MUMBAI: Verizon Communications Inc. and Google Inc. have struck an accord on handling internet traffic. The compromise would restrict Verizon from selectively slowing internet content that travels over its wires, but wouldn’t apply such limits to internet use on mobile phones.

Verizon and Google have been adversaries over the issue, known as ‘net neutrality’. The former was among cable and phone companies that said that they need scope over the delivery of web content to protect performance of their networks.

Google led content providers and advocacy groups that say restrictions are needed so that communication companies don’t favour their own online offerings or those of its partners.

The two companies have become business allies through Verizon Wireless, the largest US wireless carrier that is co-owned by Verizon. Mobile phones that use software from Google helped Verizon’s profit this year.
 
New York-based Verizon’s earnings beat estimates last month after its wireless unit introduced phones running on Google’s Android software that include Droids from Motorola Inc. and HTC Corp. to compete against AT&T’s iPhone from Apple.

Executives of Google Inc., AT&T Inc. and Verizon Communications Inc. met Federal Communications Commission (FCC) officials last weekend.