Verizon Wireless (NYSE:VZ) expanded its "Unlimited Any Mobile" tests to Arkansas; Oklahoma; Mississippi; West Tennessee; Pensacola, Fla.; and Mobile, Ala., according to research firm Current Analysis. The carrier first began testing the offering--which provides unlimited calling to any mobile number in the United States, regardless of service provider--in August in Texas and Louisiana.
"With the holiday season just around the corner, we believe it's a great opportunity to offer consumers this Unlimited Any Mobile plan," said Verizon spokeswoman Sheryl Sellaway. "Our customers want the best value for their wireless contracts and we're listening by offering this promotion."
The actions mark an expansion of Verizon's competitive attack against the nation's No. 3 carrier, Sprint Nextel (NYSE:S). Sprint introduced its "Any Mobile, Anytime" plan--offering unlimited calling to any U.S. mobile number--last fall nationwide.
Verizon's "Unlimited Any Mobile" trial offering adds the unlimited calling function to five standard calling plans, which start at $59.99 for 450 anytime minutes on a single line and $99.99 for 700 anytime minutes on a family line.
Current Analysis said the trial offerings are available starting today through year-end. The initial tests in Texas and Louisiana were set to expire at the end of this month.
The tests are part of a wide range of pricing moves by the nation's largest wireless carrier. Verizon also has tested a postpaid plan that offers unlimited talking, texting and data for $99 per month, and is rumored to be unveiling today tiered pricing for its smartphone data plans.
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