Verizon Wireless to open its network to outsiders

Verizon Wireless Inc. said Tuesday it will let any software or device run on its wireless network. The move is a change of direction for Verizon, which has been protective of its network, and a mark of competitiveness with Google Inc. which launched a similar open-standards software platform.

Earlier this month Google unveiled its Open Handset Alliance that includes 33 handset makers, wireless carriers and other technology companies, including Sprint Nextel Corp. and Deutsche Telekom AG's T-Mobile USA .

Apple Inc. also said earlier it will let third parties to develop software for its iPhone. Verizon Wireless, which is owned by New York City-based Verizon Communications Inc. and Vodafone Group PLC, said it plans to publish technical standards for the development community next year. Any device meeting the minimum technical standards will be allowed on the network, Verizon said.