It would be a mistake for T to attempt to buy ATHM. They won't do that and they don't need to. Why bother? How about cut a deal with ATHM to provide access, funds for continued build-out, subscribers to be uploaded to ATHM system, RDC and loop technical 7/24 support, @Work deployment and technical support. You divide out the risk but get the services and cash flow with cable market presence.
T could always buy TCI, but with copper r.o.w., who needs them? Outrageous, absurd? T could do it, because they got the Moxie and they got the resources.Just replace the telephone wires with HFC. Bye-Bye tv Malone. Cable modem is too big for CATV. It will take several years to pull it off if only the public doesn't know about cable modem. THe RBOCs will align themselves or buy Cox, Rogers, TWX,etc.
Why is it a lock? With cable modem the enablement of telephone is completely altered. RBOCs have to do something to get rid of this antiquated copper jungle that has reached its senility. They might as well rewire with HFC and support the system that will bring it into fruition, ATHM's. |
