SouthernLINC secures PTT, data roaming deal; unveils new rate plans

Regional wireless player SouthernLINC Wireless said it has signed a nationwide push-to-talk and data roaming agreement with a “nationwide” operator that will allow its customers to use their PTT and mobile data services when outside of SouthernLINC’s current iDEN coverage area.
While the operator was not named by SouthernLINC, it’s believed to be Sprint Nextel Corp. (S) as that is the only operator with a nationwide iDEN footprint. SouthernLINC had previously signed a cellular roaming agreement in 2001 that has allowed the carrier to offer nationwide voice services since 2002.
SouthernLINC’s home coverage area includes portions of Alabama, Georgia, Florida and Mississippi. SouthernLINC has for years been trying to secure roaming agreements to provide nationwide coverage for customers
“I am proud to say that after many years of hard work and effort, SouthernLINC Wireless has reached an agreement with a major U.S. carrier to provide nationwide push to talk and data services to our customers,” said Bob Dawson, president and CEO of SouthernLINC Wireless. “This is major milestone in the history of SouthernLINC Wireless.”
In connection with the roaming agreement, SouthernLINC also rolled out new rate plans dubbed “So Easy” that include nationwide PTT, cellular voice, data and messaging. The six new plans encompass both individual and shared lines and provide a price break depending on the number of lines selected. Individual lines begin at $29 per month for unlimited PTT and incoming text messages; and range up to $79 per month for unlimited access to all services.
The Federal Communications Commission this week is expected to vote on mandating data roaming agreements, which has been a pet project of the Rural Cellular Association and rural operators.