By Reuters

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Google Inc said Apple Inc rejected its Google Voice application for the popular iPhone, contradicting Apple's statement to regulators last month.

The issue prompted the Federal Communications Commission to send letters to the companies and AT&T Inc, the iPhone's exclusive carrier, seeking explanations.

The issue over Google voice service could have far reaching implications for the U.S. telecommunications industry. Depending on how the FCC responds, it could either pave the way for new entrants or hinder their ability to use large carriers' phones to offer discount services.

According to redacted material made public on the FCC's website on Friday, Google said it was told of the rejection by Apple representatives after a series of meetings, telephone calls and emails.

In its response letter, Apple said it had not rejected the application and was still studying it because it appears to replace the iPhone's core mobile telephone functionality and user interface with its own system for telephone calls, text messaging and voicemail.

The letters from the companies were in response to an inquiry launched in July by the FCC, which under new leadership is also taking a fresh look into the state of competition in the wireless industry.

The FCC, chaired by Julius Genachowski, wanted to know why Apple rejected the Google Voice and what was discussed among Apple, Google and AT&T.

In the redacted portion, Google said it had no communications with AT&T.

Google said Apple also rejected the Google Latitude application over concerns it would replace preloaded maps applications in the iPhone and create user confusion.

(Reporting by John Poirier; editing by Steve Orlofsky and Andre Grenon)

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Posted at 12:15PM Sep 18, 2009 by Lou Wallace in Cell Phones  |  Comments[0]