Information

Frequently Asked Questions about Alltel and AT&T

    Newest update: AT&T service expect by the end of Q1 2011.
    According to the SD PUC, AT&T has stated they are still planning a February/March time frame for network cut over. They plan to have AT&T up and running in South Dakota by the End of March 2011. This is according to a statement by a member of the SD PUC on Feb 3, 2011.

    What happened? When and how did the sale of Alltel take place?
  • Verizon purchased Alltel and is in the process of selling the South Dakota portion to AT&T.

    Verizon Wireless announced its plan to purchase Alltel in June of 2008. Due to federal laws promoting competition in wireless markets, Verizon Wireless was required to sell certain properties as a condition of its purchase. Because of this, Verizon Wireless sought to sell all Alltel assets the company held in the entire state of South Dakota. On May 8, 2009, AT&T announced an agreement to purchase various Verizon Wireless assets across 18 states, including the Alltel assets in South Dakota. Since the FCC approved the sale on June 22, 2010, Alltel customers in South Dakota will now become AT&T customers. Verizon customers will remain Verizon customers and are unaffected by either of these transactions.

  • What has to occur before the sale between Verizon and AT&T can be finalized?
    Verizon must get the approval of the federal government.

    The Federal Communications Commission approved the transaction on June 22, 2010. AT&T expects to begin providing service in South Dakota in the first quarter of 2011.

  • Do Alltel and AT&T use different technologies to provide service?
    Yes.

    Alltel typically uses CDMA (Code Division Multiple Access) technology. AT&T uses GSM/UMTS 3G technology (Global System for Mobile communication/Universal Mobile Telecommunications System). Upon obtaining the necessary approvals and closing the transaction, AT&T will begin installing its equipment in the areas being acquired. As the network conversion progresses, AT&T anticipates updating its customers regarding the availability of AT&T service in their area.

  • Will I have to pick a new cell phone provider?
    No.

    Current Alltel customers will not be required to select a new wireless provider if they do not wish to. If this purchase is approved, all Alltel customers in South Dakota will become AT&T customers. South Dakota Verizon customers will remain Verizon customers and are unaffected by either of these transactions.

  • Will the costs of my service change?
    It's possible.

    Former Alltel customers may continue wireless service under their existing Alltel contract terms for up to 12 months after the transaction closes. However, customers may convert to an AT&T rate plan and device as soon as AT&T's 3G network is available in their area. Alltel customers are advised to check the terms of their current contract. Switching to AT&T before the corporate transaction is complete may result in early termination fees.

  • Will my coverage be affected?
    It's possible, but not for at least a year.


    AT&T is purchasing not only the Alltel subscribers, but also the Alltel network in South Dakota. The wireless towers that serve you today are likely to serve you when the transaction closes. The existing Alltel technologies will remain in place for up to 12 months. AT&T representatives have stated their 3G network will provide similar, if not better, coverage.

  • Will I need to change my cell number?
    No.

    Former Alltel customers will not need to change their telephone number due to the transaction.

  • Will I need a different phone?
    Not at first, but after 12-18 months you probably will.


    Former Alltel customers will be able to use their existing handset for up to 12 months after the anticipated sale's completion. These customers may sign up for any AT&T special promotions in effect during that time. By the end of the 12-month period, former Alltel customers will need to change to a device that is compatible with the new AT&T network.

  • Can I get an iPhone?
    Eventually.


    As soon as AT&T has deployed its new 3G network in South Dakota, customers will have access to many devices in the industry, including the iPhone.


Current Alltel and AT&T Google News Items

  • alltel at&t - Google News

    USA TODAY
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    FierceWireless
    Despite the strong smartphone sales, the company's service margins rebounded to 41.6 percent, which the company attributed to improved churn as well as reduced spending and the lingering impact of the integration of former Alltel and Centennial ...
    AT&T Adds 4.3M iPhones, Outpacing VerizonWireless Week
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