AOL changes tune in debate on cable access

Article Abstract:

Now that America Online has acquired Time Warner and its extensive CATV network, AOL seems to have cooled on the issue of open access. Last fall, as AT&T was renegotiating municipal cable licenses after its purchase of TCI, AOL argued that open access should be a part of the transfer of licenses to AT&T. AOL is now qualifying earlier rhetoric, saying its call for open access for all Internet service providers was within the context of what a given city's CATV network could handle. The company says it seeks a 'market solution' that doesn't require government intervention.

Strategy & planning, On-Line Information Services, Videotex & Teletext, Planning, Online services, Time Warner Inc., America Online Inc., AOL, Political aspects, Company internet strategy

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AOL, Time Warner to open cable lines to other ISPs in move to curb concerns

Article Abstract:

In an effort to gain approval for its takeover of Time Warner, AOL agreed to open Time Warner's cable lines to other Internet service providers. This move would address antitrust concerns related to open-access issues. Prior to the merger announcement, AOL had supported the open access argument which will give consumers more Internet choices on high-speed cable lines.

Company acquisition/merger, AOL Time Warner Inc.

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FCC set to ease AT&T's path on MediaOne deal

Article Abstract:

The Federal Communications Commission is expected to revise rules that limit ownership of cable TV systems. The current FCC limit is 30% of all U.S. cable TV households. The expected changes will likely raise that cap to about 36%, which will make it less difficult for AT&T to satisfy the requirement as it acquires MediaOne Group. Other FCC changes may include a change in how a firm's minority interest in a cable system determines whether it is considered an 'attributable' owner, which affects whether that cable system counts against the overall cap. When AT&T acquires MediaOne, it will acquire a 25.5% interest in Time Warner Entertainment. Cable assets controlled by Time Warner are likely to count toward the cap. Despite the anticipated changes in FCC rules, AT&T will probably still need to sell off or restructure some cable systems in order to comply with cable-ownership limits.

Wired Telecommunications Carriers, Telephone Communications, Telephone communications, exc. radio, Analysis, Telecommunications services industry, Telecommunications industry, United States. Federal Communications Commission, Acquisitions and mergers, AT&T Corp., T, Telephone services, Securities, MediaOne Group Inc., UMG, Cable television/data services, Time Warner Entertainment Company L.P.

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