Bell Canada Deploys Lucent Stinger

TORONTO -- Bell Canada and Lucent Technologies (NYSE: LU - News) announced today that they have joined forces to accelerate the delivery of Bell Canada's broadband services to more customers in Ontario and Quebec. Under a collaborative strategic agreement, Bell Canada will deploy new network technologies that will allow the company to significantly increase the reach of its complete suite of IP-based applications and services. The initiative is part of Bell Canada's evolution to a Next Generation Network, and will simplify customer access to innovative, content and feature-rich communications services.

Through new technology provided by Lucent, Bell Canada will expand the deployment of its Sympatico High Speed® Internet service to an even broader base of customers. Bell Canada is pioneering an innovative approach to deploying Digital Subscriber Line (DSL) technology within existing neighborhood facilities, extending the reach of Bell Canada's market-leading services. Bell Canada is the first service provider worldwide to deploy the new Stinger® Compact Remote, which in conjunction with the Stinger FS+ and NavisAccess(TM) DSL Element Management System, will position Bell Canada to offer integrated IP-based voice, data and video services at faster speeds through regular telephone lines.

In addition, Bell Canada will evolve its voice messaging services using a Lucent's new IP-based platform, AnyPath® Messaging System. AnyPath® enables subscribers to access and manage all of their communications needs on one proven, reliable platform -- voicemail, e-mail, faxes, text messages, and voice-controlled Web-browsing -- using a telephone, wireless device or personal computer. This will allow Bell Canada customers to transition from traditional services to next generation at the pace that best suits their needs.

"This agreement is a significant milestone as it will allow customers to enjoy the benefits of our leading-edge suite of broadband communications services, while driving network efficiencies," said Eugene Roman, Group President, Bell Canada Systems and Technology. "The initiative further demonstrates our commitment to innovation and simple solutions that enhance the accessibility to broadband services for our customers in a world of IP."

"We worked closely with Bell Canada to develop innovative solutions that will bring next-generation broadband access and enhanced IP-based messaging services to its customers. Under this strategic agreement, Bell Canada continues to drive innovation and furthers its commitment to simplicity," said Alex Giosa, President and CEO of Lucent Technologies Canada.

Lucent Technologies Worldwide Services will be providing Bell Canada network integration and ongoing technical support services. Bell Canada plans to start implementing the new technologies onto its network in 2004.

Lucent Technologies Inc.

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