Only to new customers for the moment

Jul 30, 2008 12:24 GMT  ·  By

Quest Wireless, a small US mobile carrier, has just announced that it will sell, as of today, handsets and services from Verizon Wireless, the second largest North American carrier. The offer is for the moment available only for Quest's new customers but, later this year, the already existing ones will be able to "switch to Verizon" too.

The announcement comes following a 5-year agreement between Quest and Verizon, according to which, Quest will basically become a reseller for Verizon (strengthening its position as a leading mobile company in the US).

Verizon's mobile devices available via Quest include regular phones, smartphones or BlackBerries, while the Verizon services include unlimited data plans and music or video related services.

Talking about the agreement with Verizon, Dan Yost, executive vice president of IT and product for Qwest, stated, "New Qwest customers can now experience America's Most Reliable Wireless Network from Verizon Wireless and enjoy the benefits of the wireless industry leader's latest devices, services and content. This is another example of Qwest's commitment to delivering simplified, integrated solutions to customers through the power of a strategic retail alliance."

John Colaiuti, vice president, national distribution for Verizon Wireless, added: "The Verizon Wireless brand stands for quality, reliability, value and innovation. We look forward to delivering to Qwest customers all the benefits of our brand to provide the best wireless experience available."

Based in Denver, Colorado, Quest Wireless currently has slightly over 0.8 million mobile subscribers. Until the beginning of 2008, Quest was in a deal with Sprint, the third largest US carrier and Verizon's direct CDMA competitor, as it was using its network for wireless services.

Quest's mobile phone offering was quite limited until now (compared to what Verizon offers), hence the new deal with the giant V carrier can only be a good thing for Quest customers.