Embarq Bridges Wire to Wireless Calls

Embarq, self-described as the fifth largest local communications company in the country, has introduced its Smart Connect service, an innovative technology that allows calls to move seamlessly between a wireless and wireline networks -- all without interrupting the call.

Embarq began its tiered rollout of this new technology by launching in Las Vegas, Orlando and Charlottesville, Va.


The general capability can be enhanced further with the Embarq Smart Connect Plus which enables calls to automatically move between the Embarq wireless network and the on-premise Wi-Fi network, whichever is strongest, without manual transfer of the call. This enables organizations to be more accessible to their customers and colleagues, helping to reduce wireless costs, and improve coverage and call quality. This smart network connection will help minimize dropped calls, allow for better management of wireless charges and provide efficient integration of mobile workers.

"When you realize that up to 50 percent of wireless minutes are conducted from inside your business (Pyramid Research, 2005), the innovative nature of Embarq Smart Connect and the potential value that the technology delivers becomes clear," said Tom McEvoy, president, Business Markets. "The ability to move a call from your wireless network to your office network, and vice versa, can reduce the amount of more expensive wireless minutes you use while in the office. A reduction in usage translates to a lower wireless bill and savings for your business while helping to increase the mobility and productivity of your employees while on premise -- and it's all made possible with a simple push of a button on your wireless phone."

Embarq Smart Connect, which will work with any wireless device and network service provider, allows businesses to move calls between their wireless and wireline networks at the push of a button without interrupting the call.

Embarq Smart Connect Plus employs the Starcom Pocket PC 6700 phone allowing automatic moves between Wi-Fi and wireless networks. The technology was developed in conjunction with NewStep Networks, which specializes in fixed-mobile convergence (FMC), the merger of wireless and wireline devices.

Following its initial three-market introduction, Embarq Smart Connect has also debuted in Fayetteville, N.C., Mansfield, Ohio and Ft. Myers, Fla.