We’ve been hearing a lot about AT&T not reinvesting its profits from data usage in its infrastructure, especially since operation Chokehold. Well AT&T, which seems very on top of everything online lately, just answered the iPhone blog on the issue.
Not only does AT&T deny the accusations but claims to be doing quite the opposite. They would have invested increasingly (around $17 billion in 2009) in their wireless network but we simply can’t tell from their Capex because they lowered their investments in other areas. I’m afraid however that iPhone users don’t really care whether they invest or not, all people want is a reliable network.
Another effort undertaken by AT&T would be the deployment of the “high-quality 850 MHz spectrum” which would improve the capacity and in-building reception. They added about 2,000 new cell site and a 100,000 backhaul connections in 2009.
Furthermore they are working intensively on Wi-Fi with over 20,000 hotspots in all 50 states. They are rolling out HSPA 7.2 as we speak and will be launching the next generation of networks, LTE, in 2011.
Those are some strong points, glad to see some good PR for once, right? Or do you just hate them?
Hey AT&T, here’s a thought. How about offering up some of those NEW 3G FEMTO CELLS?! The deal would be: Buy an iPhone (or any high-end smart phone for that matter) and get a FEMTO Cell for $1 (yes, one dollar) provided the customer adds an additional year to the contract.
1) It would save the customer money.
2) Give the customer full bars indoors.
3) Ease the burden on the network.
4) And you get a 3 year contract instead of 2.
How about that, “4 Birds with 1 Stone”!
PS Another thought would be to get your “Pals” at Apple to re-brand those Cisco Femtos (and offer the deal through Apple and AT&T stores) especially if you are worried about the “appearance” of the idea outlined above. Really, who needs more negative ad aggro from “Ivan the Terrible” and the “V” dweebs. Just sayin…
Good stuff right? So, SLAP IT HIGH!! Oh, and a little something in the Paycheck would be good too ;^)…
I, for one, seem to have benefited in the last year from some AT&T re-investment. I have lived 3 miles from 3G coverage for nearly 2 years and within the last six months, AT&T expanded 3G throughout my county. Finally I can sit with my Sprint buddy and surf as fast as he could.