Verizon experienced a widespread wireless outage across the US due to a software issue, causing many customers to lose service and be unable to make or receive calls, with the company working to resolve the problem.
US President Donald Trump criticized AT&T on social media for poor service just weeks after launching his own wireless brand, Trump Mobile, which operates across major carriers. The posts caused a temporary drop in AT&T's stock, highlighting ongoing concerns about the Trump Organization's use of his political brand for commercial ventures while in office.
AT&T experienced its second prolonged outage this year, causing customer frustration and raising concerns about the company's reliability. Experts criticize AT&T's response and communication, warning that repeated issues could erode customer loyalty. The outage affected major cities and even impacted some Verizon users. AT&T claims 911 calls were not disrupted, despite some local alerts suggesting otherwise. The company faces pressure to restore trust after consecutive outages and a recent data breach.
Mint Mobile is offering a holiday bundle deal where customers can buy the Google Pixel 8 Pro with any six-month data plan and receive a $200 discount on the phone, an additional six months of wireless service, and a free Google Pixel Watch 2. The offer is available for as little as $75 per month and is recommended for those looking for the best phone, smartwatch, and wireless carrier, but not for those satisfied with their current phone bill or who don't want to commit to a full year of wireless service.
Dish Network's stock surged over 4% in after-hours trading following reports that the company plans to sell its Boost Infinite mobile service on Amazon's website this week. The partnership with Amazon could enhance Dish's distribution and reach in the wireless service market.
Verizon and AT&T's stock prices fell after reports that Amazon is planning to offer its own wireless service, potentially disrupting the telecom industry. The news also affected the stock prices of other major players in the industry, including Dish.
Verizon reported a Q1 FY23 sales decline of 1.9% YoY to $32.9bn, missing the consensus of $33.6bn. Adjusted EPS of $1.20 was in line with the consensus. Total wireless service revenue was $18.9bn, up 3% YoY, reflecting the company's ownership of TracFone, premium Unlimited strategy, and pricing actions. Verizon reiterates wireless service revenue growth of 2.5% - 4.5% and adjusted EPS of $4.55 - $4.85, below the consensus of $4.70. VZ shares traded lower by 1.40% at $36.58 in premarket on the last check Tuesday.
T-Mobile plans to acquire Ka’ena Corporation and its subsidiaries, including Mint Mobile, a cost-friendly, prepaid wireless brand partly owned by actor Ryan Reynolds, in a deal for up to $1.35 billion. Mint Mobile offers premium wireless plans for as little as $15 a month and an unlimited plan for $30 a month. After the deal is completed, Mint's founders will stay onboard at T-Mobile to manage the brands, and Reynolds will continue in his creative role for the brand.