AT&T to buy T-Mobile for $39 billion
03-20-2011, 02:24 PM
#1
I'm Craig
Thread Starter
iTrader: (2)
AT&T to buy T-Mobile for $39 billion
So AT& T-Mobile now? I'm nervous to see how huge of a monopoly they'll have now.
http://tech.fortune.cnn.com/2011/03/...-t-mobile-usa/
http://tech.fortune.cnn.com/2011/03/...-t-mobile-usa/
AT&T-Mobile: AT&T buys T-Mobile USA
Posted by Seth Weintraub
March 20, 2011 3:05 PM
AT&T announced that the new entity would be the biggest in the US with 130 million subscribers.
The mobile carrier choices for US consumers will decrease by one if the purchase of Deutsch Telecom AG's U.S. T-Mobile unit by AT&T (T) pass regulatory hurdles. The venture, announced ahead of CTIA in Orlando tomorrow, would create the nation's largest wireless carrier and drop the big US mobile carriers to just three.
The new entity would also be the only GSM carrier in the US, something that will certainly play big with global users who use GSM when they travel abroad. The move will also consolidate spectrum hel by the two units. The good news for current consumers is that Radio equipment and devices on the two carriers are largely, but not totally, compatible.
I don't expect this to fly through US regulatory agencies becasue the mobile landscape, contrary to Google (GOOG)
/Verizon's (VZ) claims, isn't competitive enough in the US. This will only make it worse.
AT&T has set up a site at Mobilizeeverything.com for more information on the deal.
Posted by Seth Weintraub
March 20, 2011 3:05 PM
AT&T announced that the new entity would be the biggest in the US with 130 million subscribers.
The mobile carrier choices for US consumers will decrease by one if the purchase of Deutsch Telecom AG's U.S. T-Mobile unit by AT&T (T) pass regulatory hurdles. The venture, announced ahead of CTIA in Orlando tomorrow, would create the nation's largest wireless carrier and drop the big US mobile carriers to just three.
The new entity would also be the only GSM carrier in the US, something that will certainly play big with global users who use GSM when they travel abroad. The move will also consolidate spectrum hel by the two units. The good news for current consumers is that Radio equipment and devices on the two carriers are largely, but not totally, compatible.
I don't expect this to fly through US regulatory agencies becasue the mobile landscape, contrary to Google (GOOG)
/Verizon's (VZ) claims, isn't competitive enough in the US. This will only make it worse.
AT&T has set up a site at Mobilizeeverything.com for more information on the deal.
03-20-2011, 02:28 PM
#2
Sanest Florida Man
Damn the rumor was sprint was gonna buy tmobile! But this makes more since AT&T and t-mobile use the same gsm technology
03-20-2011, 02:31 PM
#3
Sanest Florida Man
:ibverizonbuyssprint:
03-20-2011, 02:42 PM
#4
Team Owner
I wonder if the FCC will allow this. This is bad for the consumer, IMO.
03-20-2011, 02:44 PM
#5
Safety Car
Yeah not sure how I feel about this. T-Mobile already uses some of AT&T's infrastructure so it makes sense. I don't think it'll bode well for cell phone plans however since AT&T restricts everything. 
03-20-2011, 03:11 PM
#7
Well there goes the hawt chick in the pink dress making fun of AT&T.
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03-20-2011, 03:22 PM
#8
The Third Ball
Join Date: Sep 2002
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AT&T is making the purchasing to save time and money in building new towers to extend range...now they just have all of t-mobiles to use and vice versa.
So, it could just be really good new for both.
We'll see
03-20-2011, 06:58 PM
#10
Depends...if they keep them as separate entities, than nothing changes.
AT&T is making the purchasing to save time and money in building new towers to extend range...now they just have all of t-mobiles to use and vice versa.
So, it could just be really good new for both.
We'll see
AT&T is making the purchasing to save time and money in building new towers to extend range...now they just have all of t-mobiles to use and vice versa.
So, it could just be really good new for both.
We'll see
03-20-2011, 09:03 PM
#13
Go Giants
whatevs
03-20-2011, 10:19 PM
#14
Not at all good for the consumer. T-Mo kept the other networks in check with their cheap plans, good customer service, and risky devices (G1). Now that ATT owns the market, you can bet device and plan prices will rise. Yay monopoly!
At least T-Mo will honor any contracts before the deal closes.
http://newsroom.t-mobile.com/article...quires-tmobile
At least T-Mo will honor any contracts before the deal closes.
Will my rate plan change because of the acquisition?
We will honor all contracted plans that are entered into before the change of ownership.
We will honor all contracted plans that are entered into before the change of ownership.
03-21-2011, 02:23 AM
#15
Safety Car
Apparently, both companies will operate separately for now:
Source: http://newsroom.t-mobile.com/article...quires-tmobile
So for now, they will remain separate but who knows after the deal closes. Plans will be grandfathered and then what? Will AT&T raise T-Mobile's cheap plans to match theirs? I guess we'll find out soon enough.
Q&A: More Information About AT&T Acquisition of T-Mobile USA
Bellevue, Wash. — Mar. 20, 2011 PDT
An agreement was announced under which AT&T will acquire T-Mobile USA. The agreement is the first step in a process that, including regulatory approvals, is expected to be completed in approximately 12 months. Until then, we remain a separate company and continue to operate independently.
We know our customers, business partners and others may have many questions.
Here is some more information:
Will my service change?
There is no change in your service and we remain committed to ensuring you have the best experience possible experience using your T-Mobile USA products and services.
Will I now be billed by AT&T?
No, your billing remains exactly the same. T-Mobile USA continues to operate as an independent company. As always, you would receive advance notice to any changes to your services.
Why is T-Mobile USA doing this?
Bringing together these two world-class businesses will create significant benefits for customers. The merger will ensure the deployment of a robust 4G LTE network to 95% of the U.S. population, something neither company would achieve on its own. Also, because of our compatible networks and spectrum, the customers of T-Mobile USA and AT&T will experience improved voice and data service almost immediately after the networks are integrated.
Will T-Mobile USA’s quality be reduced?
No. In fact, the combination of AT&T and T-Mobile USA will offer an even stronger service to customers. Until the acquisition is closed, we will work hard to maintain our position as the value leader with America’s largest 4G network.
If the acquisition closes, will I still be able to use my T-Mobile USA phone?
Yes. Your T-Mobile USA device will operate the same in the future as it does today.
Should I wait to sign-up with T-Mobile USA or upgrade my phone?
No, T-Mobile USA offers the latest wireless devices that are affordable on America’s Largest 4G Network and the combination of AT&T and T-Mobile USA will mean even stronger service for our customers. Now is a great time to be a T-Mobile customer.
Is T-Mobile USA getting the iPhone?
T-Mobile USA remains an independent company. The acquisition is expected to be completed in approximately 12 months. We do not offer the iPhone. We offer cutting edge devices like the Samsung Galaxy S 4G and coming soon our new Sidekick 4G.
Will my rate plan change because of the acquisition?
We will honor all contracted plans that are entered into before the change of ownership.
Where can I express my opinion on this?
T-Mobile customers can utilize the company's online Forums.
Media Relations
T-Mobile USA
425-383-4002
MediaRelations@T-Mobile.com
Bellevue, Wash. — Mar. 20, 2011 PDT
An agreement was announced under which AT&T will acquire T-Mobile USA. The agreement is the first step in a process that, including regulatory approvals, is expected to be completed in approximately 12 months. Until then, we remain a separate company and continue to operate independently.
We know our customers, business partners and others may have many questions.
Here is some more information:
Will my service change?
There is no change in your service and we remain committed to ensuring you have the best experience possible experience using your T-Mobile USA products and services.
Will I now be billed by AT&T?
No, your billing remains exactly the same. T-Mobile USA continues to operate as an independent company. As always, you would receive advance notice to any changes to your services.
Why is T-Mobile USA doing this?
Bringing together these two world-class businesses will create significant benefits for customers. The merger will ensure the deployment of a robust 4G LTE network to 95% of the U.S. population, something neither company would achieve on its own. Also, because of our compatible networks and spectrum, the customers of T-Mobile USA and AT&T will experience improved voice and data service almost immediately after the networks are integrated.
Will T-Mobile USA’s quality be reduced?
No. In fact, the combination of AT&T and T-Mobile USA will offer an even stronger service to customers. Until the acquisition is closed, we will work hard to maintain our position as the value leader with America’s largest 4G network.
If the acquisition closes, will I still be able to use my T-Mobile USA phone?
Yes. Your T-Mobile USA device will operate the same in the future as it does today.
Should I wait to sign-up with T-Mobile USA or upgrade my phone?
No, T-Mobile USA offers the latest wireless devices that are affordable on America’s Largest 4G Network and the combination of AT&T and T-Mobile USA will mean even stronger service for our customers. Now is a great time to be a T-Mobile customer.
Is T-Mobile USA getting the iPhone?
T-Mobile USA remains an independent company. The acquisition is expected to be completed in approximately 12 months. We do not offer the iPhone. We offer cutting edge devices like the Samsung Galaxy S 4G and coming soon our new Sidekick 4G.
Will my rate plan change because of the acquisition?
We will honor all contracted plans that are entered into before the change of ownership.
Where can I express my opinion on this?
T-Mobile customers can utilize the company's online Forums.
Media Relations
T-Mobile USA
425-383-4002
MediaRelations@T-Mobile.com
So for now, they will remain separate but who knows after the deal closes. Plans will be grandfathered and then what? Will AT&T raise T-Mobile's cheap plans to match theirs? I guess we'll find out soon enough.
03-21-2011, 03:00 AM
#16
Three Wheelin'
If AT&T raise the low plan that I am currently having with T-mobile, I'm going back to Verizon.
03-21-2011, 04:28 AM
#17
Hold the onions
03-21-2011, 04:50 AM
#18
Drifting
does this mean better or worse service? I've been seriously considering leaving AT&T, and they're the only company i've known and been with for the last 8 years.
Completely losing service for like 8 hours after the Japanese earthquake, and during the tsunami warning here in hawaii, i'll say left me less than satisfied with AT&T.
Completely losing service for like 8 hours after the Japanese earthquake, and during the tsunami warning here in hawaii, i'll say left me less than satisfied with AT&T.
03-21-2011, 09:10 AM
#21
Apparently, both companies will operate separately for now:
Source: http://newsroom.t-mobile.com/article...quires-tmobile
So for now, they will remain separate but who knows after the deal closes. Plans will be grandfathered and then what? Will AT&T raise T-Mobile's cheap plans to match theirs? I guess we'll find out soon enough.
Source: http://newsroom.t-mobile.com/article...quires-tmobile
So for now, they will remain separate but who knows after the deal closes. Plans will be grandfathered and then what? Will AT&T raise T-Mobile's cheap plans to match theirs? I guess we'll find out soon enough.
03-21-2011, 10:06 AM
#22
Three Wheelin'
heres another unsettling news.....
http://www.boston.com/business/techn...o_be_replaced/
If this deal does close then I'll be going back to my basic plan, just text and voice...to hell with the data plan. im already paying $100 a month for my plan!
http://www.boston.com/business/techn...o_be_replaced/
If this deal does close then I'll be going back to my basic plan, just text and voice...to hell with the data plan. im already paying $100 a month for my plan!
03-21-2011, 11:52 AM
#24
Safety Car
So it looks like AT&T is going to be using T-Mobile's AWS 1700 MHz band to complement it's 700 MHz LTE band to provide "4G". The transition should be smooth and neither phones from either company should be affected 3G and 4G wise. Both companies will probably eventually use AT&T's 3G bands of 850 and 1900 MHz to free up the 1700 MHz that T-Mobile uses for 3G currently for primarily 4G. They'll use AT&T's 700 MHz LTE band in populated areas and T-Mobile's AWS 1700 MHz band for rural areas which will cover 95% of the US.
Source: http://www.tmonews.com/2011/03/liste...l-on-t-mobile/
So there you have it, a summary of today’s AT&T Press Event. So what did we learn? Well, I don’t think anything here was earth shattering as we fully expected that AT&T and T-Mobile would combine spectrum to provide a greater LTE and customer experience. The semantics of how that would be performed was of course that T-Mobile’s AWS band would be retooled for LTE and HSPA+. Customers will hope to gain an enhanced coverage map with less gaps in coverage and, of course, less dropped calls and more reliable data. Also stated in the Q & A portion was that AT&T would not keep all T-Mobile towers. Overlapping towers such as those less than a mile from one another may be looked at as cost-cutting measures. Customers with AWS handsets will be migrated into newer handsets that run off 850/1900 band to make way for LTE on the AWS bands.
03-21-2011, 12:35 PM
#25
The sizzle in the Steak
T-Mo peeps are gonna have to pay ATT prices soon enough
03-21-2011, 01:40 PM
#27
Three Wheelin'
does this mean better or worse service? I've been seriously considering leaving AT&T, and they're the only company i've known and been with for the last 8 years.
Completely losing service for like 8 hours after the Japanese earthquake, and during the tsunami warning here in hawaii, i'll say left me less than satisfied with AT&T.
Completely losing service for like 8 hours after the Japanese earthquake, and during the tsunami warning here in hawaii, i'll say left me less than satisfied with AT&T.
03-21-2011, 03:22 PM
#30
Safety Car
Thats the plus side. But the big negative is that AT&T now has full control of the GSM networks in all of the US. They can charge whatever they want now with lesser competition since its now down to 3 major carrier. Sprint has some financial issues right now and we may see just Verizon and AT&T in the future which will be worst for consumers.
03-21-2011, 04:06 PM
#31
Three Wheelin'
Thats the plus side. But the big negative is that AT&T now has full control of the GSM networks in all of the US. They can charge whatever they want now with lesser competition since its now down to 3 major carrier. Sprint has some financial issues right now and we may see just Verizon and AT&T in the future which will be worst for consumers.
it looks like this might be the case but im still hoping it wont be, i just renewed my contract a couple months ago so that i can get my hands on tmo's g2. Its one of the best phones i ever used...im already paying $100/mo for it. if it ever goes above $100 then time for ETF and move on to another carrier.
03-21-2011, 06:05 PM
#35
Better hope enough people make a sink about this. It's one of the reason MaBell was broken up many years ago. Unless they want to have their rates regulated as they use to.
03-21-2011, 07:18 PM
#36
Banned
I'll eat my cell phone if rates rise significantly for existing ATT customers. Probably going to be a key provision to obtain FTC approval.
03-21-2011, 07:28 PM
#37
03-21-2011, 08:16 PM
#39
The biggest losers of this deal are going to be the consumers. ... T-Mobile USA has been fairly aggressive in offering cheaper voice and data plans ... [which] has kept the prices in the market low enough. This has worked well for U.S. consumers.
...
Phone handset makers ... just lost any ability to control price and profits. ... Verizon and AT&T ... are going to try to hijack Android to serve their own ends.
...
T-Mobile has been pretty experimental and innovative. ... AT&T, on the other hand, has the innovation of a lead pencil.
...
Phone handset makers ... just lost any ability to control price and profits. ... Verizon and AT&T ... are going to try to hijack Android to serve their own ends.
...
T-Mobile has been pretty experimental and innovative. ... AT&T, on the other hand, has the innovation of a lead pencil.
http://gigaom.com/2011/03/20/in-att-...erybody-loses/
