The telecommunications market in the United States is undergoing significant changes. The three major mobile phone operators, Verizon, T-Mobile, and AT&T, are going through a difficult time. Competition, once limited, is quickly gaining ground.
More and more users are moving away from these industry giants. Over time, the three companies have started to lose customers at an alarming rate. The reasons are clear: rates are rising and alternatives are multiplying.
Verizon, T-Mobile, and AT&T have caused discontent among their customers
One of the key factors behind this customer exodus is the increase in rates. Verizon, T-Mobile, and AT&T have raised their prices in recent months. This has caused discontent among their users, so consumers are now looking for more affordable and flexible options.
Mobile virtual network operators (MVNOs) and cable companies are making inroads into the mobile market. They used to offer only television and internet, but now they provide mobile services. These operators, with more competitive rates, are attracting more and more customers.
Combined internet and mobile phone packages are very attractive; moreover, people usually look for convenience and savings in a single service. In addition, MVNOs not only offer cheaper plans but also advanced plans. This allows them to attract more demanding users, who were previously loyal to the major operators.
The numbers speak for themselves
The figures for the first quarter of 2025 show a clear trend. Cable companies are standing out for their growth. Charter Communications, Comcast, and Altice USA added 886,000 new mobile lines in just three months.
This figure surpasses the 804,000 achieved last year in the same period. What's most surprising is that these operators are not only attracting customers looking for low prices. They're also gaining ground among premium users.
Charter, for example, gained 514,000 mobile lines in three months, while T-Mobile achieved 495,000 new lines. Meanwhile, AT&T obtained 324,000. Verizon lost 289,000 customers in that same period.
Comcast and Altice also added new customers, with 323,000 and 49,000, respectively. The cable sector is increasing its share in the mobile market. Although the three major operators still lead in volume, cable's growth is remarkable.
The cable sector already accounts for 18% of new mobile lines added. In terms of net growth, Charter, Comcast, and Altice account for nearly 58% of new postpaid lines. This progress is putting pressure on the three major operators, and they'll have to adapt if they don't want to lose more ground.