Sprint, Cable Firms Testing Cell Service

After announcing an initiative to work with Sprint on ways to combine cellular service with cable television offerings, several of the cable companies involved have begun to disclose their testing plans. Sprint's 20-year deal, which is exclusive for three years, was announced in November of last year.

The agreement calls for more than a simple reselling of Sprint's cellular service. Instead, the companies plan to integrate the cable television experience into that of the cell phone. Together, this would allow customers to watch and schedule DVR programming remotely, as well as provide other potential services.

While features like this would initially not be part of the test, the providers do plan to allow for basic access to cable content, and permit users to access their e-mail accounts from the cable company's broadband Internet services.

The same tie-in would apply for users of the cable company's voice services. Unlimited free calling would be provided between the two services, and wireless and home voicemail boxes could be accessed from either phone.

All tests would begin this summer. Comcast plans to trial the solution in Portland, Ore., and in an as yet unnamed Massachusetts city, while Time Warner would test in Austin, Texas and Raleigh. The other two companies in the agreement, Cox and Advance/Newhouse, have yet to specify which cities would be included in their tests.

Pricing was not announced, but widespread availability is expected next year.