AT&T to Deploy First Standards-Based HD-SDI Switching Capability to Distribute Contribution Video

LAS VEGAS, April 13 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- AT&T* today announced plans to deploy the industry's first standards-based High Definition-SDI video transport and switching network capability designed for the professional broadcast marketplace and customers using AT&T's Global Video Services.

The new feature will combine AT&T's ultra fast, self-healing SONET optical network with next-generation video transport technology based on JPEG2000 compression standards. It will support HD-SDI at rates between 75Mb and 400Mb along with SD-SDI at 24Mb to 150Mb.

Following a successful pilot program in January, AT&T expects to start delivering the feature utilizing JPEG2000 compression capabilities beginning 3Q 2010 in major metropolitan areas across North America.

"This enhancement to our AT&T Global Video Services portfolio will enable broadcast customers to take advantage of a cost-effective, high availability, high quality compression process for migrating to next generation video services such as 3D and higher-quality HD," said Sanford Brown, vice president, AT&T Connectivity and Metro Network Services. "AT&T has the ability to reach many media outlets on a global scale with a high level of network redundancy and resiliency -- and now with JPEG2000 compression technology planned -- for an unparalleled viewing experience."

The new capability will provide something that broadcasters, content providers and production studios have been looking for -- innovative and cost-effective access to higher bit rate video services over reliable delivery methods. It is designed to help these businesses improve the viewing experience for consumers demanding video over traditional cable television in addition to new endpoints such as mobile phones and the Internet.  

What's more, it will address broadcasters' needs to incorporate JPEG2000 compression technology while having to balance capital outlays for the necessary compression equipment with pressures on advertising revenues. Delivering high quality compression technology through AT&T's network can allow broadcast customers to focus more dollars around reaching more locations to generate more advertising dollars.

For more information on AT&T's Global Video Services, go to www.att.com/dms.

Cautionary Language Concerning Forward-Looking Statements

Information set forth in this press release contains financial estimates and other forward-looking statements that are subject to risks and uncertainties, and actual results might differ materially. A discussion of factors that may affect future results is contained in AT&T's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. AT&T disclaims any obligation to update and revise statements contained in this news release based on new information or otherwise.

*AT&T products and services are provided or offered by subsidiaries and affiliates of AT&T Inc. under the AT&T brand and not by AT&T Inc.

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AT&T Inc. (NYSE: T) is a premier communications holding company. Its subsidiaries and affiliates – AT&T operating companies – are the providers of AT&T services in the United States and around the world. With a powerful array of network resources that includes the nation's fastest 3G network, AT&T is a leading provider of wireless, Wi-Fi, high speed Internet and voice services. A leader in mobile broadband, AT&T also offers the best wireless coverage worldwide, offering the most wireless phones that work in the most countries. It also offers advanced TV services under the AT&T U-verse(SM) and AT&T | DIRECTV(SM) brands. The company's suite of IP-based business communications services is one of the most advanced in the world. In domestic markets, AT&T Advertising Solutions and AT&T Interactive are known for their leadership in local search and advertising. In 2010, AT&T again ranked among the 50 Most Admired Companies by FORTUNE® magazine. 

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SOURCE AT&T Inc.