America Online and Compaq Expand Alliance to Equip Consumers for DSL Broadband Internet Access
June 16, 1999 11:42 AM
DULLES, Va.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--June 16, 1999--
New Compaq Presario Internet PCs to Feature AOL and DSL-Ready Modems
America Online, Inc. AOL , the world's leading interactive services company, today announced an expanded alliance with Compaq Computer Corporation, the largest global supplier of personal computers, to make it easy and convenient for consumers to go online via DSL broadband connectivity.
Under the agreement, new Compaq Presario Internet PCs will be equipped with DSL-ready modems and will prominently feature pre-installed AOL software which will include special programming and features for broadband users. This alliance will give consumers living in DSL-equipped areas a fast and convenient way to access AOL at up to 50 times faster than with a standard 28.8 modem.
Earlier this year, AOL announced agreements with Bell Atlantic and SBC to offer high speed DSL service in 21 states beginning this summer. The agreement with Compaq will enable owners of the next generation of Compaq PCs to easily access broadband, without additional equipment, wiring or phone jacks.
Some of the other benefits of connecting to AOL via DSL include "instant on" availability of the AOL service, eliminating the need to dial in each time a member signs-on; broadband-enhanced multimedia and other services; and enabling members to use their computer and telephone or fax simultaneously on a single telephone line, lessening the need for additional lines.
The new Presario Internet PCs will offer the ability to access AOL through broadband and narrow band connectivity, depending on the access available to each member.
For those members not accessing AOL through broadband connections or for members accessing their AOL account from locations other than their home, AOL offers the world's largest dial-up network, giving members unparalleled access to their account from wherever they may be.
Bob Pittman, President and COO of America Online, said: "As more consumers purchase computers primarily to go online, we want to ensure that we're providing a range of features for all types of members. Through close alliances like this one with Compaq, AOL will continue to meet the needs and interests of all online consumers, including those interested in broadband."
"Since Compaq entered the consumer PC market nearly six years ago, we have continued to redefine this industry, offering home PC buyers the best combination of value, innovation and performance," said Michael Larson, Senior Vice President and Group General Manager, Consumer Products Group, Compaq Computer Corporation.
"Today we extend that leadership by offering a completely new line of Presario Internet PC products that offer consumers the best possible Internet experience. Whether connecting, surfing, or shopping on the Net, Compaq provides consumers with a complete 'one-stop' computing solution."
About America Online
Founded in 1985, America Online, Inc., based in Dulles, Virginia, is the world's leader in interactive services, Web brands, Internet technologies, and e-commerce services.
America Online, Inc. operates: two worldwide Internet services, America Online, with more than 17 million members, and CompuServe, with approximately 2 million members; several leading Internet brands including ICQ, AOL Instant Messenger and Digital City, Inc.; the Netscape Netcenter and AOL.COM portals; the Netscape Navigator and Communicator browsers; and AOL MovieFone, the nation's No. 1 movie listing guide and ticketing service. Through its strategic alliance with Sun Microsystems, the Company develops and offers easy-to-deploy, end-to-end e-commerce and enterprise solutions for companies operating in the Net Economy.
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