The telecommunications industry has evolved into a dynamic and interconnected network powered by advanced technologies. What began with Alexander Graham Bell's groundbreaking invention has transformed into a vast ecosystem enabling seamless communication across the globe. Today, the industry encompasses a wide range of services, including mobile and landline telephony, high-speed internet, 5G wireless connectivity, Voice over IP (VoIP), video conferencing, streaming platforms, and the Internet of Things (IoT). These services rely on sophisticated networks, including fiber optics, satellite systems, and cloud-based infrastructures, forming the backbone of the modern global telecommunications landscape. With rapid advancements in artificial intelligence, edge computing, and cybersecurity, the industry continues to shape how people, businesses, and devices connect and interact in real-time.

LOCAL SERVICE:  A local service (or local exchange) provider maintains the local lines, handles service and safety concerns, and provides switches for interconnection with other telephone service providers. The local telephone service market in Arizona has been classified as competitive which is why there are many local service providers in some areas of the State. 

The Arizona Corporation Commission (ACC) maintains jurisdiction over most of your local telephone service, including quality of service. The ACC has established rules and regulations that phone companies must follow.

LONG DISTANCE:  Long Distance telephone companies provide service beyond the local service area within the state of Arizona and throughout the world. Long distance telephone providers maintain or provide access to switches and lines between the local exchange carriers and other long distance telephone providers. Long distance service has been competitive for many years. The federal government and state government jointly regulate long distance service. The Commission has jurisdiction for calls placed within the state of Arizona (intrastate) through regulations, rules, tariffs and certification. If your call begins or ends outside of Arizona (interstate), the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has jurisdiction.

WIRELESS:  Wireless telephone service employs different technologies from the traditional local and long distance phone networks. Cellular and digital wireless services have exploded within the last decade as costs have declined. Technology has also expanded the quality and uses of wireless service. The FCC regulates wireless service, but local authorities maintain some jurisdiction over the placement of wireless antennas and towers as well as other local aspects of service. If you have a specific service and/or billing concern, contact your service provider, the Arizona Attorney General's office, or the FCC for assistance.

INTERNET:  Internet service utilizes the cellular/digital system, traditional landline service over copper wire, and other systems such as cable and fiber to connect digital communications between global users. The ACC has no jurisdiction over Internet service and Internet service providers. If you have a problem with your Internet service provider, please contact them to resolve your issue. For complaints, contact the Arizona Attorney General's office. 

Other competitive services and products have expanded as technology has grown. Either the federal government or state governments have deregulated competitive services and products, such as voice mail and customer-owned equipment, as the marketplace has become fully competitive. If you are not sure if the ACC has jurisdiction over a telecommunications product or service, please contact us.