IP-based residential network

SBC Communications has announced advances in developing a network capable of delivering a new generation of integrated digital TV, super-high-speed broadband and VoIP services to residential and small business customers.

SBC companies have defined a strategy to drive fibre deeper into its networks to power high-speed, IP-based local connections.

Edward E Whitacre Jnr, SBC chairman and CEO said: "Fibre technologies and IP-based services will enable a communications revolution, allowing consumers and businesses to experience integrated video, data and voice services beyond what can be provided over any network today."

SBC companies are also pursuing the development of services that can take advantage of the network's bandwidth. For example, SBC and Microsoft have begun testing an IP-based switched television service based on the Microsoft TV IPTV platform.

SBC and Microsoft plan to begin field trials for the IP-based television platform later this year. The SBC trial is the first planned trial of the Microsoft TV IPTV platform with a US based telecommunications provider.