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FCC approves Verizon-Alltel buyout

updated 10:15 pm EST, Tue November 4, 2008

FCC approves Verizon deal

The FCC on Tuesday approved the Verizon-Alltel buyout, turning Verizon into the largest US wireless carrier with about 83.8 million subscribers, toppling AT&T's 74.8 million subscriber base. MobileCrunch reports that the $28.1 billion deal involves a buyout of $5.9 billion, accompanied with $22.2 billion in assumed debt. Details of the purchase state that Verizon must maintain a four-year roaming agreement with Alltel's existing partner carriers, a time period suggested by Verizon that doubled the FCC's requirement of two years.

While Verizon gets to benefit from the recognition of being the largest carrier, Alltel draws most of its benefits from connecting its approximate 13 million subscribers to a network of 70.8 million people. Exclusive handsets will be shared between the two companies, with Alltel customers gaining access to Verizon's Open Development program.

 
Previous Comments

Yes!

11/05, 06:51am reply

Now we can expect better support and performance! Buyouts and consolidation always makes things better for all involved!

testudo

Fresh-Faced Recruit

Joined: Aug 2001

+1

So long Chad...

11/05, 02:09pm reply

You had so much more to teach us.

Robb

Fresh-Faced Recruit

Joined: Feb 2000

0

employee

11/10, 08:21am reply

It's only better if you are not an ALLtel employee thats facing a loss of job.

Guest

Fresh-Faced Recruit

Joined: Nov 1999

0

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