Verizon integrated phone cuts cordless limitations

Verizon Avenue has introduced a prototype hybrid cordless/cellular phone for customers in multi-dwelling units that will operate as a cordless within individual homes, but as a cellular voice and data device outside and in MDU-common areas.

The carrier is testing the new Verizon ONE device, developed under a partnership announced late last year with CDMA wireless local loop vendor Axesstel, in Chicago and other markets in advance of a commercial roll-out planned for early next year. The Verizon ONE phone is capable of supporting typical wireline calling features such as Caller ID and voice mail.

The Verizon ONE device was announced at the National Apartment Association conference by Andrea Custis, president and COO at Verizon Avenue, the subsidiary of Verizon which sells bundled local, long-distance and Internet access strictly to MDU customers.

Custis also said at the meeting that Verizon Avenue is planning a new bundled service plan for MDUs which will include, among other features, free Wi-Fi access in MDU-common areas such as lobbies, pool areas or managers' offices. The new offering, planned for availability on Oct. 1, will include high-speed Internet access, lower rates for the purchase of long-term bundle contracts, access on up to six free Wi-Fi common area hot spots, six e-mail addresses and 20 Mb of online storage.