[Rumors]: AT&T "Sponsored Data" is Based on Openet's PCC

AT&T plans for 1-800 data service have been materialized.

Some of my previous posts show us how the process of developing the new product evolved over two years:

• [Feb 12]: AT&T Considers "1-800" Model for Mobile Data
• [Jun '12]: AT&T CEO: 1-800 Data will "Catch Fire in the Next 12 Months"
• [Dec '12]: AT&T Asks Subscribers about 1-800 Data Service 
• [May '13]: AT&T 1-800 Maybe Based on Advertising Revenue Sharing.

So it is ready now. AT&T announced it has "unveiled a new way for eligible 4G customers to enjoy mobile content and apps over AT&T’s wireless network without impacting their monthly wireless data plan. Similar to 1-800 phone numbers or free shipping for internet commerce .. data charges resulting from eligible uses will be billed directly to the sponsoring company .. The service is easily integrated into existing platforms and services and will be available across many mobile devices and operating systems. Additionally, the unique developer portal website includes intuitive features which allow sponsors to manage their offers, check billing and measure impact of offers using a robust analytics engine".

According to my sources, Openet's PCC solution supports the new AT&T service. Openet refused to comment, although AT&T is listed as a customer in its client list (here).

See also "Openet: NFV based PCC Deployment by NA Tier1 (AT&T?)" - here and "AT&T Tests Openet & Cisco for LTE: Session based Pricing, Speed Tiers" - here.

"Customers will see the service offered as AT&T Sponsored Data, and the usage will appear on their monthly invoice as Sponsored Data. Sponsored Data will be delivered at the same speed and performance as any non-Sponsored Data content"

Related guest post by Dean Bubley: "1-800 Apps Concept: Superficially Appealing but Unworkable" - here.

See "AT&T Introduces Sponsored Data for Mobile Data Subscribers and Businesses" - here.