AT&T sees McCaw deal as way to spur growth, offer new consumer services

Article Abstract:

AT&T's planned acquisition of McCaw Cellular Communications Co will result in enhanced growth for AT&T as well as expanded services its customers. Industry observers predict that McCaw services will be packaged with AT&T offerings in the future, and that the firm will market these services as part of its 'i Plan.' AT&T's communications chief Alex Mandl, who was the main negotiator with McCaw, is mum on future offerings but concedes the cellular services will be an important part of the firm's future business. McCaw, which is converting its cellular network from analog to digital, is already offering price breaks for its digital customers in some areas of the US. Additionally, the firm is preparing new equipment that will allow laptop computers to handle cellular transmissions for its Cellular Digital Packet Data service. The service should be available in over 100 US markets by late 1994. AT&T stands to benefit substantially with the acquisition of these McCaw services.

Electronic computers, Radiotelephone communications, Television broadcasting stations, Mergers, acquisitions and divestments, AT&T Wireless Services Inc., Companies, Strategic Planning, Acquisition, MCWA

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Glitch imperils AT&T advantage in long-distance wars

Article Abstract:

The failure of AT&T's network on Mon, Jan 15, 1990, might be a long-term liability in long-distance competition. AT&T has promoted the reliability of its network over those run by competitors MCI Communications Corp and US Sprint Communications Co. Now, even AT&T Chmn Robert E. Allen himself says: 'We didn't live up to our standards of quality. We didn't live up to our customers' standards of quality. It's as simple as that.' Allen also admits that AT&T operators initially refused requests for access numbers that enable customers to dial over the MCI or the Sprint networks. AT&T will ask the FCC for permission to offer a day of free calling, hoping to soothe customers and minimize public relations damage.

Telephone companies, Long distance telephone services, Marketing, Beliefs, opinions and attitudes, Accidents, Customer service, Public relations, Long-distance telephone service, Market share, Reliability (Trustworthiness), Telephone systems, Reliability, Telecommunications, Telephone System, Competition, Telephone Company, Failure, Allen, Robert E.

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