Verizon Wireless Launches Digital Service in Montana

MISSOULA, MT — Verizon Wireless, the nation's largest wireless provider, today announced the launch of digital service in select markets throughout Montana. The new digital coverage in Billings, Missoula, Helena, Bozeman, Great Falls and Butte, is part of the company's $26 million investment in Montana in 2001. This investment is several times what was previously spent on network improvements in the years prior to Verizon Wireless' acquisition of the Montana markets and is a portion of its $4 billion investment to improve and extend the reach of its nationwide wireless network.

"The expansion of digital service in Montana is an example of Verizon Wireless' commitment to continually develop and enhance its network," said Marni Walden, regional president for Verizon Wireless in the Mountain Region. "Digital service will provide our customers with numerous benefits, including greater call clarity and security, longer battery life and talk time, and the ability to use advanced wireless services such as Internet access and text messaging."

Digital service also allows consumers to take advantage of Verizon Wireless' national and regional SingleRatesm plans. The respective plans offer no roaming or long distance charges nationwide or in 12 Western states, and are for travelers and business people. Digital customers can also take advantage of included digital plan features like caller ID and Voice Mail.

Previously, Verizon Wireless offered only analog service in the area. With the introduction of digital service, analog customers will continue to enjoy their existing coverage, and have the option to upgrade to a digital phone to enjoy the features and benefits of digital service.

"Verizon Wireless is pleased to bring residents of Montana the most advanced wireless technology," Walden said. "For many, it will change the way they communicate and stay in touch."

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About Verizon Wireless

Verizon Wireless is the largest wireless communications provider in the U.S. with more than 28 million wireless voice and data customers. The coast-to-coast wireless provider was formed by the combination of the U.S. wireless businesses of Verizon Communications (NYSE:VZ) and Vodafone (NYSE and LSE: VOD), including Bell Atlantic Mobile, AirTouch Cellular, GTE Wireless and PrimeCo Personal Communications. Verizon Wireless has a footprint covering more than 90 percent of the U.S. population, 49 of the top 50 and 97 of the top 100 U.S. markets. The company, headquartered in Bedminster, NJ, is 40,000 employees strong. Reporters and editors can find more information about the company on the Web at http://www.verizonwireless.com.

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