Cox Communications outlines wireless services launch

Cox Communications, the third largest cable operator in the U.S., announced it will introduce wireless voice and data services in the second half of 2009. The addition of mobile services will enable Cox to bundle a quadruple-play offering featuring its existing cable, Internet and wireline services--Cox will introduce its wireless effort via Sprint's nationwide network, although the firm will also build out its own 3G network for additional market launches. In addition, Cox said it will test LTE-based 4G services. The company has already invested more than $500 million to acquire spectrum and develop wireless infrastructure (including more than $304 million for 22 licenses during the FCC's recent 700 MHz auction) and promised to manage all aspects of the new mobile service, among them product development, marketing and sales, back-office operations and customer support and billing.

According to Cox, its research suggests consumers desire simple and easy-to-use wireless services that integrate with their lifestyles. To that end, the firm said its core strategy hinges on management and delivery of converged content, stating subscribers will be able to access television favorites, program their DVR and access content saved on their home PC via mobile handset. In August, Cox president Patrick Esser confirmed a wireless service was in the planning stages: "We'll focus on providing simple calling plans, integrating all our services into one device with a consistent cross-platform interface, and making our content and applications mobile," he said.

For more on Cox's wireless outlook:
- read this release