Apple has distanced itself from former ally Google by refusing
to sell applications-based
Google Voice internet telephony technology through its online
App Store.
The move signals growing rivalry between the two former allies,
currently under investigation for violating US anti-trust laws.
The Federal Trade Commission is investigating whether Google and
Apple are violating anti-trust laws by sharing two board members,
according to the
New York Times.
Google Voice would help business users of Apple's iPhone by
enabling them to assign a single phone number to their mobile, desk
and internet phones.
The move shows the disadvantages of Apple's exclusive approach
and the growing number of areas in which Apple and Google compete,
according to the
Financial Times.
Apple has previously turned away internet telephony apps because
they were too close to core functions offered by the iPhone.
But some analysts believe the ban on Google Voice may also be
motivated by Apple's desire to protect its relationship with
exclusive US iPhone service provider AT&T.
Google Voice offers users low-cost international calls over the
internet, which could potentially reduce AT&T's US profits.