The FCC is investigating Apple's rejection of Google Voice iPhone app and other apps to its app store. The FCC has sent letters to Apple, AT&T, and Google to investigate the matter. They have been getting a lot of pressure from consumer and activist groups to look into the practices of carriers and exclusive deals.
Google Voice is a suite of phone resource products that acts as a switchboard, voicemail and router service.
The letter to AT&T asks:
Are there any terms in AT&T's customer agreements that limit
customer usage of certain third-party applications? If so, please
indicate how consumers are informed of such limitations and whether
such limitations are posted on the iTunes website as well. In general,
what is AT&T's role in certifying applications on devices that run
over AT&T's 3G network? What, if any, applications require
AT&T's approval to be added to a device? Are there any differences
between AT&T's treatment of the iPhone and other devices used on
its 3G network?
"Recent news reports raise questions about practices in the mobile
marketplace," FCC Chief Julius Grenachowski stated. "The Wireless
Bureau's inquiry letters to these companies about their practices
reflect the Commission's proactive approach to getting the facts and
data necessary to make the best policy decisions on behalf of the
American people."