In a strategic about-face, AT&T this week said it would let customers wishing to use AT&T's networks for Internet access choose their own ISP.
AT&T will let customers of its fixed wireless systems use the ISP of their choice for high-speed Internet access when the systems are deployed next year, according to AT&T executives. Customers of AT&T's broadband cable systems will have the same choice once technical issues are addressed and after AT&T's current exclusive contract with Excite At Home expires in mid-2002, company officials say.
AT&T outlined its commitment in a letter sent today to Federal Communications Commission Chairman William Kennard but denied that its action stems from new FCC rules that require local telephone companies to split their lines with competitors at cost.
"I'd really like to knock down the notion that there was some hidden ... threat that motivated us," says AT&T General Counsel James W. Cicconi. AT&T's decision was customer-driven, he maintains.
AT&T, in Basking Ridge, N.J., can be reached at +1-908-221-2000, or at http://www.att.com/.
RELATED LINKS
AT&T WorldNet dial-up 'Net access woes continue
Network World, 12/06/99.
Feedback
Tell us your thoughts on this article or the issues it raises.
