Licensing Step Moves WorldCom Closer To Market Launch In
First Quarter 2001
CLINTON, Miss. (Aug. 14, 2000) - WorldCom, Inc. (NASDAQ: WCOM)
is filing its first round of applications for licensing authority to
offer broadband fixed wireless services in more than 60 markets
nationwide including major cities such as Boston, Providence,
Pittsburgh and San Antonio and smaller cities including Jackson, MS,
Memphis, Buffalo and Norfolk, VA.
Today marks the opening of the Federal Communications Commission's
filing window for accepting applications for two-way services in the
fixed wireless radio band known as Multichannel Multipoint Distribution
Service (MMDS) and Instructional Television Fixed Services (ITFS).
Today's action moves WorldCom closer to fulfilling the Commission's
vision of using this spectrum for broadband services. Previously, the
spectrum had been authorized only for the delivery of one-way video
programming.
"Our applications move us one step closer to market launch," said
John Stupka, president of WorldCom Wireless Solutions. "We'll work with
the FCC and other spectrum holders to make this a speedy and smooth
licensing process."
Licensing authority is required in each of WorldCom's 160 markets
before commercial services are launched. Complete applications will be
placed on public notice for a 60-day period. If no petitions to deny
are filed, the application will automatically be deemed granted.
WorldCom will file its initial round of applications during this week's
FCC filing window. Applications for additional markets will be made
during upcoming FCC filing windows.
As part of its "generation d" initiative, WorldCom will leverage its
fixed wireless assets with other broadband technology solutions to
offer customers the best high-speed access solution to meet the
customer's needs. WorldCom's five market trials of fixed wireless
technology are on track as WorldCom prepares for a successful
commercial launch, beginning in the fourth quarter of this year and
continuing into early next year.
"We're gearing up for a broadband launch in Memphis, which will
serve as the model market for offering our customers multiple solutions
for high-speed access services," Stupka explained. "Broadband fixed
wireless gives our customers a competitive, reliable choice for
high-speed access especially in markets where few, if any, options
exist."
WorldCom (NASDAQ: WCOM) is a global leader in "all-distance"
communications services with operations in more than 65 countries.
Revenues in 1999 were $37 billion, with more than $15 billion from
high-growth data, Internet and international services. WorldCom
provides facilities-based and fully integrated services to facilitate
e-business and e-commerce in the digital generation. For more
information go to http://www.wcom.com.
