Alltel gives their customers love

Alltel announced that they will be adding a texting element to their MyCircle plan today. RCR Wireless explains that the announcement comes directly after they revealed their plans to expand and speed up its network. The plan will allow customers to send 400 text messages to any number of people and unlimited texts to the chosen ones in their “Circle” for an extra $8 a month. Or for an extra $13, customers can send 1,000 texts and for $20 they can score unlimited texting to any number.

This may not seem like a big deal, but many questions are forming as to why Alltel is actually doing any of this due to the fact that Verizon announced their acquisition plans of the carrier a few weeks ago. Alltel’s CEO has said that it’s “business as usual” and we have “a responsibility to our customers” and that as of now “Verizon is still a competitor”.

I found it refreshing to hear that Alltel was actually thinking of their customers and wanted to continue to improve their brand even though they are on their way out. Who knows, maybe I am just a softy. Regardless, looks like Alltel customers will still feel the love for now…

Verizon Wireless Considering Alltel Purchase?

Wow. According to CNBC, Verizon Wireless is considering purchasing Alltel, according to unnamed sources. So the second-largest wireless carrier may buy the fifth-largest to create the first-largest?

CNBC takes an intelligent look at the potential deal with a degree of insight, which suggests this is more than a crazy rumor. While this may be a good deal for Alltel owners TPG and Goldman Sachs Capital Partners, as mocoNews points out, this is less good for other parts of the wireless ecosystem, who would have one less carrier prospect to pitch.

One other thought - might Verizon Wireless be considering purchasing Alltel, so it can bring down Alltel's mean-hearted TV ads where Verizon and the other carriers look like dweebs? Something to consider...