Telecom giant SBC Communications has launched the SBC/DISH Network satellite service, offering EchoStar's DISH programming to customers in its 13 state service area.

Calling it a "strategic quadruple play," SBC officials claim that by adding satellite television programming to its bundled services, it is the first telecommunications company to offer video, wireless, broadband and local/long distance service on one bill. SBC began offering DISH to its customers in 2002 but customers were signed up separately by EchoStar and received separate bills.

"We now have perhaps the premier bundle in the industry," said SBC CEO Edward Whitacre Jr. "No competitor can surpass our compelling choices, great values and seamless customer experience."

SBC's offer of DISH network starts at $29.99 per month and all packages include local channels (where available) at no additional cost, free installation for up to four TVs, no long term commitments, and no equipment to purchase. The service also includes HD and DVR services at added fees.

The two companies plan on jointly developing decoders that combine satellite TV, DVR, broadband, home networking and telephony services in one box.