Verizon Wireless apes Alltel’s MyCircle with new small businesses calling plan

Verizon Wireless appears to have been inspired by the company it is currently working to acquire.
Just days after the carrier proposed purchasing Alltel Communications L.L.C for almost $30 billion, Verizon Wireless announced a new plan that bears a striking resemblance to Alltel’s MyCircle plan. Designed for small-business customers, the new plan allows unlimited calling between a Verizon Wireless number and up to five wireline numbers at $5 per line.
However, the new plan is only available to subscribers with Verizon Freedom for Business unlimited long-distance service. Calls made from a Verizon Wireless cellphone to these five lines will not count against the business customer’s wireless minutes.
“Taking advantage of this total calling solution helps our customers save money and increase productivity, no matter where their daily business takes them,” said David Frendo, director of small-business products for Verizon Wireless.
Alltel introduced its MyCircle calling service several years ago, which allows customers to select a handful of numbers to make unlimited calls to. Several other carriers, including T-Mobile USA Inc., offer similar services.
Verizon Wireless’ announcement is just the latest in a long string of pricing tweaks by major carriers. T-Mobile USA recently announced a price-saving change to its competitive family plan, and AT&T Mobility and Verizon Wireless targeted small businesses and texters, respectively, with recent new plans.