


                                                                    EXHIBIT 23.1

                    CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS



We consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statement (Form
S-8)  pertaining  to the  Employee  Stock  Purchase  Plan of 360  Communications
Company of our report dated February 26, 1997, with respect to the  consolidated
financial statements and schedule of 360 Communications Company and Subsidiaries
included in its Annual Report (Form 10-K) for the year ended  December 31, 1996,
filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

                                                       Ernst & Young LLP



Chicago, Illinois
March 26, 1997

