Qwest's Bold VOIP Push
If you can't beat 'em, join 'em. That's Qwest's
Beginning in early December, the Baby Bell will test the service in Minnesota, where a judge effectively exempted VOIP providers from taxes levied on telecoms and ultimately passed along to consumers.
"We are becoming one of them," Qwest CEO Dick Notebaert said during a conference call this morning. "Entry into VOIP might be the opportunity to break up the massive regulatory logjam and provide a service customers want."
To make the transition, Qwest signed a deal with Lucent
Qwest will integrate Lucent's technology into its existing local network. Following lab and field trials, Qwest plans to deploy the new intelligent media gateway that will eventually connect existing customers to VOIP networks.
Besides Murray Hill, N.J.-based Lucent, Cisco
Unregulated VOIP has the potential to change the communications landscape and carriers are weighing its costs and benefits, especially after the Minnesota decision.
And it's not just telecoms. Cable companies Time Warner and Comcast are currently in trials for VOIP, looking for an edge.
Also, independent players including Vonage and Net2Phone are battling with state regulators in California and elsewhere to ensure that VOIP remains unregulated. Earlier this week, Net2Phone announced a tentative deal to provide Cebridge Connections, a St. Louis-based cable operator, with cable voice services.
new outlook on voice over Internet protocol
to replace older technology, consolidate end-office and prepare its infrastructure for VOIP. Terms of the three-year contract, which includes switches, gateways, software and services, are private.
and other large equipment vendors are making a push to manufacture and market VOIP gear.