RBOCs to roll-out DSL, amongst other events. The CLECs have not been competitive enough--near-total deregulation of telecoms in the US is being held back...the FCC would probably like to see a "real" competitor for local telephony services like cable come in (residential only, however).
IMHO, there is no compelling reason to open cable up at this point in time--the authorities can always pull the trigger at any time after the cable upgrade/deployment has been completed--why waste such an effective "stick" now when the mere threat may suffice?
My apologies if this seems a bit unclear--it's 4:30am in my part of the world. |
