AT&T Answers the Need for Speed in Reading

AT&T Inc. (NYSE: T) today announced the expansion of the third generation (3G) mobile broadband wireless network in Reading. With the network's faster data speeds, customers now have more options in how, when and where they can access the Internet, use e-mail or view a variety of entertainment services.

With the addition of 3G technology to more than 20 cell sites, AT&T's 3G network is now available throughout Reading and along Routes 422 and 222.

"We're staying on top of the demand for fast, dependable wireless broadband access to feature-rich Internet content such as streaming video," said Dan Lafond, vice president and general manager for AT&T's wireless unit in eastern Pennsylvania. "Our goal is to ensure that AT&T customers have the very best wireless experience possible -- which means unmatched coverage, capabilities and quality of service."

Since 2005, AT&T has invested more than $550 million in Pennsylvania. This year AT&T plans to spend more than $60 million across the state to enhance coverage, capacity and grow the 3G network.

AT&T's 3G network provides the simultaneous delivery of voice and data -- a capability not offered by all wireless providers. With a compatible 3G device, consumers can view razor-sharp clips through CV, an on-demand streaming video service, and can quickly download games, pictures and the latest music, entertainment, news and weather through MEdia Net, the company's mobile Internet portal. Customers can also enjoy full-length television content and sporting events with AT&T's Mobile TV with FLO(TM) service -- now available in 58 markets including Philadelphia.

Mobile business users can increase productivity and access the Internet with faster data speeds from the combination of AT&T's 3G network and LaptopConnect -- which simply requires a LaptopConnect card or a laptop with embedded 3G service, software and an AT&T data plan.

AT&T uses HSDPA/UMTS (High Speed Downlink Packet Access/Universal Mobile Telephone System) technology based on the GSM (Global Systems for Mobile Communications) standard; the most widely used wireless technology in the world. AT&T has deployed 3G network in more than 275 markets, with plans to deliver 3G service to nearly 350 markets by the end of the year.

Customers who use a GSM phone, such as those offered by AT&T, can take their device with them when they travel abroad and benefit from worldwide access enabled by the GSM standard. AT&T subscribers have the ability to browse the Web and perform other data functions in more than 145 countries, and they can make a phone call in 200 countries and territories or on 75 cruise ships worldwide.

AT&T Inc. (NYSE: T) is a premier communications holding company. Its subsidiaries and affiliates, AT&T operating companies, are the providers of AT&T services in the United States and around the world. Among their offerings are the world's most advanced IP-based business communications services and the nation's leading wireless, high speed Internet access and voice services. In domestic markets, AT&T is known for the directory publishing and advertising sales leadership of its Yellow Pages and YELLOWPAGES.COM organizations, and the AT&T brand is licensed to innovators in such fields as communications equipment. As part of its three-screen integration strategy, AT&T is expanding its TV entertainment offerings. In 2008, AT&T again ranked No. 1 on Fortune magazine's World's Most Admired Telecommunications Company list and No. 1 on America's Most Admired Telecommunications Company list.

Source: AT&T