AT&T Mobility continues Alltel transition in Utah, N.D., S.D., Iowa and Minnesota

AT&T Mobility (T) has flipped the switch on more former Alltel Communications L.L.C. customers in parts of Utah, North Dakota, South Dakota, Iowa and Minnesota that are now being serviced through the nation’s second largest operator.
The move follows AT&T Mobility’s acquisition of Alltel wireless assets in following Verizon Wireless’ $28 billion acquisition of Alltel in 2009.
As part of the transition, AT&T Mobility said it has migrated former Alltel CDMA network infrastructure as well as rebranded local retail locations. The Minnesota transition also includes some former Unicel and Verizon Wireless customers.
Former Alltel customers in those markets have the option of receiving a new AT&T Mobility handset that is comparable to their existing device for no charge or upgrade to a new device. AT&T Mobility noted that those choosing a comparable model will likely be able to maintain their existing rate plans with no additional contract terms required. Customers will continue to be supported on their current Alltel devices until transitioned.
Customers selecting a new upgrade will be required to sign a new two-year contract and a corresponding AT&T Mobility rate plan.
AT&T Mobility has been aggressively working on the network transition since acquiring the Alltel assets.
Some of the former Alltel assets not acquired by AT&T Mobility were picked up by Atlantic Tele-Network Inc., which has relaunched service using the Alltel brand.