AT&T Criticizes Google for Blocking Adult, Rural Calls

CUPERTINO, Calif. — AT&T has accused Google of blocking porn-related as well as other kinds of calls to its VOIP app Google Voice in the latest stage of the feud between the two companies.

The feud originated with the emergence of the Google Voice app, which lets cell phone users make calls using VOIP, or voice over Internet protocol.

Apple has blocked Google Voice from the company's App Store. The FCC took notice and applied pressure to AT&T and change its policy. In response, AT&T opened its 3G network to other VOIP apps, but not Google Voice.

Google has blocked certain calls from Voice, including expensive teleconference calls that could clog up its network. Today AT&T released statements criticizing Google for blocking phone sex lines, as well as calls made from certain Catholic convents.

Google responded to AT&T's criticism by explaining that it blocks calls from certain rural areas because some Google Voice users — including phone sex operators — route their calls through those areas to make the calls more expensive and increase revenue. Apparently some convents got caught in that net.

Apple and AT&T's position against Google Voice has drawn widespread criticism from tech experts.

"We all know that the real reason Apple won’t let Google Voice through is that they are scared out of their mind that … Google Voice will eat their iPhone lunch over the long term," said Michael Arrington of TechCrunch.com.

Related:  

Copyright © 2025 Adnet Media. All Rights Reserved. XBIZ is a trademark of Adnet Media.
Reproduction in whole or in part in any form or medium without express written permission is prohibited.

More News

AI Erotic Storytelling Platform 'AIEroticSmut' Launches

AIEroticSmut.com, a DIY erotic storytelling platform, has officially launched.

TeamSkeet, MYLF to Launch New Website FamilyStrokes.com

Sister studios TeamSkeet and MYLF are launching a new website, FamilyStrokes.com.

AV Bulletin: Age Verification Hits the Mainstream, Ofcom Sets a Date

Industry stakeholders and free speech advocates have anxiously been awaiting the Supreme Court’s decision in Free Speech Coalition v. Paxton, which could significantly impact state age verification laws around the country. In the meantime, state legislatures continue to weigh and pass AV bills, AV tech providers continue to tout their services, and legal challenges continue to play out in the courts — with some cases on hold pending the SCOTUS ruling in Paxton.

Segpay Names Kristi Greer VP of Sales

Segpay has promoted long-time employee Kristi Greer to the position of vice president of sales.

BranditScan Names Subgirl Newest Brand Ambassador

BranditScan has named content creator Subgirl its newest brand ambassador.

Arcom Reports Age Verification Enforcement Actions Against 5 Adult Sites

French media regulator Arcom released a statement Tuesday detailing recent actions to enforce age verification rules as set forth under France’s Security and Regulation of the Digital Space (SREN) law.

Pineapple Support, Clips4Sale to Host Performers' Partners Support Group

Pineapple Support and Clips4Sale are hosting a free online support group for partners and family members of adult industry professionals.

FSC Mourns the Loss of Board Director Emeritus Mark Kernes

Free Speech Coalition has released a statement regarding the passing of Board Director Emeritus Mark Kernes.

Alexa Creed Launches New Paysite

Creator Alexa Creed has launched a new membership site through MyMember.site.

Choice Talent Management Launches Fan Platform 'ChoiceFilmz'

Choice Talent Management CEO Chris Crisco has launched a new fan platform called ChoiceFilmz.

Show More