It looks like Cox Cable is going to become a regional CDMA operator.
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Cox’s Wireless Plans Taking Shape
Om Malik, Monday, May 5, 2008 at 12:55 AM PT Comments (0) Related Stories
Paul Allen, Long-Time Wireless Fan
Powered by Sphere Cox Communications is one cable company that is wasting no time and embracing wireless. Cox’s wireless subsidiary, Cox Wireless spent around $304 million and snatched up 14 Block A and eight Block B licenses, as part of the recently concluded 700 spectrum auctions. Now, there is word that the company has given the contract to build the network to Chinese equipment maker, Huawei. UBS Research in a note to its clients notes that, Huawei is going to supply CDMA gear for a wireless network.
“Huawei won over the likes of Alcatel-Lucent and Nortel. Although we estimate this business at <$100M/yr, we note that it marks a key stepping stone as Huawei looks to gain traction in North America,” UBS Research notes. Cox spokesperson declined comment, when I reached out to them. According to Cable Digital News analysts believe that Cox could use the wireless spectrum to build a wireless broadband network. Huawei is making gear that works on CDMA and LTE networks.
Other cable companies that won slices of 700 MHz spectrum include Vulcan Spectrum, an entity controlled by Paul Allen who also owns Charter Communications. Bend Broadband of Oregon also snagged a Block B license. Comcast, Time Warner Cable & Brighthouse Networks are rumored to be exploring WiMAX venture with Sprint and Clearwire. Comcast recently hired Dave Williams, former CTO of O2 to head-up its Comcast Wireless, indicating that finally they are serious about wireless. A recent survey from Compete and Fierce Wireless shows that consumers will happily buy wireless service if offered as a from a wireline carrier or a cable provider.
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Here is a list of the regions that Cox won in the auction.
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