VoIP Monitor - VoIP Providers|ATT

AT&T Brings More Choice to International Calling with New Mobile App

VoIP Monitor — Wed, 09 Nov 2011 22:28:01 GMT

AT&T smartphone customers now have another way to stay in touch with family and friends abroad. Introducing AT&T Call International – a free mobile VoIP app – providing international long distance calling at low, competitive rates.

Developed with and operated by 8x8, AT&T smartphone customers can use the app to make calls from the U.S. to international numbers; and when abroad, customers will benefit from the same low rates using the app over Wi-Fi. Countries and rates are available at www.att.com/callinternational.

The app provides simple, step-by-step instructions to establish an AT&T Call International account. Once established, customers can immediately make international calls through the app by either dialing directly or by accessing their existing contacts list. All calls are billed directly to the customer’s credit card.

The AT&T Call International app is available today as a free download in Android Market, BlackBerry AppWorld and more.

Consumer Reports Survey: Verizon FiOS and AT&T U-verse Best Choices Overall for Bundled Internet, TV, and Telephone Service

VoIP Monitor — Tue, 05 Apr 2011 18:43:34 GMT

Service providers FiOS and AT&T U-verse were top recommendations for bundled telecom services, based on a survey of 70,000 Consumer Reports readers.

The next best choice for many households for bundled services is a highly rated cable company including Cox, Cablevision, or Bright House Networks if they are in your area. If television service is a priority and Verizon FiOS and AT&T U-verse aren't available in your area, satellite providers DirecTV or Dish Network received above average survey scores. Their TV service is offered in hybrid bundles with DSL and phone service from some telephone providers

The issue also features tips on how to cut your telecom bills. The full story appears in the May issue of Consumer Reports, which goes on sale April 5th. The reports are also available to subscribers of www.ConsumerReports.org.

The survey, conducted by the Consumer Reports National Research Center, revealed that most major providers scored about the same in satisfaction as in recent years—ho hum compared with other services the magazine rates. Once again, the most satisfying telecom providers were a few small, regional cable companies, and Verizon FiOS and AT&T U-verse, the high-speed phone-company offerings.

The trouble is, according to Consumer Reports, most consumers have limited choice. All but a few markets are served by only one cable provider. Verizon FiOS and AT&T U-verse are available in only one-third of the U.S., and almost nowhere are they both available. Though almost all homes can receive satellite TV, satellite companies—unlike the other types of providers—don't offer their own internet and phone service.

But there are bright spots. Some newer alternatives received favorable marks in CR's survey, including the Ooma phone service, which offers free domestic calling, and dirt-cheap international rates.

Phone

Phone service from a major carrier makes sense for many households, especially if it's bundled with Internet and TV service at a nice discount. But changing or eliminating such home-phone service can be a practical way to slash telecom bills. If you drop home phone services from a major carrier and use one of the options below, you could save $20 a month or more.

Consider low-cost VoIP services. Many homes already have VoIP phone service from their cable company, Verizon FiOS, or AT&T U-verse. Costs usually run about $30 a month as part of a bundle or about $50 a la carte, including a long-distance plan.
Alternative VoIP services including Ooma, Vonage, Magic jack and Skype cost less, from nothing to about $25 a month for unlimited domestic calls, plus an upfront cost for equipment.

Television

TV still represents the biggest chunk of the home telecom bill for most households. More than 90 percent of the respondents to the survey still had a pay-TV provider of some sort. There has been a lot of talk about consumers cutting the cord to their TV service providers. But only 1.4 percent of CR readers have canceled their pay-TV service in the past two years, and another 7 percent of those who now have a paid service are thinking about dropping it.

Drop premium channels. Premium channels, notably HBO and Showtime, increasingly offer original programming, not just movies that have run elsewhere first. If you don't mind playing catch-up, you can watch past seasons of some premium shows as part of an unlimited subscription from a streaming service, or borrow DVDs or Blu-ray discs free from your library. Also ask your carrier about getting premium channels free as part of a limited-time promotion.
Cut the cord to your provider. If you mostly watch broadcast networks and rent movies, get your TV free over-the-air via an antenna and use an all-you-can watch online streaming service. You'll need an Internet-enabled TV, Blu-ray player, set-top box, or game console and a subscription to a service such as Netflix, which has streaming plans starting at $8 a month.

Internet

The small cable operator WOW was top rated across the board for Internet service, significantly ahead of highly rated providers such as Verizon FiOS and AT&T U-verse for overall satisfaction.

Don't pay for speed you don't need. If your Internet service provider pitches you a "blazing fast" speed—25 Mbps or faster— at an extra cost, don't bite. A consistent download speed of at least 5 Mbps, which is standard from the better cable companies and high-speed phone services, should be fine even for streaming high definition videos.
Use Wi-Fi hot spots. Rather than paying $30 to $60 a month for a cellular data service, use free Wi-Fi in public areas, at cafés, and at hot spots that may be provided by your cable company. Wi-Fi is often faster than 3G and 4G, but you can't venture beyond the hot-spot area.

AT&T Adds IP Voice Services to Virtual Private Network Services

VoIP Monitor — Tue, 24 Aug 2010 20:08:00 GMT

AT&T announces new and existing virtual private network customers may add VoIP service to the network solution delivered over AT&T's global network cloud. This converged solution will enable customers to consolidate their separate voice and data networks, reduce equipment and maintenance costs, and simplify migrating these complimentary capabilities to a common, secure infrastructure. By migrating to a common infrastructure, customers are able to take advantage of additional applications as AT&T makes them available, such as unified communications capabilities.

The AT&T VoIP portfolio is also certified for interoperability with leading industry providers of IP-PBX systems, such as SIP Trunking services qualified for Microsoft Office Communications Server 2007 R2, providing support for businesses planning to incorporate a comprehensive unified communications solution in the future.

AT&T VoIP portfolio is also certified for interoperability with leading industry providers of IP-PBX systems, including Microsoft, providing support for businesses planning to incorporate a comprehensive unified communications solution in the future.

The company's portfolio of VoIP services includes AT&T IP Flexible Reach, a SIP trunking service, which allows businesses to continue to use the capabilities of their existing IP-PBXs, optimizing their equipment investment. AT&T Voice DNA®, another product in the VoIP portfolio, is a fully hosted network-based service with advanced features, applications and management tools for customers.

VoIP calling plans include unlimited local and "on-net" long-distance calling, as well as "off-net" long distance international calling, and provide the local calling features customers have come to expect such as: caller ID, voice mail, conferencing, local number portability and E911. Customers are able to monitor and manage their network through AT&T BusinessDirect, an award-winning Web-based suite of secure, interactive tools which allows customers to perform a multitude of functions from network monitoring and performance optimization, to customer service and bill management.

Business customers want a single network and platform to deliver voice, data, video and applications to their end-users. VPNs are quickly becoming the strategic platform to deliver on the goal of a networked enterprise -- anytime, anywhere, reliable, and highly secure networking. With AT&T's VPN portfolio, businesses can use a single infrastructure (their VPN network) to connect branch offices, headquarters, remote users, and third parties such as suppliers and customers.

Remote workers and road warriors have the same functionality as their co-workers in the company's headquarters or branch-based co-workers through the VPN network. They have seamless access to business functions, applications and intelligence, including customer service to order processing, procurement, and now, voice services, over a single network, including the same voice mail and the corporate dialing plans,

AT&T customers can access their VPN using virtually any access technology, such as mobile, Wi-Fi, DSL, dial-up and Ethernet.

AT&T U-verse Voice Digital Home Phone Service Reaches 1 Million Lines

VoIP Monitor — Thu, 28 Jan 2010 19:17:49 GMT

AT&T announces it now serves 1 million AT&T U-verse Voice digital home phone lines. The milestone comes two years after AT&T introduced the advanced VoIP service, which is now available to millions of homes across 22 states.

AT&T U-verse Voice is a next-generation digital voice service delivered over the AT&T U-verse IP network. More than 67 percent of new U-verse TV customers bundle U-verse Voice service.

AT&T added 248,000 U-verse TV subscribers in the fourth quarter of 2009, totaling 2.1 million U-verse TV subscribers nationwide and adding 1 million U-verse TV customers in the last year alone.

Since the commercial launch of U-verse Voice in January 2008, AT&T has continued to enhance the service and expand availability to provide more choices for consumers. U-verse Voice is now available in all 120 markets that offer U-verse TV, giving consumers another option for their home phone services.

U-verse customers benefit from flexible triple- and quad-play bundles. Customers can choose from multiple combinations of U-verse TV, U-verse Voice, U-verse High Speed Internet and AT&T wireless plans that offer significant savings and integrated features. As of the end of 2009, more than 90 percent of U-verse TV customers bundle High Speed Internet, and more than 75 percent of U-verse TV customers have a triple- or quad-play.

U-verse Voice customers also enjoy unmatched calling features that provide deeper integration across their bundle. For example, customers have a single, combined voice mailbox for convenient access to their AT&T U-verse Voice and AT&T wireless messages. They can also view their call logs on their PC or their TV screen, and initiate a call from their PC or TV. Last fall, AT&T started a market-by-market rollout of Caller ID on TV, which lets U-verse TV and Voice customers view caller ID and voicemail notifications on their TV screen.

AT&T Extends VOIP to 3G Network for iPhone

VoIP Monitor — Tue, 06 Oct 2009 23:27:03 GMT

AT&T has taken the steps necessary so that Apple can enable VoIP applications on iPhone to run on AT&T’s wireless network. Previously, VoIP applications on iPhone were enabled for Wi-Fi connectivity. For some time, AT&T has offered a variety of other wireless devices that enable VoIP applications on 3G, 2G and Wi-Fi networks. AT&T this afternoon informed Apple and the FCC of its decision.

In late summer, AT&T said it was taking a fresh look at VoIP capabilities on iPhone for use on AT&T’s 3G network, consistent with its regular review of device features and capabilities to ensure attractive options for consumers.

AT&T allows customers to download or launch on their wireless devices a multitude of compatible applications directly from any lawful Internet website. Additionally, because AT&T uses GSM technology, the most pervasive and open wireless technology platform in the world, we support customers using any GSM phone that works on AT&T’s frequencies.

AT&T U-Verse Voice Launched in Atlanta Area

VoIP Monitor — Mon, 28 Sep 2009 21:27:37 GMT

AT&T U-verse is using the most advanced technology to revolutionize what Atlanta area consumers can do with their home phones. AT&T announces the availability of AT&T U-verse Voice in parts of Atlanta and the surrounding counties, bringing consumers a next-generation digital voice service delivered over the AT&T U-verse Internet Protocol network.

AT&T U-verse Voice is available to eligible U-verse TV customers in the Atlanta area, and brings together your home phone, wireless, broadband and TV services — all on one bill — with unique features that provide a new level of integration, convenience and control.

Since introducing AT&T U-verse in Atlanta in May 2008, AT&T has continually made the service available to more customers on an ongoing basis. AT&T U-verse TV, U-verse High Speed Internet and U-verse Voice services are available today in parts of metro Atlanta and surrounding areas including, Athens/Clarke, Barrow, Butts, Camden, Clayton, Cobb, Coweta, DeKalb, Douglas, Fayette, Floyd, Forsyth, Fulton, Glynn, Gordon, Gwinnett, Hall, Henry, Jackson, Jasper, Lamar, Madison, Newton, Oconee, Paulding, Pike, Rockdale, Spalding, Troup and Walton Counties.

AT&T Admits to Blocking Mobile VoIP Calling on its 3G Network

VoIP Monitor — Wed, 09 Sep 2009 17:06:16 GMT

AT&T has admitted to the Federal Communications Commission that it struck a deal to prevent mobile VoIP calling on its 3G network. In fact, no cellular carrier in the United States allows VoIP calling across their mobile network. VoIP technology saves consumers money by routing calls over the Internet instead of traditional networks. AT&T responded to the FCC inquiry, arguing that the deal was needed to assure that revenues from its current voice plans would not be reduced by enabling mobile VoIP calling.

According to xG Technology, these revenues are seen as crucial by carriers to support the tremendous cost of deploying and operating traditional cellular networks. “It makes perfect sense,” said Joseph Bobier, chief technology officer of xG Technology, “No U.S. carrier currently allows VoIP across mobile networks. Given the billions of dollars they spent acquiring spectrum, building and deploying their cellular networks, the economics simply wouldn’t work. VoIP saves consumers money, but the flip side of this benefit is that this means less revenue for operators. In fact, the only two major wireless carriers in Europe that allow mobile VoIP traffic added charges that essentially strip out the savings that VoIP delivers.”

“By contrast, xG Technology recognized that Internet based calling—VoIP—will be the technology of the future and we designed our mobile system from the ground up with that in mind.”

By focusing on reducing the cost of the cellular network itself, xG Technology is a company that believes mobile VoIP can provide significant savings to consumers and still be profitable for carriers. The company’s approach has been to develop a network that uses free spectrum instead of the carrier paying billions for licensed spectrum. This translates to lower costs that can be passed onto the consumer.

Seven-year-old xG Technology is a US based company, but development of xMax is an international effort that involves companies in Europe and Asia. A portfolio of 50 US and 124 international patents and pending patent applications has been developed with the goal of bringing lower-cost communications to consumers.

ATT All-In-One U-Verse Femtocell Box

VoIP Monitor — Wed, 11 Feb 2009 19:47:01 GMT

AT&T is reportedly working on a U-Verse IPTV box with Femtocell capabilities, claims an employee. This unit will cover TV, telephone, internet and improve your cellular reception. Being the owner of a iPhone with fairly weak AT&T reception in portions of my apartment, I'm excited to hear any news on Femtocell's to help improve my cell phone coverage.

The all-in-one box is supposed to come in 2010, while U-Verse continues to expand throughout the U.S. However, in addition to this news comes the 3G Microcell, AT&T's stand alone Femtocell pictured (right), is confirmed to be out in Q2 of 2009.

Report: Fiber-Optic Providers Are Leading Choices for Internet, Television, and Telephone Service

VoIP Monitor — Tue, 06 Jan 2009 22:03:27 GMT

Consumers looking to cut costs without sacrificing satisfaction for Internet, television, and telephone service should consider bundling with Verizon FiOS or AT&T U-verse. In Consumer Reports' latest survey of major telecom providers and bundled services, featured in the February issue, Verizon FiOS and AT&T U-verse, whose networks are fiber-optic based, were the most consistently satisfying providers for their Internet, television, and telephone services.

Because Verizon FiOS and AT&T U-verse are not available everywhere, many consumers must consider other options for Internet, phone and TV services. The article also includes Ratings of these three services, which are typically bundled, from various providers.

In areas where telco-delivered service is not available, a highly-rated cable company is the next-best choice for many households. Consumers may not have an option when choosing a cable provider because a majority of homes only have one cable company available in their area. According to Consumer Reports' survey, better cable companies include Cox, Cablevision and the smaller Bright House and Wow, which are fine alternatives to fiber-optic service providers for all three services in areas that they are available and also offer Internet and telephone services.

If television service is a priority and fiber-optic service isn't available, satellite service may be a fine option. Consumer Reports suggests opting for a bundle that includes DirecTV. It scored higher than all the major cable companies and Dish Network, the other major provider of satellite service, for TV picture, sound and channel selection. It is also offered in hybrid bundles along with DSL Internet and landline phone service from some telephone providers.

Bundling Prices Decline

Intense competition for cable and satellite customers between AT&T U-verse and Verizon FiOS high-speed fiber providers has driven down rates for Internet, phone and TV service and is likely the reason that companies allow these savings to continue past the promotional period. In the past year, bundles of the three services have dropped in price by up to 20 percent, to as low as $80 a month.

Bundling makes sense for many households, especially for those consumers who are served by one of the fiber carriers or one of the better cable companies. Consumer Reports' latest survey found that subscribers were very satisfied with Internet, phone and TV from the best telecom providers. However, bundling doesn't come without some problems. The survey revealed a high incidence of complaints about billing, and fees with some providers' triple-play packages. Despite its high marks overall, Verizon FiOS was below average for customer service to its triple-play customers. Cable companies that bundle services had fewer customer-service problems overall.

How to Choose

Check alternatives. Only a small percentage of homes have two cable companies to choose from; most only have one. Satellite is more widely available, provided a home has an unobstructed view of the horizon to the southwest. DSL is widely available in urban and suburban neighborhoods. While fiber-optic service, such as Verizon FiOS and U-verse from AT&T, is spreading fast, it is still only available in about 8.5 million homes in about one-third of the states.
Weight the case for bundling. With most providers, signing up for more services equals more savings. Bundles allow for integrated services, such as display of callers' phone numbers on the TV screen, which is offered with some phone/cable packages. Triple-play offers often come sweetened with more extras, such as free installation. Consumers may also be guaranteed low rates for a longer period of time with triple-play than when subscribing to services one at a time.
Don't rule out a la carte. Taking fewer than three services from any one provider allows flexibility. Spreading service among a few carriers also eliminates the possibility that a network or equipment failure will knock out all telecom services. Although bundles usually ensure maximum savings, Consumer Reports found at least one instance where the cost of the service taken individually was actually lower than when it was part of a package.
Consider phone safety. Cable VoIP and fiber phone service require a battery back-up to use during power outages. These battery backups may be provided or have to be purchased for an additional fee. Additionally, if an outage lasts longer than the battery backup, consumers may be left without a phone for the remainder of the outage. Emergency 911 service varies among technologies. Consumer Reports recommends supplementing VoIP service with basic landline service for use in 911 calls.
Fine-tune by other attributes. Consumer Reports Ratings reveal that providers differ in more than their customers' overall satisfaction. Consumers should determine which TV providers carry programming they desire. Keep in mind that fiber and satellite usually have a termination fee but cable does not.

How to Get the Best Price

Check rates, then check again. Consumers should scour the provider's Web site for the best deals, and ask a customer rep if the price quoted is the company's absolute best offer. Consider checking again. Consumer Reports found that rates could change, seemingly by the representative who took the call.
Negotiate. It can pay off, particularly in areas where there's competition between a cable provider and a traditional telephone company, and when a promotional rate is expiring. Ask for a reduced price or free extras, such as installation or a premium channel at no cost.
Ask for sample bills. Before finalizing a deal, ask for a summary of all charges for the first and subsequent months. Confirm that the figures include all taxes and fees, and one-time expenses such as a charge to keep an existing phone number. Try to get all the information in writing. Check the figures later against the actual bills.
Fine-tune extras. As a rule, consumers shouldn't pay more for higher-speed Internet service unless they are doing a lot of downloading or sharing of lengthy videos or other very large files. Most VoIP and fiber-based phone plans include caller ID, answering service, and unlimited local and long-distance calling in the U.S., Canada and Puerto Rico, and sometimes other countries. Check that these features don't disappear or that the bill doesn't increase once the promotional period ends.

The complete report and Ratings are available in the February 2009 issue of Consumer Reports.

AT&T U-verse Voice Launched in Northeastern Illinois

VoIP Monitor — Wed, 03 Sep 2008 16:57:41 GMT

AT&T U-verse Voice in launches in parts of Northeastern Illinois, bringing consumers a next-generation digital voice service delivered over the AT&T U-verse Internet Protocol network. U-verse Voice brings together your AT&T home phone, wireless, broadband and TV services all on one bill with unique features that provide a new level of integration, convenience and control.

AT&T U-verse Voice completes the company's IP triple play and is available to all new and existing U-verse TV customers in the Northeastern Illinois area. With U-verse Voice, customers receive new features that highlight the benefits of having advanced video, broadband, wireless and home phone services from a single provider.

AT&T U-verse Voice is a managed IP-based service that is delivered over AT&T's fiber-rich network, unlike many VoIP providers that offer best-effort digital phone services over the public Internet. This allows U-verse Voice customers to enjoy great sound quality and reliability, as well as unmatched calling features that combine with your AT&T U-verse TV, broadband and wireless services from AT&T.

AT&T U-verse Voice Rolled Out in Wisconsin Areas

VoIP Monitor — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 18:38:04 GMT

AT&T U-verse Voice expands in parts of Wisconsin, bringing consumers a next-generation digital voice service that is delivered over the AT&T U-verse Internet Protocol network. U-verse Voice brings together your AT&T home phone, wireless, broadband and TV services -- all on one bill -- with unique features that provide a new level of integration, convenience and control.

AT&T U-verse Voice completes the company's IP triple play and is available to all new and existing U-verse TV customers in Wisconsin communities. This includes parts of more than 100 communities that include the Milwaukee, Racine, Kenosha, Green Bay, Appleton, Oshkosh, Fond du Lac and Sheboygan areas. With U-verse Voice, customers receive new features that highlight the benefits of having advanced video, broadband, wireless and home phone services from a single provider.

AT&T U-verse Voice Launches in Wichita, Kansas

VoIP Monitor — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 18:38:39 GMT

Wichita-area residents now have AT&T U-verse services, including AT&T U-verse TV, AT&T U-verse High Speed Internet and AT&T U-verse Voice. AT&T U-verse brings together your TV, broadband, home phone and AT&T wireless services all on one bill with unique features that provide a new level of integration, convenience and control. AT&T U-verse TV, High Speed Internet and Voice services are all delivered over AT&T's advanced Internet Protocol network.

Customers can currently order AT&T U-verse services throughout areas of Wichita, and AT&T will make U-verse services available to more homes on an ongoing basis.

AT&T U-verse Voice Rolled Out in San Antonio

VoIP Monitor — Mon, 04 Aug 2008 17:54:29 GMT

AT&T U-verse Voice launches in parts of San Antonio. U-verse Voice brings together your AT&T home phone, wireless, broadband and TV services -- all on one bill -- with unique features that provide a new level of integration, convenience and control.

AT&T U-verse Voice completes the company's IP triple play and is available to all new and existing U-verse TV customers in the San Antonio area. With U-verse Voice, customers receive new features that highlight the benefits of having advanced video, broadband, wireless and home phone services from a single provider.

AT&T U-verse Voice Rolls Out in Indianapolis

VoIP Monitor — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 21:28:00 GMT

AT&T U-verse Voice rolls out in parts of the Indianapolis area, bringing consumers a next-generation digital voice service delivered over the AT&T U-verse IP network. U-verse Voice brings together your AT&T home phone, wireless, broadband and TV services -- all on one bill -- with unique features that provide a new level of integration, convenience and control.

AT&T U-verse Voice completes the company's IP triple play and is available to all new and existing U-verse TV customers in the Indianapolis, Bloomington, Muncie and Anderson areas. With U-verse Voice, customers receive new features that highlight the benefits of having advanced video, broadband, wireless and home phone services from a single provider.

AT&T U-verse Voice is a managed IP-based service that is delivered over AT&T's fiber-rich network, unlike many VoIP providers that offer best-effort digital phone services over the public Internet. This allows U-verse Voice customers to enjoy great sound quality and reliability, as well as unmatched calling features that combine with your AT&T U-verse TV, broadband and wireless services from AT&T.

AT&T U-verse Voice Launched in Miami Valley

VoIP Monitor — Mon, 14 Jul 2008 18:17:50 GMT

AT&T launched the company's integrated suite of AT&T U-verse services in Miami Valley, including AT&T U-verse TV, AT&T U-verse High Speed Internet and AT&T U-verse Voice. AT&T U-verse brings together your TV, broadband, home phone and AT&T wireless services — all on one bill — with unique features that provide a new level of integration, convenience and control. AT&T U-verse TV, High Speed Internet and Voice services are all delivered over AT&T's advanced Internet Protocol network.

Customers can currently order AT&T U-verse services in parts of more than 20 local communities, including Beavercreek, Butler Township, Centerville, Clayton, Dayton, Fairborn, Huber Heights, Kettering, Mad River Township, Miami Township, Miamisburg, Moraine, Northridge, Oakwood, Riverside, Springfield, Springfield Township, Vandalia, Washington Township, West Carrollton and Woodbourne-Hyde Park. AT&T will make U-verse services available to more homes throughout the area on an ongoing basis.

AT&T U-verse Voice Arrives in Tulsa, Oklahoma

VoIP Monitor — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 18:49:27 GMT

Tulsa-area residents now have a new choice for their television and communications services. AT&T launched the company's integrated suite of AT&T U-verse services in Tulsa, Oklahoma. The suite includes AT&T U-verse TV, AT&T U-verse High Speed Internet and AT&T U-verse Voice.

AT&T U-verse brings together your TV, broadband, home phone and AT&T wireless services — all on one bill — with unique features that provide a new level of integration, convenience and control. AT&T U-verse TV, High Speed Internet and Voice services are all delivered over AT&T's advanced Internet Protocol network.

Customers can currently order AT&T U-verse services in parts of Tulsa, Jenks and Owasso. AT&T will make U-verse services available to more homes throughout the area on an ongoing basis.

AT&T U-verse Voice Launched in Cleveland, Akron and Columbus

VoIP Monitor — Mon, 16 Jun 2008 21:04:58 GMT

AT&T announced the availability of AT&T U-verse Voice in parts of Cleveland, Akron, Columbus and other northeastern Ohio communities, bringing consumers a next-generation digital voice service delivered over the AT&T U-verse IP network. U-verse Voice brings together your AT&T wireline and wireless voice, broadband and TV services all on one bill with unique features that provide a new level of integration, convenience and control.

AT&T U-verse Voice completes the company's IP triple play and is available to all new and existing U-verse TV customers in the Cleveland area. With U-verse Voice, customers receive new features that highlight the benefits of having advanced video, broadband, wireless and wireline voice services from a single provider.

AT&T U-verse Voice is a managed IP-based service that is delivered over AT&T's fiber-rich network, unlike many VoIP providers that offer best-effort digital phone services over the public Internet. This allows U-verse Voice customers to enjoy great sound quality and reliability, as well as unmatched calling features that combine with your AT&T U-verse TV, broadband and wireless services from AT&T.

AT&T U-verse Voice has advanced features that go beyond traditional phone service and many competitors' offerings, including:

Combined AT&T U-verse Voice and AT&T wireless voice mail with U-verse Messaging, which provides a single voice mailbox that can be accessed from any phone line or PC.
U-verse Central, an online management portal that gives you the option to easily and conveniently manage your call preferences, voice mail, contacts, call history and more from any PC, in addition to the ability to control call preferences from your home phone.
An online voice mailbox to check, manage and forward voice mail from the online portal, much like an e-mail inbox.
Call History, which enables you to view your most recent incoming and outgoing calls online or to view your most recent incoming calls on your AT&T U-verse TV screen.
Click to Call, which will initiate a call from your home phone to any number in your Call History with one click of a mouse or the U-verse TV remote control.
An online Address Book that is accessible from any PC and allows you to Click to Call from your home phone, to create and share contact groups with other U-verse Voice customers or to set up distribution lists for voice messages.
Locate Me, a feature that provides simultaneous ringing on up to four wireless or landline numbers so that you never miss an important incoming call.
Traditional calling features, such as Call Screening, Call Blocking, Do Not Disturb and privacy settings.

All U-verse Voice customers will have 911 service. Where available via the local 911 network, U-verse Voice customers will have E911 service. U-verse TV customers can choose from two flexible U-verse Voice calling plans:

U-verse Voice Unlimited, which includes unlimited local and nationwide minutes to any location in the U.S., Canada or U.S. territories for $40 a month. * U-verse Voice 1000, which includes 1,000 Call Anywhere minutes to any location in the U.S. or U.S. territories for $30 a month.

A second phone line, which shares the primary line's calling plan, can be added for $20 a month, and each plan features competitive international rates with no recurring monthly charge. Professional installation is included for new AT&T U-verse TV customers.

AT&T's wireless customers who subscribe to an AT&T Unity plan can call any AT&T U-verse Voice number from their mobile phone as part of the nation's largest free calling community without using any wireless Anytime Minutes.

AT&T U-verse Voice Rolls Out in Oklahoma

VoIP Monitor — Mon, 09 Jun 2008 19:14:43 GMT

AT&T announces the availability of AT&T U-verse Voice in parts of Oklahoma City, bringing consumers a next-generation digital voice service delivered over the AT&T U-verse Internet Protocol network. U-verse Voice brings together your AT&T wireline and wireless voice, broadband and TV services — all on one bill — with unique features that provide a new level of integration, convenience and control.

AT&T U-verse Voice completes the company’s IP triple play and is available to all new and existing U-verse TV customers in the Oklahoma City area. With U-verse Voice, customers receive new features that highlight the benefits of having advanced video, broadband, wireless and wireline voice services from a single provider.

AT&T U-verse Voice is a managed IP-based service that is delivered over AT&T’s fiber-rich network, unlike many VoIP providers that offer best-effort digital phone services over the public Internet. This allows U-verse Voice customers to enjoy great sound quality and reliability, as well as unmatched calling features that combine with your AT&T U-verse TV, broadband and wireless services from AT&T.

AT&T U-verse Voice has advanced features that go beyond traditional phone service and many competitors’ offerings, including:

Combined AT&T U-verse Voice and AT&T wireless voice mail with U-verse Messaging, which provides a single voice mailbox that can be accessed from any phone line or PC.
U-verse Central, an online management portal that gives you the option to easily and conveniently manage your call preferences, voice mail, contacts, call history and more from any PC, in addition to the ability to control call preferences from your home phone.
An online voice mailbox to check, manage and forward voice mail from the online portal, much like an e-mail inbox.
Call History, which enables you to view your most recent incoming and outgoing calls online or to view your most recent incoming calls on your AT&T U-verse TV screen.
Click to Call, which will initiate a call from your home phone to any number in your Call History with one click of a mouse or the U-verse TV remote control.
An online Address Book that is accessible from any PC and allows you to Click to Call from your home phone, to create and share contact groups with other U-verse Voice customers or to set up distribution lists for voice messages.
Locate Me, a feature that provides simultaneous ringing on up to four wireless or landline numbers so that you never miss an important incoming call.
Traditional calling features, such as Call Screening, Call Blocking, Do Not Disturb and privacy settings.

All U-verse Voice customers will have 911 service. Where available via the local 911 network, U-verse Voice customers will have Enhanced 911 (E911) service.

U-verse TV customers can choose from two flexible U-verse Voice calling plans:

U-verse Voice Unlimited, which includes unlimited local and nationwide minutes to any location in the U.S., Canada or U.S. territories for $40 a month.
U-verse Voice 1000, which includes 1,000 Call Anywhere minutes to any location in the U.S. or U.S. territories for $30 a month.

A second phone line, which shares the primary line’s calling plan, can be added for $20 a month, and each plan features competitive international rates with no recurring monthly charge. Professional installation is included for new AT&T U-verse TV customers.

AT&T Signs New VoIP Service Contract with Bulkmatic Transport

VoIP Monitor — Thu, 29 May 2008 16:49:41 GMT

AT&T announces a new VoIP service contract with Bulkmatic Transport Co., a leader in dry bulk cargo shipping and distribution. Addressing bandwidth issues and network reliability, AT&T's network solution will support traffic for more than 30 domestic locations on a consolidated, integrated platform.

Under the terms of the three-year contract, AT&T — Bulkmatic Transport Co.'s primary voice and network provider — will deploy its Private Network Transport, a fully managed network solution that runs on Multiprotocol Label Switching technology. AT&T's PNT offers any-to-any connectivity, providing secure access from Bulkmatic Transport Co.'s many locations. Additionally, the PNT solution's expanded bandwidth will enhance the stability and convenience of VoIP applications across the platform. VoIP technology provides flexibility to AT&T's customers, allowing greater convergence of data and voice applications on a single network structure.

In addition to voice and data services, Bulkmatic Transport Co. will receive the benefit of simplified and convenient billing with AT&T's BusinessDirect platform. Access to this service provides the enterprise with financial management tools that allow the shipping company to view and analyze company information and pay bills online.

AT&T Nears Completion of 3G Wireless Technology Deployment

VoIP Monitor — Thu, 22 May 2008 17:46:42 GMT

AT&T announces that, in the next month, the company will deploy High Speed Uplink Packet Access technology in the six remaining markets across AT&T's entire 3G (third-generation) wireless broadband network. When done, AT&T will have completed its deployment of HSUPA technology, which complements existing HSDPA technology, making AT&T the only U.S. carrier to have fully deployed HSPA technology in its 3G network.

Today the superfast AT&T 3G network is available in more than 275 markets. By year-end, the AT&T 3G network will be available in nearly 350 markets.

With the new addition of HSUPA technology, AT&T 3G users can enjoy uplink speeds between 500 and 800 Kbps. The technology is available in all but the few remaining AT&T 3G markets and will be included in all future deployments. The new upload speeds complement AT&T's 3G download capabilities, which currently offer up to 1.4 Mbps across all markets for customers who have capable devices, such as AT&T's LaptopConnect wireless modems.

Between 2005 and 2008, AT&T will have invested more than $20 billion in network improvements and upgrades — an average of $5 billion a year. AT&T recently turned down its older TDMA network, and that will allow the company to reuse valuable 850 MHz spectrum to expand and enhance 3G markets.

The company's HSPA network is the best-positioned among American carriers to grow in line with customer demand, evolving to HSPA+ and providing next-generation speeds without costly investments. AT&T plans to adopt LTE technology to reach even higher speeds in the long term.

AT&T has the largest digital voice and data network in the U.S. In addition, only AT&T can offer 3G roaming in 60 countries, including Japan and South Korea, and voice calling in more than 200 countries.

Equally as important as the network is the device through which a customer experiences it. AT&T's handset portfolio in company-owned stores is more than 75 percent 3G-capable — and will be even more enticing with the addition of more 3G-enabled smartphones in the summer and fall of 2008. Additionally, AT&T also has the most compelling set of 3G services, such as AT&T Video ShareSM, which allows users to share live video over wireless phones while on a voice call.

AT&T U-verse VoIP Launched in Parts of Austin and San Diego

VoIP Monitor — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 17:59:30 GMT

AT&T U-verse VoIP launched in parts of Austin and San Diego. U-verse VoIP brings together customers' AT&T wireline and wireless voice, broadband and TV services with unique features that provide a new level of integration, convenience and control.

AT&T U-verse VoIP completes the company's IP triple play and is available to all new and existing U-verse TV customers in the Austin and San Diego area. With U-verse Voice, customers receive a new set of features that highlight the benefits of having advanced video, broadband, wireless and wireline voice services from a single provider and all on one bill.

AT&T U-verse VoIP is delivered over AT&T's fiber-rich network, unlike many VoIP providers that offer best-effort digital phone services over the public Internet. This allows U-verse VoIP customers to enjoy great sound quality and reliability, as well as unmatched calling features that combine with customers' AT&T U-verse TV, broadband and AT&T wireless services.

AT&T U-verse VoIP has advanced features that go beyond traditional phone service and many competitors' offerings, including:

Combined AT&T U-verse VoIP and AT&T wireless voice mail with U-verse Messaging, which provides a single voice mailbox that can be accessed from any phone line or PC.
U-verse Central, an online management portal that gives users the option to easily and conveniently manage their call preferences, voice mail, contacts, call history and more from any PC, in addition to the ability to control call preferences from their home phone.
An online voice mailbox so that customers can listen to, manage and forward voice mail from the online portal, much like an e-mail inbox.
Call History, which enables customers to view their most recent incoming and outgoing calls online or to view their most recent incoming calls on their AT&T U-verse TV screen.
Click to Call, which will initiate a call from the customer's home phone to any number in a customer's Call History with one click of a mouse or the U-verse TV remote control.
An online Address Book that is accessible from any PC and allows customers to Click to Call from their home phone, to create and share contact groups with other U-verse VoIP customers or to set up distribution lists for voice messages.
Locate Me, a feature that provides simultaneous ringing on up to four wireless or landline numbers so that a customer never misses an important incoming call.
Traditional calling features, such as Call Screening, Call Blocking, Do Not Disturb and privacy settings.

All U-verse VoIP customers will have 911 service. Where available via the local 911 network, U-verse Voice customers will have E911 service.

U-verse TV customers can choose from two flexible U-verse VoIP calling plans:

U-verse VoIP Unlimited, which includes unlimited local and nationwide minutes to any location in the U.S., Canada or U.S. territories for $40 a month.
U-verse VoIP 1000, which includes 1,000 Call Anywhere minutes to any location in the U.S. or U.S. territories for $30 a month.

A second phone line, which shares the primary line's calling plan, can be added for $20 a month, and each plan features competitive international rates with no recurring monthly charge. Professional installation is included for new AT&T U-verse TV customers.

AT&T wireless customers who subscribe to an AT&T Unity plan can call any AT&T U-verse VoIP number from their mobile phone as part of the nation's largest free calling community without using up any wireless Anytime Minutes.

AT&T to Extend Napster Mobile to More Than 12 Million Customers

VoIP Monitor — Thu, 27 Mar 2008 20:12:17 GMT

AT&T announces the immediate availability of two new music applications mSpot's Make-UR-Tones and Remix and plans to significantly expand offerings for Napster Mobile over-the-air downloads. Make-UR-Tones allows customers to customize ringtones by using their mobile phone, and the Remix application gives customers access to their PC-based music collections directly from their phone. The result for mobile music lovers is more freedom to listen to the songs they want, when they want, on their AT&T mobile phone.

mSpot Make-UR-Tones
With the launch of mSpot Make-UR-Tones, AT&T — the exclusive provider of the application becomes the first national carrier to allow customers to easily use their wireless phone to create a ringtone from their favorite part of a song. The Make-UR-Tones application is designed to give users the flexibility to customize a one- to 30-second ringtone from a full song. AT&T's Make-UR-Tones subscribers can enjoy exclusive access to more than 250,000 titles from music labels EMI Music, Universal Music Group, Warner Music Group, INgrooves and IRIS.

To use the application, AT&T customers simply download mSpot's Make-UR-Tones from the AT&T MEdia Mall on their mobile phone, use the advanced search engine to select a song and then cut the part of the song they want to customize as their ringtone, up to 30 seconds, by using the application's easy-to-use waveform editor. Make-UR-Tones lets users listen to the song while it's being edited and preview the ringtone before downloading a copy to their phones.

The mSpot Make-UR-Tones is available for a monthly subscription of $6.99 for three ringtones. Additional customized ringtones can be purchased on an a la carte basis for $2.99. Make-UR-Tones is currently available for download on the Samsung SYNC, Samsung A737, Samsung A747 and the Motorola V3xx and will expand to additional phones in the near future.

mSpot Remix
AT&T is now offering a music-on-demand application for customers who want the ability to access and enjoy their PC-based music libraries from their mobile phone. Available today, mSpot Remix is the newest music application from AT&T Mobile Music and is available from AT&T MEdia Mall.

The mSpot Remix mobile player connects with a PC over the AT&T network, providing access to stored songs and playlists. When a customer hits Play from the mSpot Remix mobile player, Remix immediately starts playing the song from the PC while downloading the entire track in the background. Remix then saves the song to the phone's memory card, so the customer has access to the song even when not connected to the network.

The mSpot Remix service is available for a monthly subscription of $9.99, which allows users to download 75 songs a month. AT&T also will offer a Remix booster pack for $2.99, which provides an additional 10 songs. Remix is compatible with the Samsung SYNC, the Samsung A737 and the LG SHINE.

For more information on mSpot Make-UR-Tones or Remix, visit www.att.com/mediamall. To see a demo of either application while at CTIA Wireless 2008, visit the AT&T booth — number 3428.

Napster Mobile Coming to More AT&T Phones
Beginning this summer, more AT&T customers will be able to search a catalog of more than 5 million songs from their AT&T wireless phone, preview 30-second samples before they buy and download music directly to their phone while on the go, all with Napster Mobile. AT&T first announced Napster Mobile in November of last year with the launch of the SLM by Samsung. The company plans to expand the industry's leading mobile music platform by making the service available to more than 12 million customers, beginning this summer. In addition to browsing and downloading music to their phone, AT&T customers will receive a copy of each song downloaded online from Napster.

AT&T offers more choices for mobile music than any other U.S. carrier and was the first carrier in the nation to provide the Napster To Go subscription music service, as well as DRM-free instant track deliveries to eMusic.

AT&T CallVantage VoIP Service Experiencing Outage

VoIP Monitor — Thu, 20 Mar 2008 19:10:31 GMT

It appears that AT&T's CallVantage VoIP service has been experiencing an outage across the country for some time now. Users who spoke to AT&T's CV support were told there was a "huge outage". At 11am EDT they had not diagnosed the problem yet.

Area's affected are numberous and you can keep up with the latest news at dslreports.com to find out when area's are coming back online.

AT&T U-verse VoIP Launches in Sacramento

VoIP Monitor — Mon, 17 Mar 2008 15:54:42 GMT

AT&T U-verse Voice in Sacramento brings consumers a next-generation digital voice service delivered over the AT&T U-verse IP network. U-verse Voice brings together customers' AT&T wireline and wireless voice, broadband and TV services with unique features that provide a new level of integration, convenience and control.

AT&T U-verse Voice completes the company's IP triple play. With U-verse Voice, customers receive a new set of features that highlight the benefits of having advanced video, broadband, wireless and wireline voice services from a single provider -- and all on one bill.

AT&T U-verse Voice is a managed IP-based service that is delivered over AT&T's fiber-rich network, unlike many VoIP providers that offer best-effort digital phone services over the public Internet. This allows U-verse Voice customers to enjoy great sound quality and reliability, as well as unmatched calling features that combine with customers' AT&T U-verse TV, broadband and AT&T wireless services.

AT&T U-verse Voice has advanced features that go beyond traditional phone service and many competitors' offerings, including:

Combined AT&T U-verse Voice and AT&T wireless voice mail with U-verse Messaging, which provides a single voice mailbox that can be accessed from any phone line or PC.
U-verse Central, an online management portal that gives users the option to easily and conveniently manage their call preferences, voice mail, contacts, call history and more from any PC, in addition to the ability to control call preferences from their home phone.
An online voice mailbox so that customers can listen to, manage and forward voice mail from the online portal, much like an e-mail inbox.
Call History, which enables customers to view their most recent incoming and outgoing calls online or to view their most recent incoming calls on their AT&T U-verse TV screen.
Click to Call, which will initiate a call from the customer's home phone to any number in a customer's Call History with one click of a mouse or the U-verse TV remote control.
An online Address Book that is accessible from any PC and allows customers to Click to Call from their home phone, to create and share contact groups with other U-verse Voice customers or to set up distribution lists for voice messages.
Locate Me, a feature that provides simultaneous ringing on up to four wireless or landline numbers so that a customer never misses an important incoming call.
Traditional calling features, such as Call Screening, Call Blocking, Do Not Disturb and privacy settings.

All U-verse Voice customers will have 911 service. Where available via the local 911 network, U-verse Voice customers will have E911 service.

U-verse TV customers can choose from two flexible U-verse Voice calling plans:

U-verse Voice Unlimited, which includes unlimited local and nationwide minutes to any location in the U.S., Canada or U.S. territories for $40 a month.
U-verse Voice 1000, which includes 1,000 Call Anywhere minutes to any location in the U.S. or U.S. territories for $30 a month.

A second phone line, which shares the primary line's calling plan, can be added for $20 a month, and each plan features competitive international rates with no recurring monthly charge. Professional installation is included for new AT&T U-verse TV customers.

AT&T wireless customers who subscribe to an AT&T Unity plan can call any AT&T U-verse Voice number from their mobile phone as part of the nation's largest free calling community without using up any wireless Anytime Minutes.

AT&T U-verse VoIP Launches in Kansas City

VoIP Monitor — Mon, 03 Mar 2008 18:50:24 GMT

AT&T U-verse VoIP rolls out in Kansas City, Kan., bringing consumers a next-generation digital voice service delivered over the AT&T U-verse Internet Protocol network. U-verse Voice brings together customers' AT&T wireline and wireless voice, broadband and TV services with unique features that provide a new level of integration, convenience and control.

AT&T U-verse Voice completes the company's IP triple play. With U-verse Voice, customers receive a new set of features that highlight the benefits of having advanced video, broadband, and wireless and wireline voice services from a single provider - and all on one bill.

AT&T U-verse Voice is a managed IP-based service that is delivered over AT&T's fiber-rich network, unlike many VoIP providers that offer best-effort digital phone services over the public Internet. This allows U-verse Voice customers to enjoy great sound quality and reliability, as well as unmatched calling features that combine with customers' AT&T U-verse TV, broadband and AT&T wireless services.

AT&T U-verse Voice has advanced features that go beyond traditional phone service and many competitors' offerings, including:

Combined AT&T U-verse Voice and wireless voice mail with U-verse Messaging, which provides a single voice mailbox that can be accessed from any phone line or PC.
U-verse Central, an online management portal that gives users the option to easily and conveniently manage their call preferences, voice mail, contacts, call history and more from any PC, in addition to the ability to access voice mail and control call preferences from their home phone.
An online voice mailbox so that customers can listen to, manage and forward voice mail from the online portal, much like an e-mail inbox.
Call History, which enables customers to view their most recent incoming and outgoing calls online or to view their most recent incoming calls on their AT&T U-verse TV screen.
Click to Call, which will connect a call to any number in a customer's Call History with one click of a mouse or the U-verse TV remote control.
An online Address Book that is accessible from any PC and allows customers to Click to Call from their home phone, to create and share contact groups with other U-verse Voice customers or to set up distribution lists for voice messages.
Locate Me, a feature that provides simultaneous ringing on up to four wireless or landline numbers so that a customer never misses an important incoming call.
Traditional calling features, such as Call Screening, Call Blocking, Do Not Disturb and privacy settings.

All U-verse Voice customers will have 911 service. Where available via the local 911 network, U-verse Voice customers will have E911 service.

U-verse TV customers can choose from two flexible U-verse Voice calling plans:

U-verse Voice Unlimited, which includes unlimited local and nationwide minutes to any location in the U.S., Canada or U.S. territories for $40 a month.
U-verse Voice 1000, which includes 1,000 Call Anywhere minutes to any location in the U.S. or U.S. territories for $30 a month.

A second phone line, which shares the primary line's calling plan, can be added for $20 a month, and each plan features competitive international rates with no recurring monthly charge. Professional installation is included for new AT&T U-verse TV customers.

AT&T wireless customers who subscribe to an AT&T Unity plan can call any AT&T U-verse Voice number as part of the nation's largest free calling community without using up any wireless Anytime Minutes.

AT&T Business in a Box Simplifies Communications

VoIP Monitor — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 21:26:51 GMT

AT&T announces the availability of AT&T Business in a Box, a service that harnesses the power of Internet Protocol communications to simplify IT operations for smaller and midsize businesses and branch offices of large businesses. The solution brings the advantages of AT&T's long history of innovation in the enterprise business market to the SMB market.

AT&T Business in a Box enables migration from traditional analog to VoIP solutions, reducing operating expenses by integrating voice and data services. It addresses the complexity and interoperability challenges of small and midsize business by delivering a simple converged network endpoint. The service features a device equipped with all necessary data ports and connectors and delivers:

Internet access routing with built-in firewall protection.
Virtual Private Network capabilities.
Wi-Fi data access capabilities.
Local area network connectivity with Power Over Ethernet connections.

AT&T Business in a Box delivers many communications capabilities traditionally reserved for larger enterprises. The solution is ideal for smaller or midsize businesses with a single office or larger organizations with multiple sites that have five to 50 employees each. The solution is well-suited for a variety of small sites, including retail, health care clinics, restaurants and financial, legal and real estate offices.

Businesses for which the AT&T Business in a Box solution especially makes sense include those that are:

Lacking an on-site IT support.
Moving to new location.
Upgrading, expanding or replacing their local area network.
Deploying various voice and data technologies that must work together.

The new solution is based on established industry standards and is compatible with multiple analog and IP handsets. Throughout the year, new features and additional capacity will be added to further enhance the capabilities of AT&T Business in a Box.

AT&T U-verse VoIP Rolls Out in Connecticut

VoIP Monitor — Tue, 12 Feb 2008 19:05:19 GMT

AT&T announces the availability of AT&T U-verse Voice in Connecticut, bringing consumers a next-generation digital voice service delivered over the AT&T U-verse VoIP network. U-verse Voice brings together customers' AT&T wireline and wireless voice, broadband and TV services with unique features that provide a new level of integration, convenience and control.

AT&T U-verse Voice completes the company's IP triple play. With U-verse Voice, customers receive a new set of features that highlight the benefits of having advanced video, broadband, wireless and wireline voice services from a single provider.

AT&T U-verse Voice is a managed IP-based service that is delivered over AT&T's fiber-rich network, unlike many VoIP providers that offer best-effort digital phone services over the public Internet. This allows U-verse Voice customers to enjoy great sound quality and reliability, as well as unmatched calling features that combine with customers' AT&T U-verse TV, broadband and AT&T wireless services.

AT&T U-verse Voice has advanced features that go beyond traditional phone service and many competitors' offerings, including:

Combined AT&T U-verse Voice and wireless voice mail with U-verse Messaging, which provides a single voice mailbox that can be accessed from any phone line or PC.
U-verse Central, an online management portal that gives users the option to easily and conveniently manage their call preferences, voice mail, contacts, call history and more from any PC, in addition to the ability to access voice mail and control call preferences from their home phone.
An online voice mailbox so that customers can listen to, manage and forward voice mail from the online portal, much like an e-mail inbox.
Call History, which enables customers to view their most recent incoming and outgoing calls online or to view their most recent incoming calls on their AT&T U-verse TV screen.
Click to Call, which will connect a call to any number in a customer's Call History with one click of a mouse or the U-verse TV remote control.
An online Address Book that is accessible from any PC and allows customers to Click to Call, to create and share contact groups with other U-verse Voice customers or to set up distribution lists for voice messages.
Locate Me, a feature that provides simultaneous ringing on up to four wireless or landline numbers so that a customer never misses an important incoming call.
Traditional calling features, such as Call Screening, Call Blocking, Do Not Disturb and privacy settings.

All U-verse Voice customers will have 911 service. Where available via the local 911 network, U-verse Voice customers will have E911 service.

U-verse TV customers can choose from two flexible U-verse Voice calling plans:

U-verse Voice -- Unlimited, which includes unlimited local and nationwide minutes to any location in the U.S., Canada or U.S. territories for $40 a month.
U-verse Voice -- 1000, which includes 1,000 Call Anywhere minutes to any location in the U.S. or U.S. territories for $30 a month.

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AT&T U-verse Voice Launches in Detroit

VoIP Monitor — Tue, 22 Jan 2008 17:01:45 GMT

Detroit is the first area in the nation where AT&T U-verse Voice is available. AT&T U-verse Voice is a digital voice service delivered over the AT&T U-verse Internet Protocol network. The company began a controlled launch in late December and has since expanded the service's availability. The service will continue to expand to more local customers and additional markets in 2008.

AT&T U-verse Voice completes the company's IP triple play. With U-verse Voice, U-verse customers receive all the benefits of having advanced video, broadband, voice and wireless services from a single provider, and having their services work together for a new level of integration, functionality and convenience.

AT&T U-verse Voice is a managed VoIP service that is delivered over AT&T's fiber-rich network, unlike many cable and VoIP providers that offer best-effort digital phone services over the public Internet. This allows U-verse Voice customers to enjoy great sound quality and reliability, as well as unmatched calling features that combine with customers' AT&T U-verse TV, broadband and AT&T wireless services.

U-verse TV customers can choose from two flexible U-verse Voice calling plans:

U-verse Voice Unlimited, which includes unlimited local and nationwide minutes to any location in the U.S., Canada or U.S. territories for $40 a month.
U-verse Voice 1000, which includes 1,000 Call Anywhere minutes to any location in the U.S. or U.S. territories for $30 a month.

AT&T U-verse Voice has advanced features that go beyond traditional phone service and many competitors' offerings, including:

An online management portal that gives users the option to easily and conveniently manage their call preferences, voice mail, contacts, call history and more from any PC, in addition to the ability to access voice mail and control call preferences from their home phone.
U-verse Messaging, which combines AT&T wireless and U-verse Voice messages into a single voice mailbox that can be accessed from any phone line or PC. Customers can listen to, manage and forward voice mail from the online portal, much like an e-mail inbox.
Call History, which is viewable online or on a customer's AT&T U-verse TV screen, with a list of the 500 most recent call records.
Click to Call, which will connect a call to any number in a customer's Call History with one click of a mouse or the U-verse TV remote control.
An online Address Book that is accessible from any PC and allows customers to Click to Call and to create and share contact groups or distribution lists for voice messages.
Locate Me, a feature that allows incoming calls to ring up to four numbers at the same time so that a customer never misses an important call.
And traditional calling features, such as Call Screening, Call Blocking, Do Not Disturb and privacy settings.

Where available, U-verse Voice customers will have Enhanced 911 (E911) service.

AT&T Completes Interwise Acquisition

VoIP Monitor — Fri, 02 Nov 2007 16:24:51 GMT

AT&T completes of the acquisition of Interwise. In parallel, AT&T launches AT&T Connect, the first in a planned series of converged AT&T-branded voice, video and web conferencing products and services that will accelerate the delivery of unified communications to companies worldwide. With the introduction of AT&T Connect, the company is advancing its focus on delivering a comprehensive, global portfolio of unified communications solutions. The demand for such services is expected to total $5.9 billion in 2007, with continued growth expected in 2008 and beyond.

AT&T is rapidly integrating its wired and wireless network assets, over which it intends to deliver a portfolio of services to help businesses integrate all of their communications applications -- wired and wireless voice services, conferencing capabilities, including VoIP, Web and video, and presence-based applications, such as instant messaging and directories.

Communications is the basic component of commerce, and collaboration has become mission-critical for today's enterprises. Businesses are using their combined software and communications networking capabilities to drive decision-making, swiftly react to their competition and use the inherent productivity and cost-savings returns of collaboration tools to invest in furthering their core capabilities.

AT&T’s enhanced solutions are designed to bring the broad benefits of collaboration to where they matter most by enhancing enterprise’s ability to compete more effectively while improving the bottom line.

AT&T’s first unified communications solution is AT&T Connect, a converged IP conferencing service that provides unlimited voice, Web and video conferencing capabilities and can be scaled for businesses of all sizes. In addition to offering on-premises and fully hosted conferencing capabilities, AT&T will now be able to offer a unique, hybrid solution that allows enterprises to receive the cost and security benefits of on-site software with the rapid startup, geographic reach and capacity protection of its hosted service.

The company intends to integrate its existing award-winning portfolio of voice, Web and video conferencing services with the capabilities it gains from the Interwise acquisition by the fourth quarter of 2008. Existing AT&T conferencing and messaging services will be key elements in AT&T’s ongoing development plans to deliver expanded unified communications solutions.

In October, the company said it would acquire Interwise for $121 million in cash. With today’s announcement, Interwise joins AT&T's existing enterprise services organization as a subsidiary of AT&T Communications Corp.

AT&T to Expand Wholesale VoIP Service

VoIP Monitor — Tue, 30 Oct 2007 20:27:52 GMT

AT&T expands the availability of AT&T Voice Over IP Connect Service (AVOICS). AVOICS is the flagship wholesale VoIP offer for U.S. service providers that want IP-based connectivity to AT&T's global IP network for long distance call termination. For more than 10 years, AT&T has provided wholesale VoIP solutions, which address the U.S. domestic and international termination needs of service providers with a variety of connectivity options.

AVOICS provides unbranded and unbundled transport over the AT&T network, as well as termination of international and U.S. domestic traffic. Customers connect to the service via AT&T's Managed Internet Service/Multiprotocol Label Switching-Private Network Transport service, which provides class-of-service voice quality, key security elements and advanced network reliability. AVOICS is highly scalable and accepts U.S.-originated domestic outbound (1+) calls and international outbound (011+) calls by using SIP signaling.

AT&T has expanded the scale and scope of its wholesale VoIP services, and is now offering AVOICS to customers that want the service with T1, T3 and OCX connectivity as well as meeting a market demand for a customer managed model. Initially introduced with limited availability, AVOICS is now available to all of AT&T's U.S.-based wholesale customers. The expansion of AVOICS specifically includes:

Increased capacity in the VoIP network infrastructure to meet customer traffic demand -- Increased connectivity from T1 to T3 ... all the way to OC48
Moving from an AT&T Managed Router Model to a Customer Managed Router Model to monitor the circuit -- Native and non-native IP traffic on the same circuit with unique IP signaling addresses

AT&T has had more than a decade of wholesale VoIP success already in large part through its pioneer offer, Global Hubbing IP Access (GHIA), which will continue to play a key role in providing service to operators that carry substantial volumes of international traffic. With GHIA, customers send their VoIP traffic to the AT&T network for VoIP termination. If no VoIP termination is available, a Time Division Multiplexing (TDM) conversion is made to cost-effectively deliver calls over AT&T's highly reliable and secure network. AT&T also offers AT&T IP Toll-Free service to wholesale customers for use in their own large call centers, supporting their evolution to the contact center of the future.

AT&T's suite of wholesale VoIP services connects customers to one of the world's most advanced, secure and powerful global IP backbone networks, lessening the chance for disruption or delays. AT&T's VoIP customers are confident selling services that ride on AT&T's highly reliable network.

AT&T's Global Brand Tops Rivals in Awareness Rankings

VoIP Monitor — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 18:30:07 GMT

AT&T announces that it has scored the highest percentage of responses for unaided brand awareness associated with global data Virtual Private Networks in Telemark's most recent Global Brand Appeal survey. A total of 660 data network managers located in 27 countries were asked the question: "When thinking about companies that provide international data VPN (such as IP VPN, VoIP, MPLS, Hosting, Frame Relay, ATM, etc.), which companies come to mind?" The highest percentage of respondents (25 percent) named AT&T in their answers.

"Unaided brand awareness means customers recognize the AT&T brand without a prompt list of company names," said Janet Watkin, managing director of Telemark. "Awareness without prompting is an especially powerful measurement of brand authority. Consequently, the extent of AT&T's success on a global scale is a formidable achievement."

The report "Global Brand Appeal: Data VPN" measures brand awareness and the appeal of the competing global carrier brands to enterprise businesses.

"We recognize that our brand is one of our strongest assets and have worked hard to ensure that we meet our customer expectation," commented Lloyd Salvage, AT&T vice president for Global Segment Marketing. "Our primary aim is to satisfy the global networking requirements of multi-national customers around the world and while we could expect to get a high awareness rating in the United States, this truly global study in 27 countries is a powerful testament to the value we deliver to our customers around the world every day."

More than 15 companies are mentioned in Telemark's report, with detailed analysis on the following: AT&T; BT; Cisco; Embratel; KDDI; NTT Com; Oracle (Siebel); Orange Business Services; PCCW; SingTel; TDC; Telefonica; Telia Sonera; Telmex; T-Systems; and Verizon Business.

AT&T Flexible Reach to Help SMBs Make VoIP Transition

VoIP Monitor — Thu, 09 Aug 2007 19:22:57 GMT

AT&T announces that its IP Flexible Reach can now be added to existing key telephone systems. This enables SMBs to transition to VoIP without having to replace their legacy systems. IP Flexible Reach, which is available nationwide, uses VoIP technology and enables unlimited local and on-net calling, as well as competitive long distance and international calling plans. VoIP reduces costs by converging voice and data over a single IP connection and maximizes bandwidth usage over existing networks.

In addition, SMBs can benefit from IP Flexible Reach's "virtual telephone number" capability, which allows businesses to support telephone numbers from multiple local calling areas and expand their geographic coverage. This capability gives the appearance that a business is local even when the physical office may be hundreds or thousands of miles away.

The virtual telephone number capability also enables small businesses to:

Route calls originating from across the country and answer them at a central location.
Assign telephone numbers for branch office sites that are supported by a single centralized IP PBX.
Use an existing IP data network to conveniently distribute the calls to branch office sites.
Access local calling feature options, such as Local Number Portability, E911, Caller ID, Directory Listings, etc.
Simulate local numbers in the remote area and provide "free" local calling.

IP Flexible Reach provides alternate access to the Public Switched Telephone Network in most major markets in the United States and helps to ensure that telephony, including 9-1-1 calls, can continue outside the IP network if necessary. A built-in feature for IP Flexible Reach provides SMBs with voice-traffic prioritization, including the flexibility to expand when levels of higher bandwidth are required. In addition to key telephone systems, AT&T IP Flexible Reach is already available with TDM PBX's, certified IP PBX's and the AT&T Voice DNASM service.

New International Calling Rates by AT&T CallVantage

VoIP Monitor — Wed, 28 Feb 2007 21:49:31 GMT

AT&T announced the ability to call internationally at even better values.

Subscribers of AT&T CallVantage Softphone service will receive exclusive new international rates — which are up to 75 percent less than the already low AT&T CallVantage service plan rates — to approximately 40 countries. For example, AT&T CallVantage Softphone customers can call the United Kingdom, Greece, Beijing and Germany each for 2 cents a minute; Mexico City, 3 cents a minute; and New Delhi, 11 cents a minute.

"We know how important it is for families to keep in touch, whether relatives live down the street or across the world," said Anthony Tuggle, vice president of AT&T Voice Services. "As AT&T continues to expand its consumer offerings to better compete in and outside our traditional local service area, consumers are rewarded with compelling value."

The AT&T CallVantage Softphone is available as a stand-alone service or when bundled with an existing AT&T CallVantage service account. Customers can choose from the following two AT&T CallVantage Softphone service plans:

AT&T CallVantage Softphone 300 Minute plan offers customers unlimited local calling and 300 minutes of domestic long distance calling for $10.99 a month. Additional long distance minutes will be charged at 4 cents a minute. AT&T CallVantage Softphone Unlimited plan offers customers unlimited local and long distance calling within the United States and to Canada and Puerto Rico for only $19.99 a month.
Customers who bundle the Softphone service with an existing monthly AT&T CallVantage subscription will receive a discount of $5 each month. Customers who order the stand-alone AT&T CallVantage Softphone service will receive one free month of service and will not be required to pay the activation fee. The AT&T CallVantage Softphone service provides easy-to-use software, which can be downloaded onto PCs and laptops, allowing customers to make and receive phone calls directly through the computer. With a webcam, Softphone customers receive unlimited peer-to-peer videoconferencing capabilities with other AT&T CallVantage Softphone users.

For a full listing of international calling rates or to learn more about AT&T CallVantage and AT&T CallVantage Softphone services or to order the service, consumers should visit AT&T.com

AT&T Recognized for Leadership in WAN Markets

VoIP Monitor — Mon, 19 Feb 2007 19:07:04 GMT

Frost & Sullivan selected AT&T as the recipient of the 2006 Frost & Sullivan Award for Market Leadership in enterprise Wide Area Network (WAN) services in recognition of its ability to achieve a leading position among network operators, as well as market and technology innovation.

"AT&T has been innovative with the range of Global Enterprise WAN services offered, the reach of these services, and the technologies offered," said Frost & Sullivan research analyst Maria Zeppetella. "The company's goal is to be the 'provider of choice' serving MNCs' and governments' global needs for competitive, flexible, and integrated WAN solutions that span the globe."

Besides its extensive coverage in the United States, AT&T's network reach already extends to 137 countries supported by 1600+ MPLS-enabled service nodes and has 14 Internet Data Centers located across Europe and Asia/Pacific. The company also boasts 24/7 global support through regional work centers, in- language and currency billing and contracting, and comprehensive SLAs.

The new AT&T, a combination of AT&T and the former SBC, reported operating revenues of $63.1 billion for 2006, excluding its 60% proportionate ownership of Cingular Wireless, which supports over 61 million subscribers. Subsequently, AT&T closed a deal to purchase BellSouth in December 2006 taking over complete ownership of Cingular. AT&T states that now more than three quarters of its revenues come from wireless, business and wholesale services.

AT&T's portfolio of managed and unmanaged global enterprise WAN services include the AT&T ATM, AT&T Frame Relay, MPLS-based virtual private networks (VPNs), and International Private Line. Additionally, AT&T offers other global services including enterprise voice, VoIP, managed Internet service, corporate calling card, managed security services, call center applications, and remote access. While Ethernet access is provided domestically now, the company is rolling out Ethernet access to VPNs globally.

"AT&T owns and manages its global, transparent MPLS-enabled IP network to deliver unique customer solutions," noted Zeppetella. "Using its own seamlessly integrated global architecture, the company is able to provide one consistent service portfolio with one consistent service experience, and network management capabilities on a global basis."

AT&T is focused on addressing MNC customer needs with account planning, shared expectations, client satisfaction surveys and stewardship. The combination of its market and technology innovation initiatives in the area of global enterprise WAN services will help the company to maintain its market leadership position.

Frost & Sullivan presents this Award to a company that has demonstrated market share leadership through the implementation of market strategy. The recipient has displayed excellence in all areas of the market leadership process, including the identification of market challenges, drivers and restraints, as well as strategy development and methods of addressing these market dynamics.

Frost & Sullivan Best Practices Awards recognize companies in a variety of regional and global markets for demonstrating outstanding achievement and superior performance in areas such as leadership, technological innovation, customer service, and strategic product development. Industry analysts compare market participants and measure performance through in-depth interviews, analysis, and extensive secondary research in order to identify best practices in the industry.

AT&T Recognized as a Strong Performer

VoIP Monitor — Tue, 13 Feb 2007 19:15:06 GMT

AT&T announces that Forrester rated it as one of the strongest performers in a thorough evaluation of enterprise-class Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) service providers in The Forrester Wave: US Enterprise-Class VoIP Services, Q1 2007 report. One of the earliest providers of a managed WAN- based VoIP offering, AT&T leads all other providers in planned IP Telephony and VoIP feature enhancements for 2007.

In extensive evaluations of leading telecommunications services providers, AT&T's VoIP offerings secured leadership rankings on many of the most important attributes expressed by enterprise buyers, including breadth of offering, IP PBX product and feature enhancements, flexibility (particularly for VoIP interoperability with key PSTN features), hosted VoIP and IP Centrex services, managed IP PBX; VoIP conferencing; SIP Trunking and managed services.

AT&T continues to play a leading role in defining the future of the VoIP market, placing heavy emphasis on bringing to market the advanced business services that enterprises need, as they continue to evaluate the productivity and cost-savings benefits associated with VoIP.

In evaluating AT&T's current offerings and strategy for U.S. enterprise- class VoIP services against over 120 criteria, Forrester concluded that AT&T provides the greatest breadth of managed IP PBX services among competitors. AT&T also scored highest in Forrester's evaluation of SIP Trunking capabilities and hosted VoIP. Moreover, Forrester concluded that AT&T is the only provider that supports all three of the major IP PBX vendors today: Avaya, Cisco and Nortel. This multi vendor support is a critical consideration for enterprises that want to realize the many advantages of VoIP while protecting the investments they have already made in voice calling systems.

Forrester also noted that AT&T leads all other providers in planned feature enhancements for 2007. And Forrester found that AT&T is the only provider currently building a third-generation VoIP service based on IMS, which allows users to move seamlessly between their homes, offices and the road while connected to a call or an application.

To prepare The Forrester Wave: US Enterprise-Class VoIP Services, Q1 2007, Forrester conducted primary research to develop a list of vendors that met its criteria to be evaluated in the VoIP market. Vendors were selected according to product and service fit, customer success and Forrester client demand. Forrester then evaluated the lead vendors according to criteria it had developed after examining user needs and conducting vendor and expert interviews.

"We are pleased to be recognized as a strong performer in The Forrester Wave," said Peggy Sexton, vice president, Business VoIP, AT&T. "We continue to work very hard to deliver the most sophisticated VoIP solutions in the industry that drive real value for all of our customers: from small and midsized companies to multinational enterprises."

Live Meeting Webconference Service for Businesses

VoIP Monitor — Mon, 12 Feb 2007 17:40:19 GMT

AT&T and Microsoft announced the availability of AT&T Live Meeting, a hosted Webconferencing service that enables users to communicate and collaborate in real time with a personal computer, an Internet connection and a telephone.

This newest offering in the AT&T Collaboration portfolio builds upon the company's previously announced global strategic alliance with Microsoft, which is focused on the development, deployment and delivery of next-generation, Internet Protocol (IP)-based communications services. AT&T Live Meeting uses Microsoft Connected Services Framework, a server-based product for building and managing complex services using a service-oriented architecture and Web-services interfaces.

"The introduction of AT&T Live Meeting is a milestone in our global alliance with Microsoft," said Shawn Conroy, vice president-Product Management, AT&T. "It provides an additional choice for our customers in Web- conferencing options and allows users to communicate in a media-rich, real- time manner while strengthening their collaboration and productivity."

The foundation for AT&T Live Meeting's capabilities is the ability to broadcast visuals of any type, including presentations and commonly used document types, to remote participants in real time. With the ability to virtually share any application or document over the Internet, there are essentially no boundaries to what, when, where or with whom users can communicate. This, combined with AT&T traditional and VoIP audioconferencing services, provides customers with complete collaboration capabilities.

AT&T Live Meeting uses the capabilities of Microsoft Office Live Meeting and AT&T's award-winning set of audioconferencing services, which includes VoIP conferencing and traditional TDM-based conferencing services. AT&T Live Meeting offers a set of tools that allows users to customize the level of interaction and collaboration among meeting participants. In conjunction with AT&T Live Meeting, users can access Microsoft Office Outlook, Microsoft Office Word, Microsoft Office Excel, Microsoft Office PowerPoint, Microsoft Office Project, Microsoft Office SharePoint Server and Microsoft Office Visio.

"The launch of the new AT&T Live Meeting service marks a key step forward in our alliance to drive new converged IP-based services to businesses," said Michael O'Hara, general manager for the Communications Sector at Microsoft. "Our relationship is focused on providing greater value to our customers. Microsoft Connected Services Framework is central to that strategy, because it allows communications companies such as AT&T to bring together a range of services -- including Microsoft Office Live Meeting -- in new combinations that address target audiences and user requirements. We're excited to bring this new service to market with AT&T and look forward to working together to deliver new offerings on Connected Services Framework in the future."

AT&T Live Meeting is easy to deploy and manage for AT&T customers. No additional software or hardware needs to be installed, since anyone with Internet access, a standard browser and a telephone can participate in an AT&T teleconference, all powered by Microsoft Live Meeting -- even through firewalls. The solution is built on a security-enhanced AT&T platform, which includes features such as:

Always-on SSL encryption, providing security-enhanced data transmission
Network security practices and business continuity of AT&T's global IP infrastructure
Strong password policies and 128-bit encryption
SAS70-certified data centers
Security-enhanced communication across firewalls

AT&T offers a large portfolio of collaboration services to enable customers to conduct productive, virtual meetings any time of the day or night and is a recognized leader in this space. Most recently, the AT&T TeleConference Services received the 2006 Customer Value Enhancement Award from the research firm Frost & Sullivan for its remarkable contribution to the North American Audio Conferencing Services Product Market.

More information on AT&T's collaboration services spanning conferencing and messaging is available at http://www.business.att.com/service_portfolio.jsp?repoid=ProductCategory&repoi tem=eb_application&serv_port=eb_application&segment=ent_biz.

AT&T to Help Emergency Responders Locate 9-1-1 Callers

VoIP Monitor — Thu, 01 Feb 2007 20:27:12 GMT

In recognition of professionals who respond to emergencies and help keep communities safe, AT&T Inc. announced $1 million in contributions to public safety organizations. AT&T provided $750,000 to the Public Safety Foundation of America, Inc. to help first-responders locate more 9-1-1 callers in times of emergency. Additionally, a $250,000 contribution to the National Fraternal Order of Police Foundation recognizes the contributions of law enforcement officers and supports the families of officers killed in the line of duty.

"We remain very grateful to the dedicated professionals who work every day to keep our communities safe -- especially law enforcement officers, firefighters and other first-responders," said Jim Cicconi, AT&T senior executive vice president-External and Legislative Affairs. "We are proud to play a part in helping these professionals and extending our commitment to public safety to include the beneficial programs administered by the Public Safety Foundation of America and the National Fraternal Order of Police Foundation."

AT&T's $750,000 contribution to the Public Safety Foundation of America will help equip first-responders -- police, firefighters, emergency medical personnel --- with the tools they need in order to respond to 9-1-1 calls made from mobile phones and Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) devices. In counties with call centers not yet IP-enabled, dispatchers cannot always pinpoint a caller's location from those devices.

Separately, AT&T provided a $250,000 contribution to the National Fraternal Order of Police Foundation (FOP Foundation), which serves police officers, their families and communities nationwide. Funds will support a program providing relief to police officers and their families struck by natural disasters, as well as a scholarship program for the spouses of officers killed in the line of duty.

In addition, AT&T funds to the FOP Foundation will support the National Peace Officers' Memorial Service, an annual initiative honoring the memories and families of law enforcement officers across the U.S. who lost their lives in the line of duty in the previous year. 2006 marked the 25th anniversary of the memorial service.

AT&T has a long history of supporting organizations that provide public safety and that address vital community needs. In recent years, the company has supported organizations that improve emergency-response communications, help police officers protect communities and provide domestic disaster relief to communities most in need. In 2006, AT&T contributed more than $101 million through corporate-, employee- and AT&T Foundation-giving programs to nonprofit organizations across the country.

Steven Colbert Simplifies Cingular Name Change to AT&T

VoIP Monitor — Thu, 18 Jan 2007 19:39:47 GMT

Funny Steven Colbert video on Cingular's name change to AT&T, I first saw over at http://saunderslog.com

AT&T Raises the Bar for Customer Satisfaction

VoIP Monitor — Tue, 12 Dec 2006 23:00:54 GMT

AT&T has set a new world record in customer satisfaction, according to a report published today by Telemark. Beating off fierce competition from global rivals, such as Deutsche Telekom, Verizon, Orange Business Services, Telefonica and last year's victor, BT, AT&T has successfully raised the bar to become the global data VPN provider deemed most indispensable to customers.

The report, "DataVPN, Raising the Bar" measures customer satisfaction with data VPN services supplied by global operators. The world record is defined as the best-ever annual satisfaction score achieved by a global provider in Telemark's survey of business enterprises. It aims to highlight which suppliers are raising the bar to new levels on a world level.

"AT&T has this year exceeded its personal best in an incredible 17 categories and is, therefore, a highly deserving recipient of this accolade," explained Janet Watkin, managing director of Telemark. "The bar has been raised, and other providers now have a tough lead to follow."

"We've worked exceedingly hard over the past year to ensure that our customer satisfaction levels are high across the board and throughout all global regions," commented John Slamecka, head of AT&T EMEA. "We know already that our customers appreciate this, but it's wonderful that this has been officially recognised in this way."

Justice Dept Approves AT&T-BellSouth Merger

VoIP Monitor — Wed, 11 Oct 2006 19:03:29 GMT

The United States Department of Justice (DOJ) today cleared AT&T's merger with BellSouth. AT&T General Counsel James D. Ellis announced, "This unequivocal and unconditional approval underscores the competitive nature of our industry and the pro-competitive benefits of this merger. AT&T is focused on bringing more video choices and next-generation broadband services to as many consumers as possible and our merger with BellSouth will help deliver these benefits to more consumers, more quickly".

Meanwhile, the Competition Coalition, an organization concerned about the remonopolization of the old Ma Bell telephone network, held different throughts, "Unfortunately, by endorsing the largest telecommunications merger in history, the DoJ ignored the interests of consumers and the valid concerns raised by many experts and organizations that the reconstitution of Ma Bell will lead to higher prices, job cuts, violations of customer privacy, and a widening of the digital divide. AT&T, with the help of a complicit government, is poised to control nearly half of the nation’s phone lines, and will also be the largest wireless and broadband Internet company in the country."

The DOJ's announcement comes as a federal court continues to scrutinize DoJ’s approval of the SBC/AT&T and Verizon/MCI mergers. Just days ago, the bipartisan leaders of the House Judiciary Committee, in a letter to DoJ, urged the agency not to act on the AT&T/BellSouth merger until the pending Tunney Act review was complete. The DoJ also received a bipartisan letter from members of the Senate Judiciary Committee expressing similar concerns about the proposed merger.

By issuing a press release instead of a consent decree, DoJ avoids judicial review of the AT&T/BellSouth merger approval. The Tunney Act only permits judicial review of actual consent decrees, such as those entered into by the DoJ as part of its approval of the SBC/AT&T and Verizon/MCI mergers.

Ellis went on to say, "We commend the DOJ and its staff for conducting a professional, timely and thorough analysis. Today's communications marketplace is marked by numerous competing wireless and wireline networks, producing benefits for consumers, business customers and the economy."

"We look forward to the Federal Communications Commission's prompt approval of the merger so we can quickly begin delivering the benefits of innovative new services and increased competition to consumers."

AT&T Ensures Network Uptime for ISS

VoIP Monitor — Tue, 18 Jul 2006 18:53:20 GMT

AT&T Inc. announced a three-year contract with Internet Security Systems, Inc. (ISS) to upgrade its network infrastructure.

ISS, a pre-emptive enterprise security firm, was an early adopter of AT&T's Multiprotocol Label Switching (MPLS) technology in 2004. The new contract will extend AT&T MPLS services to ISS locations throughout the U.S., Europe and the Asia Pacific region. ISS will further leverage the network upgrade to add more company locations in the coming years.

AT&T's network upgrades provide ISS with disaster recovery services using the fastest and most advanced level of any-to-any mesh connectivity, ensuring that networks are not disrupted because of outages at centralized hubs.

"Internet Security Systems is in the business of protecting companies from any potential threat to their online operations," said Helen Berg, chief information officer of Internet Security Systems. "In order to provide ISS customers with the pre-emptive security they expect, ISS' business relies on the continuous network availability AT&T network services provide. The combination of pre-emptive protection and unfaltering connectivity ensures that ISS can respond to any disruption -- be it natural disasters, viruses or criminal hackers."

By leveraging its upgraded AT&T MPLS network, ISS will also roll out Voice over IP (VoIP) capabilities across its global enterprise. As a result, ISS will be able to streamline internal voice communications and achieve maximum cost-efficiencies.

In addition, the renewed contract includes dedicated Internet, long distance and AT&T ultravailable local access services.

Note: This AT&T release and other news announcements are available as part of an RSS feed at http://www.att.com/rss.

Accelerated Business VoIP Migration by AT&T and Avaya

VoIP Monitor — Tue, 24 Jan 2006 21:55:42 GMT

AT&T Inc. and Avaya Inc., a leading global provider of business communications applications, systems and services, announced a global strategic alliance to help businesses and government agencies manage through one of the most significant technology evolutions they face - the migration to voice over IP/IP telephony.

The alliance leverages AT&T's industry-leading global IP network, network design and management expertise with Avaya's enterprise IP communications technology to deliver end-to-end managed solutions from the wide area network to the IP phone on the desktop. The solutions provide comprehensive migration to IP telephony and the associated local area network (LAN) and wireless LAN infrastructure.

By giving customers a single point of contact for virtually every aspect of this migration, including design, implementation, operation, ongoing management and maintenance, the alliance is intended to accelerate global VoIP and IP telephony deployments and simplify the integration with traditional circuit-switched enterprise voice networks.

Through the alliance, customers will benefit from:

A single source for the seamless integration of IP-based voice and data networks worldwide
Reduced total cost of ownership
Flexibility and control to deploy IP telephony when and where it makes sense
Around-the-clock proactive network-monitoring and fault isolation and resolution via AT&T's integrated Global Enterprise Management System
Direct access through the AT&T Global Client Support Center to Avaya expertise and tools for integrated service delivery across the customer's network
Visibility and management control over their enterprise VoIP network and IP telephony infrastructure through the award-winning AT&T BusinessDirect Web portal.

"VoIP has shifted from an emerging technology to a critical business solution," according to Paris Burstyn, Director at Yankee Group. "We estimate the business VoIP market will grow at a CAGR of 31.4 percent to reach almost $3.3 billion in 2010. VoIP and IP telephony solutions appeal to businesses as they provide an excellent converged platform for voice and data, and improve the manageability of communications. In working with AT&T, customers can leverage the reliability and scalability of its global IP-MPLS network in support of their solution."

Numerous companies, like Fireman's Fund Insurance Company, a nationwide property and casualty insurer based in Novato, Calif., have already leveraged the AT&T-Avaya alliance to lay the groundwork for their IP telephony infrastructure. "The solution developed by AT&T and Avaya enables Fireman's Fund® to deliver any service, any where. With their assistance, we have designed a virtual environment for our telephony and networking platform across our business. It gives us a huge competitive advantage with additional capabilities and capacity," said James Dunn, chief technology officer, Fireman's Fund.

During the last few years, both companies have worked closely on designing and delivering IP telephony solutions. In 2003, AT&T announced interoperability of Avaya's IP telephony servers, gateways and MultiVantage(TM) software with AT&T's global IP network and VoIP services. Avaya Session Initiation Protocol (SIP)-enabled servers are in the process of completing interoperability testing as well.

"Interoperability is one of the biggest challenges facing businesses and government agencies today, as they plan their migration to VoIP and IP telephony. This alliance addresses that challenge, ensuring that regardless of where enterprises are in this migration, their traditional voice networks will interoperate with their IP-based voice network and equipment," said Eric Shepcaro, AT&T vice president of business strategy and development. "Our expertise and experience in network design, implementation, operation and life-cycle management - coupled with Avaya's leading IP telephony technology - will deliver the improved performance and security that customers expect from their converged voice and data networks."

This alliance formalizes the joint work both companies have been doing and expands the relationship globally, providing a consistent customer experience regardless of location. As a result, AT&T has integrated a full suite of Avaya IP telephony products, including Avaya Communication Manager, with the AT&T IP Telephony and LAN Service. With this end-to-end solution, AT&T is able to manage a customer's entire IP telephony infrastructure, such as IP PBXs, media servers, voice gateways, voicemail systems, IP phones and IP soft phones.

"Working with industry leaders, such as AT&T, is a key component of Avaya's solution delivery model for businesses of all sizes," said Peter Leuzzi, Avaya vice president, Strategic Alliances and Partnerships. "Integrating the strengths of Avaya's business communications solutions and service capabilities with AT&T's global network reach and depth of service offerings creates streamlined solution options for companies that are planning to migrate to IP telephony."

Under the alliance, Avaya IP telephony products, including the Avaya IP Office converged solution for small and medium businesses, also have been integrated into the global AT&T Solution Center Lab Network, which helps businesses quickly assess, plan, design and implement new network solutions. The lab network enables customers to "test drive" new applications, services and network designs to ensure optimal performance.

AT&T IP Telephony and LAN service is part of the company's comprehensive suite of business VoIP services. Last year, AT&T introduced the Dynamic Network Applications(SM) suite of IP communications services. AT&T Voice DNA(SM), an award-winning network-based VoIP service, is the first of these services available in the market. More information on AT&T VoIP and IP telephony services is available at http://www.business.att.com.

Some VoIP Providers Fall Short of E911 Deadline

VoIP Monitor — Tue, 29 Nov 2005 23:05:47 GMT

Vonage the nation's largest provider of VoIP, could now be barred from allowing new customers to sign up. This is because Vonage failed to meet the required deadline of the FCC providing customers with reliable emergency 911 (E911) services to its subscribers. AT&T also failed to meet the Monday, November 28th deadline. You can read more about the ruling here "Internet Phone Providers Fall Short on 911".

AT&T Wins $17 Million Networking Contract

VoIP Monitor — Tue, 08 Nov 2005 23:39:47 GMT

Aegis Communications Group Inc., a worldwide transaction-based business process outsourcing company, has awarded AT&T a $17 million networking services contract. The five-year agreement renews and expands a longstanding relationship between the two companies and provides Aegis and its clients the benefits of scale and cutting-edge technology.

Aegis enables clients to make customer contact programs more profitable and drive efficiency in back office processes. AT&T will provide Aegis with a network-based Internet Protocol Virtual Private Network (IP VPN) solution using Multi-Protocol Label Switching (MPLS) technology. The AT&T solution will enable Aegis to transition to Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) and connect seven of its locations with significantly increased bandwidth and faster speeds.

"AT&T plays an important role in helping Aegis to continuously strengthen our technology, which is a critical element of our approach to customer care and acquisition," said Kannan Ramasamy, President and CEO of Aegis. "AT&T's network solution offers the security, flexibility and reliability we need to ensure our applications communicate with each other and our systems exchange information with our customers' systems."

The majority of Aegis' business consists of helping clients manage inbound and outbound contacts with their customers, putting the company on the front lines in the effort to improve customer care. A Purdue University study revealed that 80 percent of U.S. companies provide "poor customer service." A recent Better Business Bureau telephone survey of 1,000 households found that 73 percent had experienced customer rage recently.

In contrast, annual surveys consistently rank Aegis in the top 10 in inbound and top 20 in outbound contact management.

AT&T also will also provide the highest availability and reliability by deploying AT&T ACCU-Ring(R) Network Access Service at Aegis' headquarters building. ACCU-Ring's self-healing capabilities help ensure financial, customer relationship management and business data can flow securely and uninterrupted among the company's locations.

In addition to VoIP, the network will handle critical business applications as well as e-mail and Intranet services. Additionally, AT&T's enterprise hosting services offer Aegis a continuum of hosting and management capabilities that provide a flexible, global infrastructure supporting their e-business applications.

Aegis can monitor the performance of its network and applications through the secure AT&T customer portal, AT&T BusinessDirect(R), which provides operational efficiencies including around-the-clock online access to real-time reports on network performance and direct connection to trouble management systems

AT&T to Upgrade EJ Prescott's Network

VoIP Monitor — Tue, 04 Oct 2005 15:33:44 GMT

AT&T has been selected by EJ Prescott Inc., a leading distributor of water, sewer, and drain materials to provide an Internet Protocol Virtual Private Network (IP VPN) connecting 14 sites located throughout the Midwestern and Northeastern United States. Terms of the agreement were not disclosed.

AT&T will convert existing Frame Relay sites across Maine, Massachusetts, Vermont, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, Ohio and Indiana to Multiprotocol Label Switching (MPLS) technology, enabling seamless integration of legacy technologies onto a standardized platform. This will also pave the way for the future introduction of Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) service allowing enhanced communication between divisions, sales and service representatives and customers.

"Communication and responsiveness are essential to dealing with water at the magnitude we do," said, Dan Willette, Manager of Information Technologies, EJ Prescott. "By migrating to an IP based network we will significantly improve the flow and delivery of products between our divisions and to our customers enabling EJ Prescott to maintain our tradition of providing the highest standard of customer service."

Applebee's Network Going High-Speed, Does This Mean Faster Service?

VoIP Monitor — Thu, 15 Sep 2005 18:32:32 GMT

AT&T announced that it has won a three-year, $1.5 million networking contract from Thomas & King Inc., a franchisee of more than 85 Applebee's Neighborhood Grill & Bar and Johnny Carino's restaurants in Kentucky, Ohio and Arizona.

Under the terms of the agreement, AT&T will provide an Internet Protocol Virtual Private Network (IP VPN) connecting Thomas & King's headquartersand 85-plus restaurants with increased bandwidth and faster speeds. The solution uses Multi-Protocol Label Switching (MPLS) technology, enabling Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) and class of service with priority queuing for business applications.

In addition to VoIP, the network will also handle Intranet, e-mail, credit card processing and training videos applications.

"We are growing at the rate of six to eight new restaurants per year and decided it was time to revamp our network," said Mike Scanlon, president and CEO of Thomas & King Inc. "AT&T has been a trusted supplier for many years, and so we turned to them to help us manage our growth and increase productivity through practical technology solutions."

Thomas & King will also have around-the-clock online access to real-time reports on network performance and direct connection to electronic billing and trouble management systems through the secure AT&T BusinessDirect portal.

AT&T Wins Contract From Allied Electronics

VoIP Monitor — Wed, 07 Sep 2005 19:40:35 GMT

AT&T announced that it has successfully implemented an Internet Protocol Virtual Private Network (IP VPN) for Allied Electronics, a distributor of electronic and electromechanical component products, under a $2.1 million contract. AT&T also won an additional $1.4 million contract to extend and expand voice networking services for the company. Both contracts run for three years.

AT&T is providing a high-speed data network that connects Allied Electronics' local sales offices directly to each other and to the company's headquarters and prioritizes traffic so that critical functions are not compromised by limited bandwidth. The new voice networking agreement will save the company an estimated 30 percent. Combined, the AT&T data and voice solutions also pave the way for Allied Electronics to implement Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) technology.

"With a proven track record, best-in-class service and ability to focus multiple resources on our issues, AT&T clearly has the competitive advantage," said Rick Davidson, director of technology for Allied Electronics. "By selecting AT&T for all our data and voice networking services, we have set the foundation for a corporate-wide VoIP implementation beginning later this year."

AT&T Increases Hurricane Katrina Relief Efforts

VoIP Monitor — Fri, 02 Sep 2005 19:39:59 GMT

AT&T announced additional efforts to strengthen the emergency communications infrastructure and calling capabilities throughout the hurricane stricken Gulf Coast community.

"There's no way to quickly rebuild the communities or lives destroyed by a disaster of this magnitude," said AT&T Chairman and CEO David W. Dorman. "But we can facilitate restoration efforts and aid those whose lives have been disrupted by restoring crucial communications along the devastated Gulf Coast."

AT&T has offered its services to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and will establish IP-based calling centers where directed by the federal agency to give evacuees and emergency workers access to free calling.

By employing its AT&T CallVantage Service, the company can quickly provision broadband phone lines allowing callers to make free local and long distance calls to friends and families. The first of these calling centers is expected to be operational within a week's time.

To that end, the company announced the donation of 35,000 AT&T PrePaid Phone Cards for distribution to victims of Hurricane Katrina. The 30-minute cards will be distributed by the American Red Cross and the Salvation Army to aid victims throughout the nation.

And, the AT&T Foundation has increased its cash donation to the Red Cross to $1 million. Additionally, it has quadrupled its matching employee contributions for up to a total of $500,000, and set up a fund through the AT&T Pioneers to assist company employees who have been directly affected by the hurricane.

In Houston, AT&T is working with Avaya, Cisco Systems and SBC to establish a communications network for refugees who have been temporarily moved to the Astrodome.

The ad hoc coalition of telecom companies will deliver local, long distance and Internet services to Louisiana residents taking refuge in Houston. In total, more than 1,000 phone lines, as well as a data infrastructure, will be available in the vicinity of the Astrodome to allow people to call family members and friends.

Working closely with the Red Cross, and other technology companies, AT&T enhanced the communications network that it installed last year to support the 2004 Super Bowl hosted in Reliant Stadium. This IP infrastructure will make Houston the central hub for a state-of-the-art VoIP (Voice over IP) network being deployed to support the establishment of refugee camps throughout the region.

"Fortunately, AT&T had assets in place that allowed us to quickly assist the communications effort," said Dorman. "AT&T's employees are extremely dedicated to serving the community in this time of need."

AT&T's Internet and data networks have remained in service without interruption from the hurricane, and the company has provided several Emergency Communications Satellite Units that have been in use since Tuesday by the Louisiana State Police and civil emergency-communications authorities in Mississippi.

Graybar extends relationship with AT&T

VoIP Monitor — Wed, 10 Aug 2005 17:47:38 GMT

AT&T announced today that it has won a $7.5 million networking contract with St. Louis-based Graybar, a leader in the distribution of high-quality electrical, telecommunications and networking products, and an expert provider of related supply chain management and logistic services. The three-year contract expands a longstanding relationship between the two companies.

AT&T will deploy an Internet Protocol Virtual Private Network (IP VPN) integrating more than 250 Graybar distribution facilities across the United States. AT&T also will provide domestic and international toll-free services, enabling Graybar to deliver solutions more quickly and efficiently to its customers.

The VPN serves as a foundation for Graybar's evolution to a converged multi-service networking platform, enabling deployment of Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) and other converged services in the future. Based on Multi- Protocol Label Switching (MPLS) technology, the VPN enables Graybar to integrate its legacy network into a single, seamless IP-based network.

"Graybar's leading-edge information technology and logistics capabilities are raising the bar on performance and value for our customers," said Steven Becker, Vice President and Chief Information Officer for Graybar. "As we design and implement our next-generation data network, we will use AT&T's newest technologies, such as MPLS, to work to the advantage of our customers and suppliers. With this agreement, we are pleased to extend our long-term strategic relationship with AT&T."

Graybar uses the AT&T BusinessDirect® Web portal for all-electronic interactions, saving time and money. The secure portal gives Graybar online access to tools that provide real-time reports on network performance and direct access to AT&T's ordering, status, inventory and trouble management systems. AT&T BusinessDirect was recently recognized by the Yankee Group for providing customers with the strongest online support and service experience in the industry.

Today's Market For Residential Voice-Over-IP Report

VoIP Monitor — Wed, 23 Feb 2005 19:15:41 GMT

VoIP services have made tremendous strides of late with cable MSOs and AT&T wholeheartedly jumping into the fray. Are consumers ready for VoIP? This report analyzes the opportunities and obstacles to VoIP adoption and how VoIP is being used to complement television and Internet services. It profiles VoIP service providers and consumers using VoIP services and forecasts VoIP adoption over the next five years.

"Historic consumer data indicate that the motivation for consumers to subscribe to VoIP is there but perhaps not the means or opportunity, To attract new customers in 2005, service providers will need to implement a strategy that includes continued aggressive rollout plans and more targeted awareness and educational campaigns."

This report has an executive summary known as The Bottom Line which is a concise, executive level summary of the current state of the market, evolutionary path, and the implications for companies doing business in this space.

To read the report visit http://www.researchandmarkets.com/reports/c13224