Three months after selling its under-performing wireless subsidiary, AT&T has reached a deal to offer AT&T-branded wireless service through Sprint. As a result of the 5-year agreement, AT&T will expand wireless services it is currently testing in select U.S. markets with hopes of a launch later this year. In doing so, it"s betting on its brand name, expressing confidence that wireless consumers awash with choices will pick "the most trusted name in communications."
Jettisoning AT&T Wireless was a sound dollar and cents decision, but it left the Bedminster, N.J.-based, carrier with a hole in its bundled offerings -- a key element of its strategy to attract and keep consumer and small and medium business subscribers. AT&T expects to add wireless service to its local and long-distance calling packages. In addition, AT&T plans to offer handsets that also allow customers to make VoIP calls over Wi-Fi connections in homes and businesses.