Verizon announced today that it plans to open its network to third party mobile devices.

At Verizon’s investor relations press conference: “Lowell McAdam, president and chief executive officer of Verizon Wireless … [discussed] the company’s announcement today to provide customers the option to use, on its nationwide wireless network, wireless devices, software and applications not offered by Verizon Wireless.”

McAdam was quoted as saying “This is a transformation point in the 20-year history of mass market wireless devices — one which we believe will set the table for the next level of innovation and growth.”

Could it be even bigger, dating back 40 years to 1968 when the Supreme Court ruled on the Carter Telephone Decision, allowing indpendent companies to connect over long distance lines?

Will this make a difference in the applications you develop or use? Will it make a difference in choosing a mobile carrier to go with your next cell phone plan? Has the November 5th introduction of Google’s Android Platform and the Open Handset Alliance helped to create a more open environment for wireless communications in the future?