AT&T, Yahoo! in Internet phone deal

AT&T and Yahoo! jointly launched an integrated Internet-based voice communications service.

Together, they will provide a co-branded version of Yahoo! messenger with voice to AT&T Yahoo! high-speed Internet subscribers.

As a result of the partnership, AT&T companies will be Yahoo!'s preferred network termination providers for the personal-computer-based calling services in Yahoo! messenger with voice service globally.

"AT&T Yahoo! messenger with voice enhances and adds value to our broadband service," Scott Helbing, chief marketing office at AT&T's consumer unit, said in a news release. "It also underscores our commitment to lead the industry in delivering the next generation of integrated communications and entertainment services," he added.

"Together we can continue to create seamless experiences that bridge the traditional telecommunications and Internet worlds. We are excited to bring together Yahoo!'s Internet community and applications with AT&T's history of innovation, high-quality network, and leading voice and high speed Internet services," said Steve Boom, senior vice president of broadband at Yahoo!.

Copyright 2006 by United Press International