The Value AT&T and Verizon see in the 700 Megahertz Spectrum

Implications: AT&T and Verizon are aiming for wireless data services with their new frequencies Cellular voice services are not likely to be significantly affected

Analysis: One of the most attractive features of the 700 Megahertz spectrum recently auctioned off by the FCC is its ability to penetrate buildings and walls better than other commonly-used mobile wireless frequencies. While making it easier to use your cell phone in hallways and elevators might be useful, it is likely that both AT&T and Verizon have something else in mind. Today, business people and vacationers alike tote around laptop computers, and most often use WiFi "hot spots" to connect to the Internet. Both of the carriers currently offer high-speed connectivity services for laptops (AT&T calls theirs "Wireless WAN" and "Laptop Connect" while Verizon usually knows it as "Verizon Wireless Internet Access"), and both of these services reach much more territory than that covered by WiFi access points. But the catch is their penetration in to the laptop in the conference room, in the cafeteria, in the hotel room, etc. isn't very good --- and that's where the new 700 MHz frequencies come in. Watch for both Verizon and AT&T to soon announce new services aimed specifically at this market.