A “hip-pocket receptionist” is how Bell Atlantic Mobile describes its new ContactLine II service, a personal communications cellular device that allows customers to receive calls however, whenever and wherever they choose.
People calling a ContactLine II customer can dial one number that is routed to the customer through BAM’s new SmartReach Personal Access Service – using the company’s advanced intelligent network -whether at home, in the office or driving, using a landline or wireless phone.
BAM conducted nearly two years of research in conjunction with Carnegie Mellon University that “shows that most consumers like the idea of ‘anytime, anywhere’ accessibility, but they want to be able to control it,” said Dennis Strigl, BAM president and chief executive officer.
The service not only allows customers to be reached whenever and wherever, but enables them to become inaccessible, diverting calls to their home or office answering machines or a voice-mail box.
ContactLine II customers will be assigned one new phone number and receive smart boxes, small registration devices, for each location where they want to be reached. The smart box plugs between the phone and outlet, like an answering machine.
The PCS Sidekick, the most technologically advanced option, includes a chain that automatically signals the customer’s smart box when the customer is within 100 feet. The equipment for the smart box options ranges from about $170 to $370.
The product is expected to be particularly useful to professionals and small business entrepreneurs including doctors, lawyers, contractors, plumbers, electricians and real estate agents, whose activities require a high level of responsiveness to their clients and customers.
ContactLine II customers in central and northern New Jersey will pay $14.95 per month for access and a ContactLine number, not including cellular service, airtime and landline charges. Service in other markets is scheduled to begin next year.
BAM also recently introduced PCS Now, which offers personal communications services over the cellular network for people who don’t roam beyond city limits.
