Former Alltel, Verizon Customers Get AT&T's Network
AT&T Inc. announced Wednesday that some former Alltel and Verizon Wireless customers joining AT&T will see a change for the better as AT&T expands its service in Michigan.
AT&T is expanding its service in Michigan as a result of its acquisition of wireless assets from Verizon Wireless last June 22. The change affects former Alltel customers in Muskegon and former Verizon Wireless customers in Benzie, Gratiot, Isabella, Lake, Leelanau, Manistee, Mason, Mecosta, Missaukee, Montcalm, Newaygo, Osceola, and Wexford Counties.
AT&T said it's made significant network enhancements in the region so that the customers joining AT&T will now have access to the nation's fastest mobile broadband network and to AT&T's broad portfolio of mobile devices.
The launch of mobile broadband service is expected to enhance service for both former Alltel customers as well as existing AT&T customers in the areas. The allocation of additional wireless spectrum from this transaction will also provide customers with enhanced wireless connectivity and in-building coverage throughout areas including Muskegon and in Cadillac, where mobile broadband was not previously available.
"Converging the two networks results in combined strength and speed for customers, allowing them to enjoy access to the nation's fastest mobile broadband network experience with emerging devices and tens of thousands of mobile applications," said Brian Ducharme, vice president and general manager for AT&T Mobility and Consumer Markets in Michigan. "We've been working nonstop to upgrade the network and this integration of wireless assets expands the reach of our mobile broadband network across primarily rural areas of the state and demonstrates our ongoing commitment to bring the benefits of mobile broadband to as many Americans as possible."
AT&T customers can visit any company-owned retail location in their local area to inquire about products and services. To locate a store, customers can visit www.att.com/storelocator. Also part of the rebranding efforts, the following authorized retailers will offer AT&T products and services:
* SC Kiosks Inc., 1707 E. Sherman Blvd., Muskegon, 49444
Attitudes locations:
* 1888 Holton Rd., Ste. C, Muskegon, 49445
* 5600 Harvey St., RMU #9, Muskegon, 49445
* Five Star Cellular, 3263 E. Colby Rd., Whitehall, 49461
* Westshore Communications, 704 State Rd., Hart, 49420
Trained sales consultants will be available to demonstrate a wide range of AT&T's advanced wireless products and services. Shoppers can also test the latest smartphones, quick messaging devices, netbooks and tablets. Customers can also learn how to get the most from social networking, manage photos or navigate with GPS on exciting exclusive AT&T devices.
Former Alltel and Verizon Wireless consumer wireless customers in these areas had the option to receive a brand new AT&T handset, comparable to their existing device, at no additional cost. The vast majority of customers choosing free comparable devices are able to keep their existing rate plans, with no additional term commitment required.
Customers may also choose to upgrade their devices with a new two-year contract, an AT&T rate plan and any associated data plan. Customers choosing an AT&T rate plan can enjoy Mobile to Any Mobile, which gives customers unlimited calling to any mobile number in the United States, and A-List with Rollover, exclusive to AT&T, which offers unlimited calling to up to 10 additional numbers on any network and allows customers to keep their unused Anytime Minutes for up to 12 months.
AT&T will transition service for these former Alltel and Verizon Wireless subscribers over the coming weeks and is committed to ensuring a smooth transition for all customers. Prior to customers' transition dates, AT&T will communicate by text message and soundbite with customers the specific date and details of their transition to AT&T, and in the meantime, their existing devices will continue to work on the legacy networks.
Customers with questions about the transition process may visit www.att.com/alltel, call (800) 331-0500 or speak with an AT&T sales representative at a local retail location.