MCI COMMUNICATIONS Meaning and
Definition
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MCI Communications, commonly known as MCI, was an American telecommunications company that operated as a long-distance telephone and data transmission provider. It played a significant role in revolutionizing long-distance telecommunication services in the United States.
MCI Communications was founded in 1963 as Microwave Communications Inc. The company began by providing long-distance telephone services by using microwave relay technology to transmit voice signals across its network. This innovation allowed MCI to compete with AT&T, the dominant telecommunications company at the time.
During the late 1960s and early 1970s, MCI engaged in legal battles with AT&T, challenging its monopoly over the telecommunications industry. These legal disputes led to landmark regulatory changes, ultimately opening up the industry to competition. As a result, MCI was able to expand and offer services across the nation.
In the 1980s, MCI gained popularity with its innovative pricing plans and advanced technologies, including the introduction of the first national public packet data network, known as MCI Mail. The company's success and growth eventually led to it becoming the second-largest long-distance telecommunications provider in the United States, serving millions of customers.
In 1998, MCI merged with British Telecommunications (BT) to form MCI WorldCom, which later became WorldCom. However, financial scandals and bankruptcy ultimately led to the collapse of WorldCom in 2002.
MCI Communications is regarded as a pioneering company in the telecommunications industry, bringing about vital regulatory changes and technological advancements that transformed long-distance telecommunication services in the United States.
Etymology of MCI COMMUNICATIONS
The term "MCI Communications" has its roots in the company's original name, which was "Microwave Communications, Inc". MCI was founded in 1963 as a subsidiary of the microwave technology company, Microwave Associates, Inc. (MAI). Initially, MCI was focused on developing and providing microwave relay systems for long-distance communication.
In 1969, MCI began providing long-distance telephone services, leveraging its microwave technology to compete with the established telecommunications monopoly of AT&T. Over the years, the company expanded its offerings and became a significant player in the telecommunications industry.
In 1998, MCI Communications Corporation was acquired by WorldCom Inc., and the combined company took the name "MCI WorldCom". However, due to various corporate and financial issues, the company eventually filed for bankruptcy in 2002 and changed its name to "MCI, Inc".
