The limited introduction of so-called naked DSL is among the signs that the Bells must face the day when local phone service will no longer be the linchpin to their business.

Its about damn time. I think the "phone line requirement" for DSL service ought to be illegal. In any event, people are increasingly opting for cable because it gives them more options. They don't want to pay $40 a month so telemarketers can call them. Your friends and co-workers call your cellphone, and it gets cheaper long distance.

Bells loosen their grip