With cellular towers sprouting all over, towns begin to rebel; city halls find red tape has become best way to thwart phone firms; 'monster across the street.' (Industry Trend or Event)
Article Abstract:
Local communities are attempting to block the construction of more cellular-phone antenna towers at the very time that cellular phone companies are facing increased competition from personal communications service (PCS) networks. In the period from 1981 to 1996, cellular carriers set up 22,000 transmission sites without facing much opposition. But the carriers will need to add 100,000 antenna installations to expand their businesses. The local opposition comes in part from concern about health risks, although there is no clear data connecting the electromagnetic transmissions with any health problems, and the Telecommunications Act of 1996 includes a clause that prevents communities from outlawing the antennas because of health risks. To avoid this provision, local communities force the carriers to go through lengthy bureaucratic processes. The carriers typically respond by making investments in the community.
Publication Name: The Wall Street Journal Western Edition
Subject: Business, general
ISSN: 0193-2241
Year: 1996
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Cellular's growth spurt is put on hold by recession, changing demographics
Article Abstract:
The cellular communications industry, while still rapidly expanding compared to other mature industries, is facing a slowdown in the face of the recession and changing industry demographics. Most analysts predict the industry will experience 1991 growth in the neighborhood of 20 percent to 25 percent, down from the 40 percent to 60 percent growth of recent years. Not only are customers signing on to cellular service at a slower rate, but existing customers are using the service less than in previous years. The average customer who once spent 250 minutes a month on the cellular phone now spends between 120 and 175 minutes a month. Analysts say the recession has changed people's attitudes towards the phones, no longer are they regarded as status symbols and toys, but rather as just another expense.
Publication Name: The Wall Street Journal Western Edition
Subject: Business, general
ISSN: 0193-2241
Year: 1991
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Motorola says it may mount challenge to AT&T in cordless telephone market
Article Abstract:
Motorola Inc might enter the market for cordless telephones. If its plans push through, Motorola will be the first manufacturer to make cordless phones in the US. Motorola's entry into the US cordless phone business will pit the company against AT&T, which holds a 48 percent share of the $700 million US cordless market. AT&T, for its part, threatens to encroach on Motorola's market for cellular phones, planning to sell phones manufactured by Oki Telecom of Japan. Motorola has developed two versions of cordless telephones, both of which features the flip-top design of its popular pocket-sized phone and greater call security through encryption.
Publication Name: The Wall Street Journal Western Edition
Subject: Business, general
ISSN: 0193-2241
Year: 1991
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