In the world of telecommunications, the United States is a major player, with a wide range of service providers offering everything from mobile phone plans to broadband internet. But which of these companies can claim the title of the number one telco in the US? In this comprehensive analysis, we’ll take a closer look at the key players in the US telecom market and examine their strengths and weaknesses, market share, and customer satisfaction ratings to determine which company comes out on top. So, let’s dive in and find out who reigns supreme in the world of US telecommunications.
Overview of the US Telecommunications Industry
The History of Telecommunications in the US
The history of telecommunications in the United States dates back to the late 19th century when Alexander Graham Bell made the first telephone call. Since then, the industry has undergone significant changes, driven by advancements in technology and changes in consumer demand.
One of the most significant changes in the industry was the breakup of AT&T in 1984. AT&T had been the dominant player in the telecommunications industry for many years, controlling over 90% of the market. However, the company was broken up into several smaller companies, including AT&T Corporation, which focused on long-distance services, and the seven Regional Bell Companies (RBOCs), which provided local telephone service.
In the 1990s, the industry experienced further deregulation, which led to increased competition. The Telecommunications Act of 1996 removed restrictions on foreign investment in the US telecommunications industry and required local phone companies to share their networks with competitors. This led to the entry of new players into the market, including cable companies and other telecommunications providers.
The rise of the internet and mobile devices has also had a significant impact on the telecommunications industry. Companies that were once primarily focused on providing traditional telephone services have had to adapt to changing consumer demands and invest in new technologies to remain competitive.
Today, the US telecommunications industry is highly competitive, with several large players vying for market share. Some of the largest players include AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile, and Comcast. However, the industry is constantly evolving, and new technologies and business models are emerging all the time.
Market Structure and Competition
The telecommunications industry in the United States is characterized by intense competition and a highly concentrated market structure. The industry is dominated by a small number of large players, with the top four carriers accounting for more than 90% of the mobile phone market. This section will provide a comprehensive analysis of the market structure and competition in the US telecommunications industry.
Market Structure
The US telecommunications industry is a monopolistic competition market structure. This means that there are many firms producing similar products, but barriers to entry are relatively low. As a result, firms in this industry must constantly innovate and differentiate their products to stay competitive.
Competition
The US telecommunications industry is highly competitive, with a large number of players vying for market share. The top four carriers – Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, and Sprint – dominate the market, with Verizon and AT&T being the largest players. These carriers offer a range of services, including wireless voice and data services, as well as wired broadband and television services.
In addition to the large carriers, there are also a number of smaller players in the market, including regional carriers and virtual operators. These smaller players often focus on niche markets or offer more affordable pricing options for consumers.
Mergers and Acquisitions
The telecommunications industry has seen a number of significant mergers and acquisitions in recent years. For example, T-Mobile acquired MetroPCS in 2013, and Sprint acquired Nextel in 2005. These types of deals can help carriers increase their market share and expand their service offerings.
However, mergers and acquisitions can also lead to increased concentration in the market and potentially reduce competition. For example, the proposed merger between T-Mobile and Sprint is currently being reviewed by regulators due to concerns about potential antitrust violations.
Regulatory Environment
The US telecommunications industry is subject to a complex regulatory environment. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is the primary regulatory body for the industry, and is responsible for ensuring that carriers comply with a range of rules and regulations.
The FCC has taken a number of actions in recent years to promote competition and protect consumers. For example, the agency has implemented net neutrality rules to ensure that internet service providers do not discriminate against certain types of content, and has taken steps to promote the deployment of high-speed broadband to rural areas.
Overall, the US telecommunications industry is characterized by intense competition and a highly concentrated market structure. While there are a number of large players in the market, there are also opportunities for smaller carriers and virtual operators to compete and differentiate their services. The regulatory environment plays an important role in promoting competition and protecting consumers in this dynamic industry.
Major Players in the US Telecommunications Industry
Verizon
Market Share and Financial Performance
Verizon is one of the largest telecommunications companies in the United States, with a market share of approximately 33% as of 2021. The company has consistently ranked among the top players in the industry, and its financial performance has been impressive. In 2020, Verizon reported a revenue of $128.3 billion, with a net income of $12.6 billion. The company’s strong financial position has enabled it to invest heavily in its network infrastructure, which has helped it maintain its competitive edge in the market.
Services and Innovations
Verizon offers a wide range of telecommunications services, including wireless, wireline, and internet services. The company’s wireless service, Verizon Wireless, is the largest wireless service provider in the United States, with over 121 million subscribers as of 2021. Verizon Wireless has consistently been ranked as one of the best wireless service providers in the country, thanks to its extensive network coverage, high-quality service, and innovative products and services.
In addition to its wireless service, Verizon has also been at the forefront of innovation in the telecommunications industry. The company has been a pioneer in the development of 5G technology, and it was the first to launch a commercial 5G network in the United States. Verizon has also been investing heavily in IoT (Internet of Things) technology, and it has launched several innovative products and services in this area, including its ThingSpace platform, which enables businesses to manage and monitor their IoT devices.
Overall, Verizon’s strong market share, impressive financial performance, and innovative products and services make it a major player in the US telecommunications industry.
AT&T
AT&T is one of the largest telecommunications companies in the United States, with a significant market share in both mobile and fixed-line services. As of 2021, AT&T holds approximately 34% of the US mobile market share, making it the second-largest mobile carrier in the country. In terms of fixed-line services, AT&T is the largest provider of fiber-optic and DSL internet services in the US, serving millions of customers across the country.
From a financial perspective, AT&T is a Fortune 10 company with a market capitalization of over $200 billion. In 2021, the company reported a revenue of $170.8 billion, a net income of $12.5 billion, and an operating income of $23.6 billion. These figures demonstrate AT&T’s strong financial performance and its position as a leading player in the US telecommunications industry.
AT&T has a long history of innovation in the telecommunications industry, and the company continues to invest heavily in new technologies and services. Some of AT&T’s most notable innovations include:
- The first transatlantic telephone call in 1951
- The first mobile phone call in 1973
- The first text message in 1992
- The first 3G network in the US in 2004
- The first 4G LTE network in the US in 2011
- The first 5G network in the US in 2018
In addition to these pioneering innovations, AT&T has also been at the forefront of developing new services and capabilities that have transformed the telecommunications industry. For example, the company has been a leader in developing and deploying fiber-optic networks, which provide faster and more reliable internet services than traditional copper-based networks. AT&T has also been a pioneer in developing new video and entertainment services, such as its DirecTV satellite service and its AT&T TV streaming service.
Overall, AT&T’s history of innovation and commitment to developing new services and capabilities have made it a leader in the US telecommunications industry. The company’s strong market share, financial performance, and innovative spirit make it a formidable player in the industry and a contender for the title of the No. 1 telco in the US.
T-Mobile
T-Mobile is one of the largest telecommunications companies in the United States, with a significant market share. As of 2021, T-Mobile accounted for approximately 34% of the total mobile subscribers in the country, making it the second-largest mobile service provider after Verizon. This impressive market share can be attributed to T-Mobile’s consistent focus on improving its network coverage, customer service, and overall user experience.
From a financial perspective, T-Mobile has demonstrated robust performance in recent years. In 2020, the company reported a revenue of $43.8 billion, reflecting a steady growth rate. T-Mobile’s revenue has increased each year since 2015, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of approximately 8.4%. This growth can be attributed to the company’s successful acquisition of Sprint, which expanded its customer base and strengthened its network capabilities.
T-Mobile has consistently distinguished itself from its competitors through its innovative services and offerings. The company has been a pioneer in several areas, including unlimited data plans, 5G network coverage, and digital services.
Unlimited Data Plans: T-Mobile was one of the first major telecom providers in the US to offer unlimited data plans. This move disrupted the industry and prompted other players to follow suit. By offering unlimited data, T-Mobile appealed to customers who sought more flexible and affordable plans.
5G Network Coverage: T-Mobile has been aggressive in its efforts to build out a comprehensive 5G network. The company invested heavily in the acquisition of Sprint’s 5G spectrum, which has helped T-Mobile rapidly expand its 5G network. As of 2021, T-Mobile offers 5G coverage in over 1.6 million square miles, providing faster speeds and better connectivity for its customers.
Digital Services: T-Mobile has also expanded its portfolio of digital services, such as T-Mobile Tuesdays and Binge On. These services provide customers with exclusive discounts, promotions, and streaming options, further enhancing the overall value proposition of T-Mobile’s services.
In conclusion, T-Mobile is a major player in the US telecommunications industry, with a strong market share, robust financial performance, and a reputation for innovation. The company’s focus on network coverage, customer experience, and digital services has enabled it to differentiate itself from its competitors and attract a large and loyal customer base.
Sprint
Sprint is one of the major players in the US telecommunications industry, with a significant market share. According to recent data, Sprint holds around 11% of the US mobile market, making it the fourth-largest wireless carrier in the country. In terms of financial performance, Sprint has faced challenges in recent years, with declining revenues and profits. However, the company has been taking steps to improve its financial performance, including cost-cutting measures and a focus on expanding its network capabilities.
Sprint has been a pioneer in introducing new services and innovations in the telecommunications industry. The company was one of the first to introduce 4G LTE services in the US, and it has continued to invest in developing its network capabilities. Sprint has also been a leader in offering unlimited data plans, which have been popular with consumers who want to avoid overage charges. Additionally, Sprint has been exploring new technologies such as 5G, and has been working to integrate IoT devices into its network.
Overall, while Sprint faces challenges in the highly competitive US telecommunications industry, the company has a strong track record of innovation and a focus on improving its financial performance.
Factors Influencing the No. 1 Telco Position
Regulatory Environment
The regulatory environment plays a crucial role in shaping the competitive landscape of the telecommunications industry in the United States. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is the primary regulatory body responsible for overseeing and regulating the industry. Its role is to ensure that consumers have access to a competitive marketplace and that the industry operates in the public interest.
The FCC has implemented various regulations and policies to promote competition and protect consumer interests. For instance, it has established rules to promote network neutrality, which requires internet service providers to treat all internet traffic equally and not discriminate against any particular content or service. This has helped to prevent the dominance of any one provider and has ensured that consumers have access to a free and open internet.
In addition, the FCC has also implemented rules to promote transparency and disclosure, requiring providers to disclose information about their network management practices, data collection practices, and the prices they charge for their services. This has helped to increase consumer awareness and has given them the ability to make informed choices when selecting a provider.
Moreover, the FCC has also taken steps to promote the deployment of broadband infrastructure, particularly in rural and underserved areas. This has been achieved through various programs and initiatives aimed at encouraging investment in broadband networks and promoting competition in these areas.
Overall, the regulatory environment in the United States has played a significant role in shaping the competitive landscape of the telecommunications industry. The FCC’s efforts to promote competition, protect consumer interests, and encourage investment in broadband infrastructure have helped to ensure that the industry remains vibrant and dynamic, with many players vying for market share.
Technological Advancements
The telecommunications industry is constantly evolving, and technological advancements play a significant role in determining the market leader. The No. 1 Telco in the US must have a strong technological foundation to stay ahead of the competition. In this section, we will examine the various technological advancements that influence the position of the leading telco in the US.
Fiber Optic Technology
Fiber optic technology is a critical component of the telecommunications infrastructure. It enables high-speed data transmission over long distances, making it ideal for broadband internet services. The No. 1 Telco in the US should have a robust fiber optic network to provide high-speed internet services to its customers.
5G Network Technology
The fifth-generation wireless technology, or 5G, is the latest advancement in mobile network technology. It offers faster download and upload speeds, lower latency, and improved network capacity. The No. 1 Telco in the US should have a comprehensive 5G network coverage to provide high-speed mobile internet services to its customers.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML)
Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) technologies are transforming the telecommunications industry. They enable telcos to optimize their networks, improve customer experience, and develop new services and applications. The No. 1 Telco in the US should invest in AI and ML technologies to stay ahead of the competition and provide innovative services to its customers.
Internet of Things (IoT)
The Internet of Things (IoT) is a network of interconnected devices that can communicate with each other and exchange data. It has the potential to revolutionize various industries, including telecommunications. The No. 1 Telco in the US should have a robust IoT infrastructure to provide innovative services and solutions to its customers.
In conclusion, technological advancements play a critical role in determining the No. 1 Telco in the US. The leading telco must have a strong technological foundation, including a robust fiber optic network, comprehensive 5G network coverage, investment in AI and ML technologies, and a robust IoT infrastructure.
Market Dynamics and Competitive Landscape
Market Share
The market share of the leading telcos in the US is constantly changing, with new players entering the market and established players expanding their services. According to recent data, Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile are the top three players in the US telecommunications market, with a combined market share of over 80%.
Technological Advancements
The telecommunications industry is constantly evolving, with new technologies emerging that change the way we communicate. The top telcos in the US are investing heavily in 5G networks, which promise faster speeds and lower latency than previous generations of wireless technology. This investment in new technology is likely to continue to shape the competitive landscape in the coming years.
The regulatory environment in the US telecommunications industry is complex and constantly evolving. Changes in regulations can have a significant impact on the competitive landscape, as new rules and regulations can create barriers to entry for new players or favor certain types of services over others. For example, the recent repeal of net neutrality rules has had a significant impact on the way internet service providers operate, and may have implications for the competitive landscape in the future.
Mergers and acquisitions are a common strategy for companies looking to gain a competitive advantage in the telecommunications industry. In recent years, there have been several major mergers and acquisitions in the US telecommunications market, including the merger of T-Mobile and Sprint, and the acquisition of Time Warner by AT&T. These deals have had a significant impact on the competitive landscape, as they have reshaped the market and created new players with greater resources and capabilities.
Overall, the market dynamics and competitive landscape of the US telecommunications industry are complex and constantly evolving. The top telcos in the US are constantly competing to gain an advantage, and changes in technology, regulations, and market conditions can have a significant impact on the competitive landscape.
Key Considerations for the Future of the US Telecommunications Industry
5G and IoT Integration
As the world continues to progress, the demand for faster and more reliable connectivity has increased. This has led to the development of 5G and IoT (Internet of Things) technologies, which have the potential to revolutionize the way we live and work. The integration of 5G and IoT technologies is a key consideration for the future of the US telecommunications industry.
One of the main benefits of 5G and IoT integration is the ability to support a large number of connected devices. This will enable businesses to automate processes, improve efficiency, and reduce costs. Additionally, 5G and IoT integration will allow for the development of new applications, such as autonomous vehicles, smart cities, and remote healthcare.
Another key benefit of 5G and IoT integration is the increased speed and reliability of connectivity. 5G networks are capable of delivering faster download and upload speeds, as well as lower latency, which will enable businesses to operate more efficiently and effectively. This will also enable the development of new applications, such as virtual and augmented reality, which have the potential to transform industries such as entertainment, education, and healthcare.
However, the integration of 5G and IoT technologies also presents some challenges. One of the main challenges is the need for significant investment in infrastructure. This will require collaboration between government, businesses, and other stakeholders to ensure that the necessary infrastructure is in place to support the development of these technologies.
Another challenge is the need for security and privacy measures to be put in place. As more devices become connected, there is an increased risk of cyber attacks and data breaches. It is therefore essential that appropriate security measures are put in place to protect sensitive data and ensure that users’ privacy is respected.
In conclusion, the integration of 5G and IoT technologies is a key consideration for the future of the US telecommunications industry. While there are challenges to be addressed, the benefits of these technologies are significant and have the potential to transform the way we live and work. It is therefore essential that government, businesses, and other stakeholders work together to ensure that the necessary infrastructure and security measures are in place to support the development of these technologies.
Increasing Demand for Broadband Services
As the world becomes increasingly digitized, the demand for broadband services in the United States has been on the rise. Broadband services, which provide high-speed internet access to homes and businesses, have become a necessity for many Americans, as they allow for seamless connectivity to the digital world. The COVID-19 pandemic has further accelerated this trend, as more people have transitioned to remote work and virtual learning, relying heavily on high-speed internet connections.
As a result, telcos in the US have been investing heavily in their broadband infrastructure, expanding their networks and increasing their speeds to meet the growing demand. In fact, broadband services now account for a significant portion of many telcos’ revenues, making them a critical component of their business strategies.
Additionally, the US government has been working to improve broadband access in rural areas, where many residents still lack access to high-speed internet. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has implemented several programs aimed at expanding broadband infrastructure in these areas, providing funding and other resources to telcos that agree to build out their networks in underserved regions.
Overall, the increasing demand for broadband services is a key factor to consider when examining the future of the US telecommunications industry. As the need for high-speed internet access continues to grow, telcos that are able to provide reliable and affordable broadband services will be well-positioned to succeed in the market.
Potential Market Disruptors
Emerging Technologies
Emerging technologies, such as 5G and IoT, have the potential to disrupt the telecommunications industry. The increased speed and reliability of 5G networks, along with the growth of IoT devices, may lead to a shift in market share away from traditional telcos. Companies that can successfully capitalize on these emerging technologies may gain a competitive advantage over their rivals.
Disruptive Business Models
New business models, such as those employed by companies like Netflix and Amazon, may also disrupt the telecommunications industry. These companies have been successful in leveraging their existing customer bases to enter new markets, such as streaming video and cloud computing. If traditional telcos are unable to adapt to these new business models, they may lose market share to these disruptors.
Increased Competition from Non-Traditional Players
Non-traditional players, such as technology companies and cable providers, may also enter the telecommunications market. These companies have existing infrastructure and customer bases that could be leveraged to provide telecommunications services. If successful, these non-traditional players could disrupt the market and potentially challenge the dominance of traditional telcos.
Regulatory Changes
Changes in regulations, such as net neutrality rules, may also impact the telecommunications industry. These changes could potentially create new opportunities or challenges for traditional telcos, as well as disrupt the market in unforeseen ways. Companies that are able to adapt to changing regulations and navigate the resulting landscape may have a competitive advantage over their rivals.
Emerging Trends and Opportunities
As the US telecommunications industry continues to evolve, several emerging trends and opportunities are shaping the future landscape. These trends include the growing demand for high-speed internet, the increasing adoption of 5G technology, and the emergence of new players in the market.
Growing Demand for High-Speed Internet
One of the most significant trends in the US telecommunications industry is the growing demand for high-speed internet. As more and more Americans rely on the internet for work, education, and entertainment, the need for fast and reliable internet connections has become increasingly important. This trend is driving investment in fiber-optic networks and other advanced technologies that can provide faster speeds and more reliable service.
Increasing Adoption of 5G Technology
Another key trend in the US telecommunications industry is the increasing adoption of 5G technology. 5G is the latest generation of wireless network technology, and it promises faster speeds, lower latency, and greater capacity than previous generations. As more and more devices become connected to the internet of things (IoT), the demand for 5G technology is expected to grow significantly in the coming years.
Emergence of New Players in the Market
Finally, the US telecommunications industry is seeing the emergence of new players in the market. These new players are often smaller, more agile companies that are able to innovate more quickly than larger, established players. They are also more likely to focus on niche markets or specific segments of the industry, such as mobile payments or smart home technology. While these new players may not yet have the same level of market share as the larger players, they are certainly worth watching as the industry continues to evolve.
The Future of the No. 1 Telco in the US
As the telecommunications industry continues to evolve, it is important to consider the future of the No. 1 telco in the US. The following factors will play a crucial role in shaping the future of the leading telecommunications company in the United States:
Technological advancements will continue to play a significant role in shaping the future of the No. 1 telco in the US. As new technologies emerge, such as 5G and IoT, the leading telco will need to invest in these technologies to remain competitive. Additionally, the continued development of artificial intelligence and machine learning will enable the telco to improve its services and operations, and provide new and innovative products to its customers.
Market Consolidation
Market consolidation is another factor that will shape the future of the No. 1 telco in the US. As smaller telcos merge with larger companies, the competitive landscape will change, and the No. 1 telco will need to adapt to these changes to maintain its position as the market leader. Additionally, the telco industry is increasingly becoming a global market, and the No. 1 telco in the US will need to compete with international players.
Customer Demands
As the telco industry becomes more competitive, customer demands will play a crucial role in shaping the future of the No. 1 telco in the US. Customers are becoming more discerning and demanding better services, faster speeds, and lower prices. The No. 1 telco will need to respond to these demands by investing in new technologies, improving its services, and offering competitive pricing to remain the market leader.
The regulatory environment is another important factor that will shape the future of the No. 1 telco in the US. The regulatory landscape is constantly changing, and the No. 1 telco will need to adapt to these changes to remain compliant and competitive. Additionally, government policies regarding net neutrality, data privacy, and cybersecurity will have a significant impact on the telco industry, and the No. 1 telco will need to stay up-to-date with these policies to remain competitive.
In conclusion, the future of the No. 1 telco in the US will be shaped by a combination of technological advancements, market consolidation, customer demands, and the regulatory environment. The company that is able to adapt to these factors and stay ahead of the curve will be well-positioned to maintain its position as the market leader in the US telecommunications industry.
The Importance of Adaptation and Innovation in the Industry
The US telecommunications industry is constantly evolving, and the companies that will thrive in the future are those that can adapt and innovate. In this section, we will explore the importance of adaptation and innovation in the industry, and how the leading telcos are responding to these challenges.
Adaptation to Changing Consumer Needs
As technology continues to advance, consumers are becoming more demanding when it comes to their telecommunications services. They expect faster speeds, greater reliability, and more personalized experiences. In order to meet these changing needs, telcos must be willing to adapt their offerings and business models.
One example of this is the shift towards 5G networks. As 5G becomes more widespread, consumers will expect faster speeds and lower latency from their telcos. In order to meet these expectations, companies must invest in new infrastructure and technologies, such as small cells and edge computing.
Innovation in New Services and Business Models
In addition to adapting to changing consumer needs, telcos must also innovate in order to stay ahead of the competition. This means developing new services and business models that meet the evolving demands of the market.
One area of innovation is in the realm of digital services. As consumers spend more time online, telcos are investing in new digital services such as streaming video, cloud computing, and IoT solutions. These services offer new revenue streams and opportunities for growth, while also enhancing the overall customer experience.
Another area of innovation is in the realm of business models. Telcos are exploring new ways to monetize their services, such as offering bundled packages or partnering with other companies to offer integrated solutions. These innovative business models can help telcos differentiate themselves from competitors and increase their market share.
Embracing New Technologies and Partnerships
Finally, the leading telcos in the US are embracing new technologies and partnerships in order to stay ahead of the curve. This means investing in research and development, as well as forming strategic partnerships with other companies in the tech industry.
For example, some telcos are partnering with tech giants like Google and Amazon to offer new services such as smart home solutions and voice-activated assistants. These partnerships can help telcos expand their offerings and reach new customers, while also enhancing the overall customer experience.
In conclusion, the importance of adaptation and innovation in the US telecommunications industry cannot be overstated. The leading telcos are those that are willing to embrace change and explore new opportunities, whether it be through investing in new technologies, developing innovative business models, or forming strategic partnerships. By doing so, these companies can stay ahead of the competition and continue to thrive in a rapidly evolving industry.
FAQs
1. Who is the No 1 telco in the US?
There is no clear-cut answer to this question as it depends on how you define “No 1.” In terms of revenue, Verizon is the largest telecommunications company in the US, followed by AT&T and T-Mobile. However, if you consider market share, T-Mobile has the highest percentage of subscribers among the major carriers. It’s worth noting that the definition of “No 1” can vary depending on the criteria used, and the rankings may change over time.
2. How do the top 3 telcos in the US compare in terms of coverage?
All three of the top telcos in the US – Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile – have extensive coverage across the country. However, there are some differences in the coverage maps and the types of areas they serve. Verizon has traditionally had the most extensive network, covering rural areas and offering reliable service in many remote locations. AT&T has a strong presence in urban areas and has been investing heavily in its network to improve coverage and speed. T-Mobile has made significant strides in recent years, expanding its coverage and improving its network reliability, particularly in rural areas.
3. What factors should I consider when choosing a telco in the US?
When choosing a telco in the US, there are several factors to consider. First and foremost, you’ll want to consider coverage in your area. If you live in a rural area, you may want to prioritize a carrier that has a strong presence in your region. You’ll also want to consider pricing, as different carriers offer different plans and rates. Additionally, you may want to consider the quality of customer service, as well as any perks or benefits offered by the carrier, such as free streaming services or international roaming options.
4. Are there any regional telcos that are worth considering?
Yes, there are several regional telcos in the US that are worth considering, particularly if you live in a rural area or a location where the major carriers have limited coverage. Some examples include US Cellular, which has a strong presence in the Midwest and South, and Rural Wireless Association members, which offer service in remote areas that are not served by the major carriers. These regional carriers may not have the same level of coverage or service as the major carriers, but they can be a good option for customers who need reliable service in areas where the big carriers don’t offer coverage.
