Boston, MA 02/03/2014 (wallstreetpr) – LTE in Rural American has led to a number of entrants into Alaskan region, driving higher technology adoption and infrastructure development.
In rural regions, most of the big telecom carriers have direct or affiliated services. However there was news today of more expansions and better connectivity.
Alaska communications increase s stake in local player TekMate
Alaska Communications (NASDAQ:ALSK) reported increasing its stake in Alaska based Information technology provider, TekMate. Using TekMate’s network, Alaska Communications will now offer more services over and above its regular broadband services. It will also absorb 60 employees of TekMate, the company had reported revenues of $6.8 million at the end of December 31, 2013.
Meanwhile Verizon Wireless (NYSE:VZ) too had announced its partnership earlier with Matanuska Telephone Association (MTA).
MTA and Verizon to cover rural Alaska
Verizon Wireless (NYSE:VZ) has since June 2013 started LTE network across several parts of Alaska. By extending its physical infrastructure as well as 700 MHz Upper C block spectrum to local partners such as MTA network, the company hopes to increase its network reach into interior regions of the country. Meanwhile, MTA with over 20 LRA prospects has already 13 of them operational.
Verizon Wireless (NYSE:VZ) intends to connect Ketchikan Alaska region and already has an agreement in place with Ketchikan Public Utilities to deliver TV, Internet as well as phone services. The agreement with Verizon Wireless would now bring additional revenues to the town carrier.
Ketchikan Public Utilities is owned by town residents and the new Verizon deal is expected to allow access to over 6,000 lines in the Southeaster Alaskan region.
As the rural program for LTE last-mile services progresses, the competition in the Alaska Communications (NASDAQ:ALSK) telecom region is expected to heat up and generate higher revenues as well as improved connectivity for the region.
