Qwest today introduced its nationwide wireless voice service for residential and small business customers. For the first time, Qwest wireless customers can choose competitive national or state service plans.
Qwest's nationwide calling plans start as low as $24.99 for 200 minutes when customers combine wireless with any other Qwest service on a single bill. In addition, the company today will begin promoting the plans in television and print advertising featuring Qwest employees and customers, including hockey great Wayne Gretzky.
"Incorporating nationwide wireless calling into our Qwest Choice bundle creates one of the industry's most compelling offers for customers," said Richard C. Notebaert, Qwest chairman and CEO. "This new wireless offer is part of our larger plan to provide customers with greater choice and flexibility when it comes to selecting communications services."
All Qwest nationwide plans include the following exclusive integrated features at no extra charge for customers who have a Qwest home or office phone:
- Bundle Discounts -- Customers receive a monthly discount on national wireless price plans when they also have a home phone package, which includes a phone line and popular features (such as caller ID and voice mail), all available on one bill from Qwest.
- Free Long-Distance -- Customers who sign up for a qualifying wireless plan will receive free long-distance on evenings and weekends on their home or office phone (must have Qwest Long Distance service to be eligible). This free service lets customers enjoy the convenience of their wireline phone combined with the great savings of their wireless plan.
- One Number Service -- Customers can automatically have their home or office calls routed directly to their wireless phone -- so they can stay connected even when they are on the go.
- Voice Mail Link -- A simple way for customers to integrate their wireless phone with their home or office voice mail. With Voice Mail Link, any call not answered on a customer's Qwest Wireless phone is directed to the home or office voice mail box, and a message notification is sent to both the home (or office) phone and the wireless phone.
Qwest's existing wireless data services, including two-way text-messaging, are available now as part of any new plan. New advanced data services, including picture phone capabilities and downloadable ring-tones and games, will be introduced beginning in early April.
Beginning this month, current Qwest customers will be contacted regarding their service transition to the new plans. Most will have the option of transferring to a comparable plan with new national coverage. If customers wish to sign up for a national plan prior to their transition date, they may contact a Qwest customer service center. Current wireless customers in Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wyoming will remain on existing Qwest wireless plans until later this year.
"Qwest has taken a meticulous approach to bring this new national offering to customers," said Roger Entner, program director for the wireless/mobile services practice at The Yankee Group. "By focusing on a smooth transition, and continuing to deliver on their service commitments, Qwest has the opportunity to bring a new standard of wireless choice to customers in their region."