This used to be Google’s stance on Net Neutrality: Net Neutrality. I’ve read today that Google and Verizon are in talks, and are close to reaching a deal that would ensure Google’s websites would be given premium delivery, in essence preferential treatment. This is entirely counter to Google’s original stance AND at the same time a really big deal for the future of the internet in the United States. An open, even playing ground on the internet is essential to stop ISP’s from being the gatekeepers. I don’t need Comcast determining which traffic warrants priority delivery. So here is my promise:
Dear Google,
I urge you, don’t do this. It is bad business. It is evil. You have spent years trying to gain our trust as end users. Doing this alleged deal with Verizon is an affront to each and every one of us that defends your “Do no evil” mantra, it violates that trust. The internet is not meant to be the property of ISPs, it is the property of all of us that contribute to it and make it what it is today.
If you choose to fundamentally END NET NEUTRALITY, I will take the following actions:
Close all Google accounts which means I’ll be switching from the following services that may or may not serve your ads or provide you with valuable data: Gmail, Google Reader, Google Docs, Google Buzz, Google Search, YouTube, Google Video, Google Checkout/Shopping, Google Maps, Google Analytics and any others that I can’t think of right now.
I will never buy an Android phone.
I will become equally as opposed to your company as I am in support of it presently.
Sincerely,
Jeff Gibbard
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Dear Verizon,
I’ve been waiting for you to get the iPhone and I’ve been waiting for FIOS in my neighborhood. If you do this, I will never switch back, even IF you get the iPhone. I won’t get FIOS, or any other service you ever provide. You should be a champion of the open internet not the one that begins its steady downfall.
Sincerely,
Jeff Gibbard
UPDATE: I just came across this tweet, special thanks to @jtortiz86. The news is everywhere about the Verizon and Google agreement, who do you believe?
