Joint Sprint, Clearwire network could boost consumer power

And the Clearwire venture might even be beaten to the punch when it comes to open access.

Verizon Wireless has promised to open up its existing network starting late this year to devices that pass a short technical qualification process. Given the very tight control that Verizon Wireless has hitherto exercised over its network, that effort has been met with some skepticism. But if it lives up to its promises, it could be a strong competitor.

In any case, the wireless industry is likely to look quite different a year from now.