Communications Connection

Some event in the future

creativeanvil — Tue, 27 Apr 2010 14:49:25 +0000

Friday the 13th @ 12:00am
Something about the event: a link to a website

a list
of what
will happen

Business Solutions on Your Terms

admin — Wed, 10 Feb 2010 18:10:17 +0000

All businesses are looking to get more from each employee. The best way to do so is providing them with the tools and technology necessary to improve productivity, stay informed and expand their connections to people and information they need. Communications Connection is committed to help you design specific solutions to help solve your challenges in the field, on the production line, at a customer site, on the retail floor or en route to make a customer delivery as a way to improve business efficiency and gain profitability.

We’ll meet with you at your place of business, talk with your employees and develop a communications strategy to connect the right people with the right information and/or people. Your customized solution will include the necessary wireless services, required equipment and subsequent support.

You could:

Give your real estate agents real-time access to MLS listing information when their client hasn’t found that perfect property
Manage multiple construction projects by communicating with everyone on the job at the same time or instructions for only your foremen with direct connect capabilities
Instantly track your truck fleet and the status of their deliveries to your customers with GPS functionality

We also understand the importance of retaining your best people. As a company benefit you can offer to your employees, we’ll design a wireless program that is only available because they work for you. Most include monthly service discounts, special phone and accessory pricing along with dedicated local customer service.

What’s with the Gs?

admin — Wed, 10 Feb 2010 18:07:54 +0000

There’s been a lot of publicity around 3G in recent days. Third generation technology or 3G provides accelerated data speeds and simultaneous voice and data capabilities for an amazing wireless voice and data experience. Some of the benefits you get with AT&T’s 3G coverage:

Access Cellular Video for faster on-demand viewing of high quality video clips from your favorite TV shows, news, sport and weather
Surf the wireless Internet faster and significantly lower your wait for page loads
Download files and access email faster from favorite providers like Yahoo!, MSN, and AOL.
Multi-task while you are on a call—search for movies times, look up directions, or send messages.
Get more done on the go with faster access to email and internet with AT&T LaptopConnect

AT&T has the nation’s fastest 3G network. This network currently covers 233 million people and is growing every day.

There are multiple levels of data service available on AT&T’s wireless network:

GPRS

General Packet Radio Service (GPRS) is the first level of data service. Data is compressed into small packets and sent in short bursts. With average speeds of about 35 kbps, GPRS allows nationwide text and email service and basic WAP (Wireless Application Protocol) Internet browsing. GPRS is the service of choice for many text messaging PDAs, including Blackberry, Treo, and others.

EDGE

EDGE (Enhanced Data rates for GSM Evolution) is a third-generation, high-speed, mobile data and Internet access technology. The AT&T EDGE network is available in more than 13,000 cities and towns and in areas along 40,000 miles of highways. With typical speeds of 75 to 135 kbps, it’s fast enough to support advanced mobile services like video and music clips, full picture & video messaging, high-speed color Internet access, and email on the move. EDGE is especially important to business users as it permits mobile access to corporate applications at speeds far in excess of dialup.

UMTS

UMTS (Universal Mobile Telephone Service) is the next level of service. It is the leading 3G technology choice today, offering potential worldwide coverage. Typical speeds of 220 to 320 kbps permit workgroup collaboration, vertical-specific devices (an x-ray viewer, for example), video and music on-demand, digital TV and radio, and services such as home or business security video monitoring.

HSDPA

Enhancement of UMTS with HSDPA (High Speed Downlink Packet Access) moves GSM into the range of true broadband service. With typical speeds in the range of 400 to 700 kbps, and a burst mode of up to several megabits per second, it is the fastest available cellular broadband technology. This brings a mobile data experience that is essentially the same experience of a wired network in the home or office.

Additionally, unlike other wireless technologies, UMTS and HSDPA offer you the ability to make simultaneous voice and data calls. This flexibility lets you use the same phone to speak with someone while also accessing Internet information.

How Do I Download Mobile Applications to My Phone?

admin — Wed, 10 Feb 2010 18:02:00 +0000

Simply access MEdia Mall from your phone. Select your phone make and model. Browse through the apps menu and select BUY for those you want. When the message arrives on your phone to notify you the app is available, follow the prompts to download. Be sure to choose the SAVE option so your download stays on your phone.

Normally, a message sent to your wireless phone should be delivered in a few moments, but occasionally system delays may cause it to take a few minutes longer. If after 30 minutes, you still have not received your app, please verify the following information:

You are a current AT&T customer.
You have an apps-capable wireless phone.
If you still are experiencing a delay and your purchase was less than 24 hours ago, access MEdia Mall on your phone, then Shop Apps and scroll to the bottom link called “My Stuff”. If the content you purchased is listed there, please select it to download it again. Otherwise, contact Customer Care at 1-800-331-0500 or dial 611 from your wireless phone.

Prices vary depending on the App. Some are charged as a one-time fee for unlimited use while others are charged as a monthly subscription. Standard data charges will also apply for the kilobytes used in downloading the App to your phone.

Apps are charged using AT&T DirectBill and appear on your monthly wireless bill from AT&T. You will be charged when the download is purchased and cannot receive a refund if you choose to delete it from your phone.

Another popular source of mobile applications is BlackBerry App World. To download apps on your BlackBerry device:

Press the Menu key.
Navigate to BlackBerry App World and click the Trackpad.
Locate the application to download; for this example, first navigate to the Search icon, then click the Trackpad.
Enter the keyword(s) to search for; in this case, press B to prompt an example to fill in. Click the Trackpad.
Scroll Down to locate the desired application, then click the Trackpad.
Review the pricing information, then with Download highlighted, click the Trackpad.
If the Application Permissions screen appears, scroll Up to Yes and click the Trackpad.
Once the installation is complete, click the Trackpad.
Press the Escape key three times.
To exit, press the Menu key, scroll Down to Close and click the Trackpad.
On the Expanded Home screen, navigate to Downloads and click the Trackpad.
The newly downloaded application is located here.

Let us know if you need any assistance downloading your favorite apps.

Android Is Coming

admin — Wed, 10 Feb 2010 17:57:28 +0000

Android is an operating system (OS) developed for mobile devices. Similar to Windows or Mac operating systems that control desktop and laptop computers, Android is built to control mobile devices, including smartphones, internet tablets and netbooks.

Android is an open-source platform, meaning interested parties can contribute to the development of Android and cater the software to meet their needs and desires. As an engineer close to the early development of Android succinctly put it, Android gives you “the ability to have your cell phone do whatever the heck you want it to do.”

Android’s Beginnings

Originally developed by Google, the search giant handed off Android’s reigns to the Open Handset Alliance – a consortium of hardware, software and telecom companies including HTC, Intel, LG, Motorola, Nvidia, Qualcomm, Samsung and Texas Instruments, among numerous others.

Applications

There are thousands of applications available for the Android platform, and the list is quickly growing larger and larger as Android makes its way to new handsets and wireless carriers. The Android Market offers both free and paid applications, discoverable and downloadable from any Android device. Google does not screen applications, and any developer can create applications for the Android platform. The Android Market provides descriptions, screen shots, and ratings and reviews from the Android community for each application.

Google Integration

Because of Android’s Google origins, many Android devices are closely integrated with a variety of Google’s litany of services. Google search with voice, Gmail, and Google Calendar are pre-installed on most Android handsets.

Android Phones

On January 6^th, AT&T announced plans to launch five new devices from Dell, HTC and Motorola based on the Android platform. Stay tuned for launch dates of these exciting new phones.

What Does It All Mean For You?

Browse the real Web—not a stripped-down mobile version of your favorite sites—including sites with Flash content.
Choose from a broad range of phone styles and manufacturers—anybody can build a phone with the Android platform.
Browse thousands of applications—right from your phone—to fit whatever need you have. From GPS-guided directions to restaurant finders, from music managers to email clients. You can download new apps on the go from Android Market.
Ongoing enhancements to your phone’s capabilities. Anybody can build and distribute new applications for Android phones thanks to an open development platform and a powerful developer community.

Small Sample of Incredible Apps

KEI

It’s essentially a Bluetooth key which functions as a control for your car so that you can automatically unlock or start the vehicle remotely by using your phone. It’s set up so that you can control one car with multiple phones (for families that share cars) and/or you can control multiple cars with a single phone (for people who have more than one vehicle). KEI requires a simple install device in the car and is designed to eventually be able to read the car’s diagnostic information for you.

Locale

Ever get embarrassed at a company meeting when your cell phone unexpectedly goes off? With Locale, you can make sure your device knows to switch to vibrate mode the minute you step into your office. With Android’s GPS capabilities, Locale adjusts your phone’s settings to wherever you’re located. Your phone will forward calls to different numbers based on whether you’re at work or home, or will send out a status message on Twitter letting people know where you’re located.

Wertago

Billing itself as “the mobile application nightlifers have been waiting for,” Wertago is a social networking application that lets users coordinate social events with their friends, rate current hotspots and create personalized social networking profiles for users to share their favorite locations. Like many other Android applications, Wertago uses Google Maps to map out different clubs, restaurants and theaters.

Life360

This is a neighborhood-centric social networking application that keeps users up-to-date with their local communities and families. Life360 users can receive emergency alerts in their neighborhoods and can send notices to everyone in the area. Whether you’re holding a backyard neighborhood barbecue or looking for help to find a lost pet, Life360 gives you quick access to your neighbors and your family.

GoCart

The goal of GoCart is to help shoppers gather as much information as they need to make smart, informed decisions. Using GPS and Android’s built-in camera to scan bar codes, the application will search both the Web and local stores to compare prices of any product. The application also lets you read user reviews of products and can set up price alerts whenever prices go down either in stores or online.

Hands Free Driving

admin — Wed, 10 Feb 2010 17:51:14 +0000

Stylish in design and easy to use, the BlueAnt S1 car speakerphone offers a safe way to use your phone while driving. No installation is required since it mounts right on your sun visor.

Answering a call is as simple as saying the word “Answer”. There is no need to take your hands off the wheel or your eyes off the road. If your phone has a voice dial feature, then you can make calls using your voice too. Just one press of a button and the S1 will activate your phone’s full voice dial functionality.

With multipoint technology, you can connect your passenger’s phone to the BlueAnt S1 at the same time. Either of you can answer your phone when it rings over the S1 speakerphone.

The S1 introduces music streaming which allows you to play music through the high performance speaker from any mobile phone that supports A2DP Bluetooth^® profile. In addition to playing music, the S1 can be used to hear turn-by-turn directions from the GPS application on your phone.

Phones can connect up to 33 feet from the BlueAnt S1. It comes with a 2 year replacement warranty (excluding the clip and charger). Each battery charge lasts up to 15 hours of talk time or 33 days of standby time.

Stop by your nearest Communications Connection store or give us a call to purchase yours for only $99.99.

To see if your state has implemented new Distracted Driving Laws related to cell phones, text messaging or hands free requirements, go to http://www.drivinglaws.org/indexhf.php.

Calling All Fans

admin — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 18:49:24 +0000

Your phone keeps you connected in so many ways. Wireless capabilities change on a daily basis. To help you keep pace, we’re now on Facebook. Become a fan and get automatic updates. You’ll receive Tips, Tricks and News to get the most from your wireless phone. Fan benefits will include exclusive coupons and discounts. You get access to our online accessory superstore for thousands of items you can’t find anywhere else. When we have special events and sales, you’ll be the first invited! For these benefits and more, sign up today.

Instructions for becoming a fan and inviting your family/friends

Log on to facebook.com (if you don’t have an account, it is free and easy to sign up)
Search for “Communications Connection”
Select your store’s area
Once on the page, click “Become a Friend” at the top right – you will now automatically receive any messages that are posted to that site
Under the profile picture of your store’s site, click “Invite your friends,” select the friends that you wish to invite off of your friend’s list and send the invitations.

What Are My Options When My Phone Has Been Damaged?

admin — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 18:46:23 +0000

Believe it or not… You’re not the only one who’s bounced your phone on the pavement, forgot it was in your back pocket before you sat down or dropped it in the (let’s just say water). We understand you’d be lost without it. Do you know your options when this happens?

Performance Protection Plan

Communications Connection offers our customers an exclusive Performance Protection Plan to provide service and protection beyond the manufacturer’s warranty on wireless phones and devices. Coverage guarantees that customers will have wireless equipment that functions properly for up to two years.

We understand that life happens – we’re here to fix it. Our exclusive warranty goes beyond what is offered by the manufacturer and protects our customers from unexpected costs to replace broken products. Beyond the manufacturer’s warranty which typically lasts 3-12 months, our Performance Protection Plan will repair or replace your handset for up to two years. In addition, we provide loaner phones so you are not inconvenienced while your wireless device is being serviced.

Phone Replacement

You always have the option of purchasing a new device at the retail sales price. There’s also a selection of pre-owned and refurbished phones that you may want to consider until you’re upgrade eligible. Just pop your SIM chip into the replacement phone and you’re good to go!

Send us a note, give us a call or stop by the store and we’ll help you with the option that best meets your needs.

Where Do You Work?

admin — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 18:40:36 +0000

Employees from thousands of organizations enjoy discounts on AT&T services. Every month, they automatically have their monthly charges reduced by a set percentage. Discount eligibility will depend on your employer’s agreement with AT&T. To see if you – and potentially your family – are eligible for discounts through your employer, just stop by your AT&T Communications Connection location. After a quick search, we’ll let you know if you’re eligible for a discount and at what rate. With a few clicks, we’ll add your employer’s id to your account and you can enjoy another work perk every month.

Click on the Locations tab at the top to find a store nearest you.

Who’s on Your List?

admin — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 18:39:02 +0000

Most of your calling is with a handful of friends and family. Now you can get unlimited talk time with five “VIP” domestic phone numbers at no additional cost! Families can join in the savings too and get unlimited calling with up to ten VIP numbers per FamilyTalk account. This is what we affectionately refer to as your A-List. And only AT&T lets you keep the minutes you save with Rollover. Let the good times ROLL!

Add your favorite peeps to your A-List – then talk to them as much as you want!

Here’s the scoop:

Individual plans 900+ minutes ($59.99 and over) per month, and FamilyTalk plans 1400+ minutes ($89.99 and over) per month qualify for A-List
No extra charge with your qualifying plan
Add up to 5 numbers on your individual plan
Add up to 10 numbers on your FamilyTalk plan
Add any domestic number, on any network – including landline numbers
Calls to and from your A-List numbers are not charged against your rate plan, Mobile to Mobile, or Rollover® minutes.
Update your list online as often as you want, right from your myWireless Account

If you’re not on an A-List plan, stop by the store or give us a call and we’ll get you set up today!