AT&T Wireless "Notes"-Enables PocketNet Service

AT&T Wireless Services announced the expansion of its wireless PocketNet service to include access to Lotus Notes networks.

Through an agreement with Lotus Development Corp., AT&T will enable PocketNet subscribers to access e-mail, contact information, and calendar utilities hosted on a Notes network.

AT&T reported it is working with other third-party vendors to extend the PocketNet service to include access to other Notes-based applications, including transportation, distribution, sales, and workgroup collaboration.

The Notes-enabled PocketNet service is being demonstrated this week at the annual Lotusphere show taking place in Orlando.

The PocketNet cellular phone is manufactured by Mitsubishi and Samsung for a price of $299. The service is available on a flat-fee basis, varying according to market.

In related news, AT&T Wireless reported it is joining with TeleCorp, Inc. to develop a digital wireless network across the Midwest, the South, and New England.

Arlington, VA-based TeleCorp will operate the service and promote it as being in affiliation with AT&T Wireless Services, providing 11.3 million people in TeleCorp's licensed areas with access to the AT&T Digital PCS network.

"We plan to add additional coverage in existing AT&T Wireless markets in 1998 so that customers will have more places to call or connect to our digital network," said Dan Hesse, president and chief executive officer of AT&T Wireless.