Cox issued a press release announcing its intentions to launch wireless service in 2009, and integrate it into their successful bundling strategy. Cox intends to resell Sprint wireless services initially, and then augment that resale effort with their own 3G services from an ongoing wireless network build out project. Cox also says they are investigating LTE for a future 4G network play. “Our commitment is firm, and the wireless services we deliver will further the Cox experience. As consumers are increasingly adopting a mobile lifestyle, we will continue to deliver in ways that are uniquely Cox – offering the first truly integrated bundle that is easy-to-use, reliable and supported by the best customer service available,” said Pat Esser, president of Cox Communications in a company statement. They also offered insight into some integrated wireless features they intend to offer, including mobileTV, remote programming of DVRs, and access to content stored on home computers.
In the announcement, Cox touted its telephony track record and suggested they intend to see similar results with wireless. “Ten years ago, only Cox, a cable company, had the flexibility to introduce simpler telephone plans to the marketplace. And now, with wireless, we have the flexibility yet again to introduce a simpler and better wireless offer, making it easy for consumers to continue to choose Cox as their trusted provider. It’s an exciting future for our customers,” said Dallas Clement, senior vice president of strategy and product management. Funny how they failed to mention their first foray into wireless – the Pivot MVNO disaster, which touted much of this same promise at its launch. Cox will tell you they learned from that mistake, and will be the better for it. Next year is setting up to be quite an interesting one from a competitive standpoint. Cable companies will begin a serious foray into wireless, hoping to match their telecom competitors head on with a broadband wireless offensive.