AT&T Wireless Sets Out to Create a More Impressive Map

Less than two weeks ago the newsroom at AT&T went crazy releasing two, three, even four times the number of stories that are typically released in a day's time. What was all the hype?  It is news of investments in specific areas throughout the country with the intention of improving the "map" that causes this #2 company so many headaches.  Pennsylvania, Delaware, NYC, Nebraska, Iowa, and Louisiana were among the states and locations given headline attention on March 4.  So, what does this mean for AT&T?  Is it enough, or too little, too late?

On one hand, with new 4G networks on the near horizon, one must wonder if this investment is wise on the part of AT&T.  While the company has received some notoriety for poor 3G service, thanks to its affiliation with Apple, the company has continued to grow its number of subscribers. On the other hand, the Los Angeles Times, over six months ago, was already reporting doom for the company if and when that exclusive right to distribute the iPhone was lost.  Given that, one must understand why AT&T would be willing to invest massive amounts of capital into revamping their network.  After all, the company reports that internet usage- no big surprise- has grown by over 5000 percent in the last three years and smartphone technology is not showing any signs of slowing.

So, is this effort worth it?  The participants at this year's SXSW are reporting that AT&T is far outperforming itself as compared to last year.  Prepared to handle even the large amount of traffic associated with the media conference and festival, the wireless company that was bashed last year for falling flat for its loyal iPhone (and other smartphone) users, has drastically improved its service- which is reported to be speedier even than the provided WiFi- and won attendants over this year.  The company now hopes to win similar reports from customers nationwide in the months and year to come.