NextWeb adds VoIP service

California broadband wireless carrier NextWeb is adding voice over IP to its roster of enterprise broadband services through an agreement with Level 3 Communications that brings NextWeb into the fold of the wholesaler’s Level(3)Enabled Partner Program. Fremont, Calif.-based NextWeb plans to offer IP PBX solutions, including voice and related applications, to its 2000 business customers around California, as well as the 250,000 potential customers under its network coverage. The services will be based on Level 3’s (3)Tone Business platform, and will launch commercially beginning in early 2005.

"We looked at a couple of other providers, but felt that Level 3 had the best product<" said Eric Warren, director of marketing and business development. "They are very interested in fixed broadband wireless." Warren also said Level 3’s national service breadth would be important as NextWeb looks to expand outside California.

Previous to signing the agreement with Level 3, NextWeb conducted market surveys that found that more than 60% of its customers had a "strong" or "very strong" interest in buying voice service from the company. NextWeb will hold a series of market trials before the commercial launch of VoIP begins. The company expects the service to be available throughout most of its network coverage by mid-2005.