AT&T selected Ericsson to help expand its U-verse and DirecTV platforms. The evolution will use Ericsson technologies in a move to grow the overall entertainment experience for satellite and wireline customers.
“By collaborating with Ericsson, AT&T will be able to enhance its service offerings across its networks,” said Enrique Rodriguez, EVP and CTO at AT&T Entertainment and Internet Services. “Combining these technologies together uniquely positions AT&T to offer consumers an unparalleled bundled video entertainment, mobile and broadband experience.”
AT&T recently acquired DirecTV in a $48.5 billion deal. AT&T is looking to Ericsson to help take the next step to integrate the satellite TV platform and separate itself from the competition.
“AT&T has long been one of the most future-oriented, pioneering operators in the industry and we look forward to helping them to evolve their platforms which will give consumers an advanced TV experience,” explained Per Borgklint, SVP and head of business unit support solutions at Ericsson.
In August, the carrier announced it would combine DirecTV with U-verse and mobile to provide extra savings for customers. The offer included high-definition and digital video recording services for up to four TV receivers, and a four-line unlimited voice calling, text messaging and 10 gigabytes of shareable data for $200 per month. The telecom giant said the deal will save customers at least $600 in the first year compared with purchasing the services separately.
The package savings comes from combining the wireless plans, which retail for $160 per month before any per-device payment fees, a $50 per month “basic” TV plan and a $10 per month combined billing discount. The television package can also be from AT&T’s U-verse service that is available in 21 states, though the discount is only available to new DirecTV and U-verse customers.
