The growth of cable telephony has exceeded most industry forecasts for 2001. Cable operators from around the world are continuing to deepen their investments in circuit switched technology while transitioning to IP cable telephony. Though IP reduces cost and improves network efficiencies, equipment vendors have yet to meet the expectations of cable operators. Allied Business Intelligence (ABI) identifies key requirements that cable operators are looking for before they deploy IP cable telephony services nationwide. According to ABI, AT&T Comcast, Optus, Cox, UnitedGlobalCom, and Jupiter Communications continue to lead the industry in cable telephony subscribers for 2002. ABI's research also indicates: For year ending 2002, there will be 5.21 million cable telephony subscribers compared to 2.93 million in 2001. Revenue generated by cable operators for cable telephony for year ending 2002 will be $2.11 billion dollars. More mergers and acquisitions to follow AT&T Comcast merger in the cable industry.
