∞ Google contradicts Apple, tells FCC iPhone app was rejected

Google has contradicted Apple’s letter to the FCC, saying that Apple did, in fact, reject its Google Voice app entry into the App Store. iphone3gsThe FCC asked Google, AT&T and Apple in late August to respond to reports that Google’s app was rejected from the App Store. The FCC was investigating allegations that AT&T and Apple were keeping the app out of the store because it duplicated the paid functions of the iPhone voice services.

In its letter, Apple said it never rejected the app and that it was still under review.

“Contrary to published reports, Apple has not rejected the Google Voice application, and continues to study it,” Apple said in its letter to the FCC. “The application has not been approved because, as submitted for review, it appears to alter the iPhone’s distinctive user experience by replacing the iPhone’s core mobile telephone functionality and Apple user interface with its own user interface for telephone calls, text messaging and voicemail.”

Google’s original response was kept confidential, but the company lifted its confidentially request on Thursday, according to the Wall Street Journal.