The FCC, under delegated authority, issued a Memorandum Opinion and Order approving T-Mobile’s $4.4 billion acquisition of UScellular’s customers and certain spectrum licenses. UScellular will retain its towers and some spectrum but will exit the wireless business, clearing the way for a major shift in rural wireless coverage. FCC staff praised the deal’s potential to enhance rural connectivity, including faster data speeds and improved fixed wireless access in underserved areas. FCC staff conditioned the transaction only on the elimination of T-Mobile’s DEI initiatives as well as some commitments that T-Mobile made to NATE members.
DOJ also issued a statement last week noting that it will not seek an injunction to prevent T-Mobile from closing on the proposed transaction. DOJ Antitrust Chief Gail Slater acknowledged the deal’s benefits but warned of the spectrum consolidation among the “Big 3” carriers.
UScellular’s transactions with AT&T and Verizon are still pending.
