Verizon Wireless Open in Former Alltel Markets

Customers to Benefit from Enhanced Network Coverage and Broadband Data Speeds, Access to Touch Screen BlackBerry Tour and Latest Devices

July 21, 2009 – Verizon Wireless, the leading wireless company with the most reliable voice and data network, including the nation's largest wireless 3G broadband network, announced today the completion of the South Area Alltel integration.

Verizon Wireless completed its purchase of Alltel in January and has spent the past six months integrating networks, preparing to convert billing systems, upgrading high-speed wireless broadband service, and re-merchandising stores across North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee.

Former Alltel customers in markets to be retained by Verizon Wireless throughout the South now have access to Verizon Wireless' leading lineup of devices and data services, and may visit Verizon Wireless stores across the country for sales and service. In addition, customers will enjoy:

• Service on the nation's most reliable voice and data network, supported by a Can You Hear Me Now? team of real-life test men and women driving the local roads to test network performance and determine areas for improvements.
• Faster speeds when accessing the Internet, email and corporate data as a result of upgrading the existing EV-DO network to Rev.A technology.
• Best-in-class devices including the BlackBerry Storm, Tour and other global smartphones; MiFi 2200 Intelligent Mobile Hotspot, HP 1151NR netbooks, and many more, all backed by the nation's largest most reliable nationwide voice and data network.
• High-value services, such as Friends and Family (formerly My Circle), which offers customers unlimited voice calling to and from up to 10 numbers, including landlines; as well as other services like Push-To-Talk, V CAST and V CAST Music with Rhapsody.
• An expanded network of retail stores, including re-branded Alltel locations in the South as well as existing Verizon Wireless stores.
• Service provided by employees trained to sell the latest products and services, and provide the best customer service for continued customer loyalty. Verizon Wireless has the highest customer loyalty in the industry.

As part of the integration, Verizon Wireless also is launching its HopeLine Phone Recycling Program in former Alltel markets. Through the program, individuals can provide assistance to domestic violence victims, and agencies that help them, by donating no longer used wireless phones and accessories to be refurbished, recycled or sold. The proceeds benefit victims of domestic violence through agency grants and the donation of wireless phones and service.

"The bringing together of two great companies was carefully planned and executed with a goal to provide customers with the best that both Alltel and Verizon Wireless had to offer," said Jerry Fountain, Regional President for Verizon Wireless. "We provide an outstanding value in wireless, offering the best network, best products and services and best customer service in the industry."

For more information on Verizon Wireless products and services, or to find a Verizon Wireless Communications Store near you, go to www.verizonwireless.com

SOURCE Verizon Wireless