"Google over the last decade has established dominance of the personal computer-driven internet.  With the internet ecosystem expanding into the wireless and cell-phone markets in leaps and bounds, it was only natural that Google focus on the mobile side in order to gain control of new territories in its internet empire.

The first step was the official debut of its Android OS which officially launched with the release of T-Mobile's G1 smart phone last week.  While some phone companies loathed giving up proprietary control of their platform and potential ad-revenue, the allure of Google's free software and potential lucrative deals was too great, and many mobile carriers are giving in.

Now Google has outlined the next stage of its plan for the wireless future in a patent filed with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, which outlines a plan for an "open" wireless world.  Under Google's vision, phones, laptops, and other wireless devices would not be stuck with one service or network.  Rather, they would be able to access any available network, selecting the one at the best price.  This, Google says, would foster creativity and would give the consumer more for their money.

Under its vision, users could also use low-cost or free networks.  Web surfing on the phone would be easy with access to Wi-Fi or WiMax networks, perhaps using the currently unavailable "white space" spectrum.

Google's plan comes much to the chagrin of mobile carriers in the U.S.  Under the current market, most telecoms operate tightly closed networks.  Customers leaving the network are dealt high fines, and returning customers are typically offered little incentive to stay.  When roaming outside a particular network's coverage, mobile carriers typically provide service through agreements with other networks, but using these competitors' networks when roaming costs an arm and a leg, so to speak.

This runs contrary to the world of personal computers, which can access any available network that they have permissions to, choosing from a broad selection of Wi-Fi, cable, or DSL connections in various locations.

Some carriers have begun to adopt parts of Google's plan.  Apple's iPhone, despite being locked to AT&T's network, allows consumers freedom when it comes to internet browsing, by allowing access to local Wi-Fi networks.  And Verizon recently announced that it would not penalize customers for breaking contract if they paid the full price of their cell phone.  Additionally, all four major mobile carriers in the U.S. have agreed to pro-rate any existing fines, making the cost of leaving the plan late less than breaking contract earlier.

However, the carriers are also far less open than they like to advertise.  Verizon Wireless' much bragged about Open Network Initiative is not open at all, but merely speeds certification into the wireless brand network. T-Mobile CEO Robert Dotson recently stated, "Even though on the outside (an open device network) looks enticing, there still needs to be a minimum level of control to safeguard security and privacy."

For now, Google is chained by the telecoms demands.  Its new first-gen Android smart phone will be locked to T-Mobile's network inside the U.S.  However, Google isn't giving up its dreams of wireless freedom.  It's investing in municipal Wi-Fi and is pushing for free access to "white space" spectrum, the part of the spectrum between TV channels.

Google may have a long hard road ahead, but the company seems determined to continue its mission of wireless freedom, no matter who opposes it."