Verizon Wireless to open up its network next year

By the end of 2008, you’ll be able to BYO device to Verizon’s high speed wireless network, according to a press release issued today.

Verizon "will provide customers the option to use, on its nationwide wireless network, wireless devices, software and applications not offered by the company." This could be seen as a reaction to upcoming Android phones but probably won’t be accessible to the average hobbyist, as devices will need to be "tested and approved in a $20 million state-of-the-art testing lab" before being activated on the network.

Also, let’s not forget that Verizon’s "unlimited" EVDO no longer exists so those of you planning a killer mobile torrent downloader might have some trouble getting it to pass the sniff test. This initiative shows some forward thinking on Verizon’s part, though, so kudos for opening up the network to some outside innovation.

[UPDATE] Apparently it might very well be accessible to the average hobbyist, according to Gizmodo, who says that Verizon company officials have made it known that you can bring any CDMA-based phone to Verizon, provided it passes the "very reasonable" certification tests involving "basic network interactivity and a simple security screen." That’s good news after all.

Verizon Wireless To Introduce ‘Any Apps, Any Device’ Option For Customers In 2008 [Verizon Press Release]