ATLANTA, Sep 4, 2002 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Cox Communications, Inc. today announced the launch of High Definition Television (HDTV) service in its Phoenix, AZ market.

This is Cox's second of several commercial HDTV deployments planned for 2002. Along with other members of the National Cable Television Association, Cox is supporting the FCC's plan for moving television signals into the digital spectrum by rapidly deploying the product to its customers on a market-by-market basis throughout 2002 and into 2003; Cox is currently finalizing additional deployment plans.

"Cox remains committed to bringing the newest and best in home entertainment services to our customers and we are very excited to make this new service available in Phoenix," said Lynne Elander, vice president, video product development for Cox Communications. "High definition television is nothing short of revolutionary. Like the introduction of color television back in the 1950s, we anticipate seeing a big shift in the marketplace as more and more consumers discover HDTV and acquire the technology. As always, our customers can count on Cox to deliver the most advanced video services, like HDTV, conveniently into their homes."

In Phoenix, Cox's initial HDTV lineup includes ABC (KNXV, Channel 15) and PBS (KAET, Channel 8) affiliates, two channels of HBO HD, Showtime HD and Discovery High Definition Theater. Cox is selling Scientific Atlanta 3100 HD converters for $499.95 and is installing the boxes for a one-time charge of $49.95. There is no additional monthly charge for the ABC and PBS high definition channels. Customers who purchase the HD converter box and subscribe to HBO and/or Showtime will automatically receive the corresponding high definition channel(s). Discovery High Definition Theatre is sold a la carte for $6 per month.

Phoenix is the first Cox location where customers will be able to own all of the equipment necessary to receive high definition services. "This HDTV launch reflects Cox's commitment to developing appropriate business models for the retail distribution of set-tops. We're working with both manufacturers and retail distribution partners to develop the right model that will encourage consumer ownership of equipment that supports cable-delivered video services. This launch in Phoenix is an important first step," said Elander.

With the launch of HDTV service in Phoenix, Cox customers will be able to enjoy a broader array of services than available through any other distributors. The inclusion of local broadcast HDTV signals at no incremental monthly charge delivers an advantage that other distributors--including satellite providers--simply can't match.

About Cox Communications

Cox Communications (NYSE: COX), a Fortune 500 company, is a multi-service broadband communications company serving approximately 6.3 million customers nationwide. Cox is the nation's fifth-largest cable television provider, and offers both traditional analog video programming under the Cox Cable brand as well as advanced digital video programming under the Cox Digital Cable brand. Cox provides an array of other communications and entertainment services, including local and long distance telephone under the Cox Digital Telephone brand; high-speed Internet access under the brands Cox High Speed Internet and Cox Express; and commercial voice and data services via Cox Business Services. Cox is an investor in programming networks including Discovery Channel. More information about Cox Communications can be accessed on the Internet at www.cox.com.

CONTACT: Cox Communications David Grabert, 404/269-7054 David.Grabert@Cox.com