Verizon Wireless dropped its plan to cap network speeds for certain 4G users at the busiest times after it ran into strong resistance from the US regulator.

The operator issued a statement which said: “We’ve greatly valued the ongoing dialogue over the past several months concerning network optimisation and we’ve decided not to move forward with the planned implementation of network optimisation for 4G LTE customers on unlimited plans.”

FCC chairman Tom Wheeler previously expressed his concern about the selective nature of Verizon’s network management plan, which singled out particular subscribers whose data speeds would have been throttled.

For its part, the operator pointed out the plan would have only applied during limited periods of network congestion.

However, the argument did not wash with Wheeler. Yesterday, he welcomed the move by Verizon.

“I salute Verizon Wireless’ decision. This is responsible action and I commend Verizon’s leadership on this issue.”

Although only a sideshow, the spat has an implication in the wider US debate —  stirring interest among consumers and the industry — over net neutrality.

Wheeler recently indicated he is more open to calls for mobile operators to be treated in the same way as fixed operators on net neutrality. Currently, they are largely exempt from such rules.