The Week in Review

Welcome to our Friday feature, Week in Review. Every Friday, RCR Wireless News runs through the major events of the week, outlining what happened and speculating on what to look for in the coming weeks, months and years. Check below for news about carriers, handset makers, content companies, infrastructure vendors and more.
Carriers
–Verizon Wireless said it will open its network to any certified device or application, a move that follows months of heated debate on the topic of open access in the wireless industry. Industry watchers are largely undecided on exactly how Verizon Wireless’ shift will play out in the long term.
Handsets
–Motorola’s Ed Zander is out, to be replaced by Moto COO Greg Brown. The move was somewhat expected, based on Motorola’s recent poor performance, but now investors will be looking to see whether Brown can right the Moto ship.
Content
–Google updated its mobile maps application with location information, allowing users to automatically input their location based on cell site information. The application signals the possibility of a broad selection of location-based services, including those not associated with a particular wireless carrier.
Infrastructure
–Verizon Wireless said it will use LTE technology for its 4G network. The move stands as a snub to Qualcomm, which offers the rival UMB technology. Industry watchers, especially equipment suppliers, will be keen to see whether Verizon Wireless’ decision will encourage other CDMA carriers to make the same jump.
Other
–Google said it will bid in the upcoming 700 MHz spectrum auction. However, it remains to be seen whether Google will actually win any spectrum.
COMING IN MONDAY’S ISSUE OF RCR WIRELESS NEWS
–What does Zander stepping down as Moto’s CEO mean for the company? Phil Carson covers.
–Google said it will bid in the upcoming 700 MHz spectrum auction, while Verizon Wireless chooses to implement an open-access network. Is this a sea change for the industry? Jeffrey Silva and Kelly Hill report.
–Long-term Evolution is gaining ground as the preferred 4G technology. Where do WiMAX and UMB stand? Matt Kapko reports.