Stung by AT&T;’s Internet Offer, MCI Returns Fire
- Share via
NEW YORK — MCI Communications Corp. on Monday launched an aggressive pitch for its consumer Internet access service after being stung by the interest AT&T; Corp. has generated for its new connection to the global data network.
Although MCI has offered Internet access to consumers for more than a year, it has barely promoted it, and analysts believe MCI has signed up fewer than 50,000 customers at home.
“MCI has let itself be cast in the role of reacting to AT&T; even though they’ve been ahead for a number of months,” said Adam Schoenfeld, analyst at Jupiter Communications. “It’s really a mystery as to why they haven’t been aggressive on marketing.”
MCI said it has 2 million Internet subscribers, chiefly through services it runs for universities and businesses.
MCI will match AT&T;’s offer of five hours of free Internet time a month to people who use its long-distance service. MCI also plans to continue offering unlimited access for $19.95 per month. AT&T; is charging the same price.
MCI shares closed up 87.5 cents at $29 on Nasdaq; AT&T; rose 50 cents to $61.875 on the NYSE.
Inside the business of entertainment
The Wide Shot brings you news, analysis and insights on everything from streaming wars to production — and what it all means for the future.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.
