AT&T says computer directory service won't be in use until at least summer

Article Abstract:

AT&T estimates it will be at least mid-1990 before Find America, the phone company's planned national electronic directory service, actually becomes available. The new service was supposed to begin in Feb 1990. In Dec 1989, AT&T got permission from the FCC to offer corporate customers access to local phone listings kept by the seven regional Bell telephone companies. AT&T had hoped to start the service in a five-state area served by Southwestern Bell Telephone Co, moving into areas served by the other Baby Bells by year's end. The problem that is slowing the service's introduction has to do with how local phone companies should provide listings to AT&T or whether, in fact, they should be allowed to do so at all. The FCC has not yet decided whether a Southwestern Bell Corp subsidiary will be allowed to provide listings for use by AT&T. A decision is not expected until Jun 1990.

Information retrieval services, United States, Science and technology policy, Directory, Regional Bell Operating Companies, Directories, Government Regulation, Telecommunications Services Industry, Bell Regional Holding Companies

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AT&T planning computer access to phone numbers: FCC seen clearing service to corporate customers for listings nationwide

Article Abstract:

On Jan 18, 1990, the FCC is expected to clear the way for AT and T to begin operation of a new service called AT and T Find America. The service will be the first of its kind, allowing corporate customers nationwide access to local phone listings via a computer connection. It will operate much like directory assistance does, but rather than contacting an operator, users will rely on a computer hook up. The service will be the first of its kind in the country because under the law, local telephone companies are barred from doing business outside their service area. Initially the service will include only the territory of Southwestern Bell Inc, but AT and T hopes to reach agreements with the other regional companies soon. AT and T will be charging corporate customers $2,200 per month, plus 35 cents for each computer screen of information and $22 an hour for transmission.

Telecommunications, AT and T Find America (information retrieval system)

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AT&T is planning Valentine's Day gift to atone for snafu; firm asks FCC to approve special discount on calls that are placed Feb. 14

Article Abstract:

In an effort to appease its many customers who were inconvenienced by the nine-hour shutdown of its long-distance network on Jan 15, 1990, AT and T is asking the FCC to allow it to charge holiday discount rates on Feb 14. Valentine's Day long-distance traffic is 20 percent higher than the 80 million calls AT and T handles on a normal weekday. If the plan is approved, it will discount normal weekday rates for all out-of-state and international direct-dial long-distance calls by an average of 33 percent. About the unprecedented action, AT and T Chmn Robert E. Allen says, 'we are making this gesture to underscore how much we value our relationship with our customers.'

Services, Customer service, Pricing Policy, Discount

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