RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, N.C.-Ericsson Inc. announced it will provide AT&T Wireless Services Inc. with digital wireless phones. The agreement, which is the largest Ericsson has ever signed with any single U.S. customer for wireless phones, is valued at more than $300 million.
Ericsson said it will deliver AT&T Digital PCS and other cellular phones beginning in January. AT&T is purchasing Ericsson dual-mode handsets, including 800 MHz and 1900 MHz, dual-band phones and Time Division Multiple Access single-band phones for its Digital PCS cellular customers, said Ericsson. The agreement also includes the new Ericsson AF 738 analog cellular personal telephone, as well as other analog products.
“This announcement is a further testament to the breadth and depth of our relationship with AT&T Wireless Services Inc.,” said Bo Hedfors, president and chief executive officer of Ericsson. “AT&T is changing the landscape of wireless communications with its nationwide seamless delivery of advanced services.”
AT&T Wireless launched digital cellular service last month in 40 major markets, blurring the distinction between cellular and personal communications services by calling it Digital PCS. The company is using Interim Standard 136 TDMA technology.
