Solution to be tested with business customers in Seattle
SEATTLE, November 9, 2004 - Speakeasy (www.speakeasy.net), the nation's largest independent broadband services provider, announced today at the Wireless Connectivity (WiCon) Americas conference in Santa Clara, California (www.wiconamericas.com) it will begin testing its new Broadband Wireless Access (WiMax) service in metro Seattle, which will include testing coverage, customer demand and related broadband business applications. Speakeasy subscribers will be able to access the far-reaching broadband network from practically any point within the test area primarily the Seattle downtown core that encompasses the Belltown, Pioneer Square, Lower Queen Anne and Lake Union neighborhoods. Speakeasy estimates its WiMax Seattle service could potentially reach thousands of businesses. Seattle was selected as the test city due to its challenging geography and intense business demand for broadband services.
Speakeasy's WiMax service will allow simultaneous use of Voice Over Internet Protocol (VOIP) and broadband data services, using its unique network differentiator Voice Quality (VQ) Technology, which prioritizes voice over data traffic. WiMax is an industry standard for wireless communications that has the potential to expand broadband from the current WiFi range of 300 feet to up to 30 miles. Approximately 18 million people are forecasted to be using WiMax by 2008 (source: Visant Strategies), and the service allows Speakeasy to deploy a cost-effective wireless solution to a broader geographic footprint and customer base. The service will initially offer speeds of 3.0 Mbps (download and upload) and will include a service level agreement (SLA) for mission critical business applications, along with a dedicated business account manager, which is standard for all business customers.
"Speakeasy's test of WiMax in Seattle is truly groundbreaking and we are thrilled to introduce a new era of broadband access to the region," said Speakeasy CEO and President Bruce Chatterley. "Whether it's WiMax, VOIP or OneLink DSL (a.k.a. dedicated or naked DSL), Speakeasy continues to be at the forefront in promoting progressive usage of broadband services. This service is ideal for business customers looking for high performance, quick installation and first access to a compelling technology."
In August 2004, Speakeasy received a strategic investment from the Intel Communications Fund, managed by Intel Capital, to help expand network endeavors related to this new wireless technology.
Seattle business customers interested in being at the forefront of wireless services are welcome to contact Speakeasy sales for further information.
About Speakeasy
Speakeasy is a member of the WiMax Forum, an industry-led, non-profit corporation formed to promote and certify compatibility and interoperability of broadband wireless products. Offering business and residential broadband solutions, Speakeasy provides a wide range of services for the business, gaming and "power user" segments of the market. Combining a nationwide network and intelligent customer service along with pioneering technologies and product offerings, Speakeasy delivers a superior online experience for demanding broadband users. Founded in 1994, Speakeasy achieved profitability and passed the $50 million mark in recurring revenues during 2003. Speakeasy broadband is available in most metropolitan areas within the 48 contiguous states. Those interested in Speakeasy¹s broadband service can visit www.speakeasy.net or call customer service at 1.800.556.5829 (24 hours a day, seven days a week).
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Media Contact:
Sandra Thomas
206-971-5106
