Verizon has tapped Web application vendor Laszlo Systems to build a new branded Webmail application for its FiOS fiber-to-the-home customers—and eventually all of its broadband Internet users.

Verizon’s Webmail application was built using Laszlo Webtop, a service creation/delivery platform that allows developers to build customizable applications using AJAX technologies. Laszlo released its software to open source under the name OpenLaszlo but continues to build commercial products using the platform.

Applications built using the Laszlo tools are designed to work in a browser but feel like a desktop app. For instance, the Laszlo-built Verizon Webmail application includes a preview window for message view, drag-and-drop capability, built-in searching and automatic email alerting—all delivered within a standard Web browser.

For Verizon, building its own Webmail application allows it to offer its own branded software in addition to partner-branded email. FiOS users also have the option of using third-party email and portal services from their choice of Microsoft, AOL or Yahoo.

“Owning” the customer experience and user interface on the desktop outright—versus working with a content partner—is an important consideration for service providers as they work to provide more telecom/Web services directly to customers.

In addition to the new Webmail application, Verizon said it has upped the email storage for its users to 4 gigabytes and enabled email access (for a $5 monthly fee) from some Verizon Wireless phones, including LG enV, the MOTORAZR V3m, the LG VX8300, Chocolate by LG, the Samsung SCH-u740, MOTOKRZR K1m and MOTORAZR2 V9m.