AT&T ve 2. čtvrtletí přidala 367 000 zákazníků optické sítě a meziročně zvýšila pokročilé domácí internetové služby o 29,5 %. Firma chce do konce roku 2026 přesunout 70 % bezdrátového provozu na platformy schopné otevřeného provozu.
Key Takeaways T added 367,000 fiber customers as advanced home Internet connections rose 29.5% year over year.Converged households churn at roughly half the rate and deliver a high-single-digit revenue uplift.AT&T targets 70% of wireless traffic on open-capable platforms and $4 billion in annual savings. AT&T Inc. (T - Free Report) is trying to turn connectivity demand into a more durable growth model. Its strategy now leans on fiber, 5G and business network services rather than old media and video assets.
Execution matters. Fiber reach, wireless scale and edge demand can support revenues and margins, while capital intensity and competition remain checks.
AT&T Rides the Fiber Convergence TrendFiber is central to AT&T because it supports more than stand-alone broadband additions. In the second quarter of 2026, the company recorded more than 1 million advanced connectivity net additions, including 646,000 Internet net additions and 432,000 postpaid phone net additions.
AT&T added 367,000 fiber customers in the quarter, while advanced home Internet connections rose 29.5% year over year. The convergence rate reached 42.5%, meaning a growing share of those Internet customers also had an AT&T postpaid wireless plan.
That mix matters because management indicated that converged households churn at roughly half the rate of stand-alone accounts and carry a high-single-digit average revenue per account uplift. AT&T ended the quarter with 38.6 million consumer and business fiber locations reached.
T Uses 5G to Broaden Internet ReachAT&T’s 5G strategy supports the fiber push rather than replacing it. The company uses millimeter-wave spectrum in dense areas and mid- and low-band holdings elsewhere to balance capacity and coverage.
Management has tied fiber and 5G together in a converged network that reaches more than 90 million customer locations with advanced Internet services over either fiber or 5G. Fixed wireless is one sign of that broader reach, with AT&T adding 279,000 fixed wireless customers in the second quarter.
T-Mobile US, Inc. (TMUS - Free Report) remains a relevant benchmark in wireless and home broadband competition. Its presence keeps pressure on carriers to pair network quality with attractive customer offers.
AT&T Pushes Toward AI-Ready NetworksAT&T’s edge and artificial intelligence-related network strategy is an emerging growth angle, not an immediate earnings reset. Management expects AI-ready connectivity needs to grow as users require lower latency, stronger uplink capacity and reliable traffic management.
The building blocks are dense fiber, 5G backhaul, spectrum depth, mobile edge computing zones and private 5G deployments. AT&T has cited more than 20 metro mobile edge computing zones live and more than 150 active private 5G and edge trials.
The planned EchoStar 600 MHz spectrum acquisition is intended to strengthen low-band uplink capacity. That could become more useful if AI workloads gradually lift backbone traffic and demand more reliable two-way network performance.
T Seeks Efficiency Through Open RANGrowth alone is not enough for AT&T’s investment case. The company also needs to run its network more efficiently as fiber, spectrum and 5G spending remain high.
Open radio access network, or Open RAN, is part of that effort. AT&T plans to use Ericsson technology to deploy a commercial-scale Open RAN buildout and aims to move 70% of wireless network traffic across open-capable platforms by late 2026.
The broader transformation plan includes vendor rationalization, artificial intelligence enablement, digitalization and lower legacy operating support costs. Management is targeting $4 billion in annual cost savings by the end of 2028. Verizon Communications Inc. (VZ - Free Report) offers another large-scale network comparison for investors focused on network cost discipline.
How AT&T’s Ratings Frame the Trend TradeAT&T offers exposure to several important connectivity trends, but the stock is not a clean growth call. Fiber convergence, fixed wireless adoption, edge workloads and Open RAN efficiency give the company a credible roadmap, while legacy declines and promotional wireless competition still limit improvement.
The stock currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). Its Value Score of A points to a favorable valuation profile, but the Growth Score of D and Momentum Score of F show weaker signals on earnings growth characteristics and near-term price trend.
The VGM Score of C places the combined style picture in the middle. Investors may see value in T’s connectivity exposure and income profile, but the market is still waiting for stronger growth and momentum signals.
You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
AT&T Inc. (T) Q2 2026 Earnings Call July 22, 2026 8:30 AM EDT
Company Participants
Brett Feldman - Senior Vice President of Finance & Investor Relations
John Stankey - CEO, President & Chairman
Pascal Desroches - Senior EVP & CFO
Conference Call Participants
Sean Diffley - Morgan Stanley, Research Division
John Hodulik - UBS Investment Bank, Research Division
David Barden - New Street Research LLP
Craig Moffett - MoffettNathanson LLC
Michael Rollins - Citigroup Inc., Research Division
Samuel McHugh - BNP Paribas, Research Division
Peter Supino - Wolfe Research, LLC
Presentation
Operator
Good morning, and welcome to AT&T's Second Quarter 2026 Earnings Call. [Operator Instructions] As a reminder, this conference is being recorded. I would now like to turn the conference call over to our host, Brett Feldman, Treasurer and Head of Investor Relations. Please go ahead.
Brett Feldman
Senior Vice President of Finance & Investor Relations
Thank you, and good morning. Welcome to our second quarter call. I'm Brett Feldman, Treasurer and Head of Investor Relations for AT&T. Joining me on the call today are John Stankey, our Chairman and CEO; and Pascal Desroches, our CFO. Before we begin, I need to call your attention to our safe harbor statement. It says that some of our comments today may be forward-looking. As such, they are subject to risks and uncertainties described in AT&T's SEC filings. Results may differ materially. Additional information as well as our earnings materials are available on the Investor Relations website.
With that, I'll turn things over to John.
John Stankey
CEO, President & Chairman
Thanks, Brett, and good morning, everyone. I do appreciate you joining us today. Earlier this year, we provided an outlook for accelerated growth and execution of our strategy, and that's exactly what we delivered in the second quarter. We gained more than 1 million advanced connectivity subscribers from fiber, fixed wireless and postpaid phones, with all 3
For the quarter ended June 2026, AT&T (T - Free Report) reported revenue of $31.56 billion, up 2.3% over the same period last year. EPS came in at $0.65, compared to $0.54 in the year-ago quarter.
The reported revenue represents a surprise of -1.49% over the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $32.04 billion. With the consensus EPS estimate being $0.59, the EPS surprise was +10.17%.
While investors closely watch year-over-year changes in headline numbers -- revenue and earnings -- and how they compare to Wall Street expectations to determine their next course of action, some key metrics always provide a better insight into a company's underlying performance.
Since these metrics play a crucial role in driving the top- and bottom-line numbers, comparing them with the year-ago numbers and what analysts estimated about them helps investors better project a stock's price performance.
Here is how AT&T performed in the just reported quarter in terms of the metrics most widely monitored and projected by Wall Street analysts:
Internet Connections - Fiber: 12.87 million versus 12.81 million estimated by three analysts on average.Internet Connections- AT&T Business Fiber: 724 thousand versus the three-analyst average estimate of 722.67 thousand.Internet Net Adds- AT&T Business Fiber: 23 thousand compared to the 21.67 thousand average estimate based on three analysts.Internet Net Adds- AT&T Fiber: 344 thousand compared to the 290 thousand average estimate based on three analysts.Operating Revenues- Corporate and Other: $87 million versus the five-analyst average estimate of $90.93 million. The reported number represents a year-over-year change of -7.5%.Operating Revenues- Latin America: $1.22 billion versus $1.13 billion estimated by five analysts on average. Compared to the year-ago quarter, this number represents a +16.1% change.Operating Revenues- Legacy: $1.63 billion versus $1.67 billion estimated by five analysts on average.Operating Revenues- Advanced Connectivity: $28.62 billion compared to the $29.05 billion average estimate based on five analysts.Operating Revenues- Advanced Connectivity- Other service: $151 million versus the three-analyst average estimate of $155.96 million.Operating Revenues- Advanced Connectivity- Advanced home internet: $2.93 billion versus the three-analyst average estimate of $3.01 billion.Revenues- Latin America- Wireless equipment: $444 million compared to the $427.92 million average estimate based on three analysts. The reported number represents a change of +13.3% year over year.Revenues- Latin America- Wireless service: $780 million compared to the $678.12 million average estimate based on three analysts. The reported number represents a change of +17.8% year over year.View all Key Company Metrics for AT&T here>>>
Shares of AT&T have returned -2.4% over the past month versus the Zacks S&P 500 composite's +0.3% change. The stock currently has a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold), indicating that it could perform in line with the broader market in the near term.
AT&T oznámila za 2. čtvrtletí výnosy 31,56 mld. USD a zisk 0,65 USD na akcii, oba výsledky nad odhady. Šéf John Stankey odmítl obavy ze Starlinku a řekl, že firma je v silné pozici.
Dallas-headquartered AT&T Inc (T) is extending gains on Wednesday morning after reporting Q2 earnings that came in handily above Street estimates.
The company posted $31.56 billion in revenue – up 2.3% on a year-over-year basis – on $0.65 per share of earnings (EPS), representing an exciting 20.4% increase from last year.
More importantly, responding to rising fears of Starlink competition in a CNBC interview, AT&T’s chief executive John Stankey said: “We can compete with anybody that comes in; we’re in a very strong position with the best product out there.”
That said, AT&T stock remains down over 20% versus its year-to-date high.
According to Stankey, new entrants like Starlink face severe structural hurdles trying to “replicate” ground-based connectivity.
While low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellites grab headlines, he pointed out that new rivals are “coming to the game very late after this industry has already been established.”
Crucially, satellite networks can’t really replace the tens of billions of dollars invested over decades to bring high-speed fiber and 5G connectivity into “dense environments” like hospitals, university campuses, stadiums, and high-rise office buildings.
AT&T currently handles more than 98% of the data traffic generated by its converged customers, leaving satellite coverage to fill only the coverage gaps when users walk entirely off the terrestrial grid, he added.
While there’ve been concerns that legacy carriers might repeat past missteps by signing wholesale network agreements that empower new competitors, Stankey dismissed the notion entirely.
According to him, AT&T does not need a wholesale partnership with Starlink to defend its market position, adding that the company pursues wholesale arrangements only when a segment of the market cannot be reached through its own brand, distribution, or fiber footprint.
In primary metropolitan and suburban US markets, AT&T’s combination of fiber buildouts and 5G spectrum allows it to “acquire and retain” both consumer and business accounts directly – making satellite-based distribution unnecessary for core market coverage.
Rather than surrendering distribution to a single satellite giant, AT&T Inc is leveraging an industry joint venture alongside T-Mobile and Verizon to manage off-grid coverage efficiently.
Stankey highlighted that the consortium allows carriers to aggregate consumer traffic volumes and contract across the entire satellite ecosystem – whether sourcing capacity from SpaceX, Amazon’s Kuiper, or AST SpaceMobile.
By maintaining flexibility across multiple satellite constellations, AT&T can handle the remaining fraction of off-network traffic at economical rates without undermining its primary connectivity offerings.
This pragmatic approach reinforces AT&T Inc’s core “fiber and wireless strategy” while offering seamless, affordable backup connectivity for subscribers wherever they travel.
Wall Street currently has a consensus Overweight rating on AT&T stock, with the mean price target of $29 indicating significant further upside from here.
AT&T ve 2Q překonal odhady díky 432 000 čistým přírůstkům postpaid zákazníků, vyššímu očištěnému EPS i očištěné EBITDA. Firma potvrdila celoroční výhled pro rok 2026.
Americký telekomunikační operátor AT&T zveřejnil hospodářské výsledky za druhé čtvrtletí roku 2026. Čistý přírůstek postpaid mobilních zákazníků překonal průměrný odhad analytiků. Nad očekáváním byly rovněž očištěný zisk na akcii a očištěná EBITDA.
Výsledky společnosti AT&T (T) za 2Q 2026 2Q 2026 Konsensus 2Q 2026 2Q 2025 Výnosy (mld. USD) 31,56 31,77 30,85 Čistý zisk (mld. USD) 4,59 -- 4,46 Očištěný zisk na akcii (EPS, USD/akcie) 0,65 0,59 0,54 Výsledky za 2Q Výnosy meziročně vzrostly o 2,6 % na 31,56 mld. USD.
Čistý přírůstek postpaid mobilních zákazníků dosáhl 432 000, nad odhadem 325 264. Míra odchodovosti (churn) u postpaid zákazníků s pouze mobilním tarifem činila 0,86 %.
Očištěná EBITDA vzrostla meziročně o 5,1 % na 12,3 mld. USD, nad odhadem 12,1 mld. USD.
Volný hotovostní tok dosáhl 4,7 mld. USD.
Výhled na FY 2026 Firma potvrzuje celoroční výhled pro rok 2026:
Volný hotovostní tok alespoň 18 mld. USD (konsensus: 18,17 mld. USD). Očištěný zisk na akcii 2,25–2,35 USD (konsensus: 2,32 USD). Růst očištěné EBITDA o 3 % až 4 %. Komentář vedení John Stankey, předseda představenstva a generální ředitel AT&T, uvedl: „Zrychlený růst, kterého jsme dosáhli v tomto čtvrtletí, ukazuje naše strukturální výhody vést další éru konektivity. Zrychlujeme tempo plánovaných zpětných odkupů akcií na letošní rok na přibližně 10 mld. USD, což odráží naši důvěru v naši tržní pozici. Díky vedoucímu postavení ve vláknové optice – nejlepší dostupné konektivní technologii – věříme, že náš výkon sítě a provozní rozsah nemají konkurenci.“
Návrat kapitálu akcionářům Společnost za čtvrtletí vrátila akcionářům 4,1 mld. USD, z toho přibližně 2,2 mld. USD formou zpětného odkupu akcií v rámci programu z roku 2024.
Návrat kapitálu akcionářům, zdroj: AT&T
Akcie AT&T Akcie AT&T (T) v předburzovní fázi obchodování rostou o 3,23 % na 22,98 USD.
Akcie AT&T Inc (T) před výsledky uzavřely na 22,26 USD Ukazatel Ukazatel Kapitalizace (mld. USD) 154,7 P/E 12,4 Vývoj za letošní rok (%) -10,4 Očekávané P/E 9,6 52týdenní minimum (USD) 19,9 Prům. cílová cena (USD) 29,2 52týdenní maximum (USD) 29,8 Dividendový výnos (%) 5,0 Zdroj: AT&T, Bloomberg
AT&T zveřejní výsledky za 2. čtvrtletí před otevřením trhu ve středu; analytici čekají zisk 59 centů na akcii a tržby 31,82 miliardy USD. Akcie v úterý vzrostly o 1,4 % na 22,26 USD.
AT&T Inc. (NYSE:T) will release its second quarter earnings report before the opening bell on Wednesday, July 22.
Analysts expect the Dallas, Texas-based company to report quarterly earnings of 59 cents per share, up from 54 cents per share in the year-ago period. The consensus estimate for AT&T’s quarterly revenue is $31.82 billion. It reported $30.85 billion last year, according to Benzinga Pro.
On July 7, AT&T, Ericsson and MediaTek completed North America’s first in-field trial of enhanced mobility features tied to Ericsson’s 5G Advanced Critical IoT subscription.
Shares of AT&T rose 1.4% to close at $22.26 on Tuesday.
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Let’s have a look at how Benzinga’s most-accurate analysts have rated the company in the recent period.
Considering buying T stock? Here’s what analysts think:
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Andra AP fonden reduced its position in shares of AT&T Inc. (NYSE:T – Free Report) by 40.3% during the 1st quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm owned 728,787 shares of the technology company’s stock after selling 491,513 shares during the quarter. Andra AP fonden’s holdings in AT&T were worth $21,128,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.
Other institutional investors and hedge funds have also modified their holdings of the company. Norges Bank acquired a new stake in shares of AT&T during the fourth quarter worth approximately $2,181,977,000. Amundi boosted its stake in shares of AT&T by 67.5% during the 3rd quarter. Amundi now owns 42,295,492 shares of the technology company’s stock valued at $1,094,184,000 after buying an additional 17,040,328 shares during the period. Alyeska Investment Group L.P. grew its holdings in shares of AT&T by 620.8% during the 4th quarter. Alyeska Investment Group L.P. now owns 11,891,778 shares of the technology company’s stock valued at $295,392,000 after acquiring an additional 10,241,949 shares in the last quarter. State Street Corp grew its holdings in shares of AT&T by 2.6% during the 4th quarter. State Street Corp now owns 332,089,723 shares of the technology company’s stock valued at $8,249,109,000 after acquiring an additional 8,314,678 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Arrowstreet Capital Limited Partnership increased its stake in shares of AT&T by 49.2% in the fourth quarter. Arrowstreet Capital Limited Partnership now owns 25,155,597 shares of the technology company’s stock worth $624,865,000 after acquiring an additional 8,297,201 shares during the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 57.10% of the company’s stock.
Analysts Set New Price Targets A number of equities research analysts have recently weighed in on the company. Citigroup raised their price target on AT&T from $29.00 to $31.50 and gave the stock a “buy” rating in a research note on Monday, March 23rd. Barclays dropped their price objective on AT&T from $26.00 to $24.00 and set an “equal weight” rating on the stock in a report on Wednesday, July 8th. KeyCorp raised their price objective on shares of AT&T from $30.00 to $36.00 and gave the company an “overweight” rating in a research report on Wednesday, March 25th. Weiss Ratings downgraded shares of AT&T from a “buy (b)” rating to a “buy (b-)” rating in a research report on Friday, May 29th. Finally, Wells Fargo & Company initiated coverage on shares of AT&T in a research note on Wednesday, July 8th. They set an “underweight” rating and a $18.00 price target on the stock. One research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, ten have issued a Buy rating, eight have assigned a Hold rating and one has assigned a Sell rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock currently has a consensus rating of “Moderate Buy” and a consensus target price of $29.14.
Get Our Latest Stock Analysis on T
Trending Headlines about AT&T Here are the key news stories impacting AT&T this week:
Positive Sentiment: AT&T is set to raise some home internet plan prices by $5, which could lift average revenue per user and improve near-term margins. These AT&T home internet plans are getting a $5 price hike Positive Sentiment: EDO said AT&T had one of the most engaging ads during FIFA World Cup 2026™, suggesting its marketing is resonating with viewers and potentially supporting brand strength. Kalshi, Oura Ring, and AT&T Score the Most Engaging Ads of the FIFA World Cup 2026™, ranked by TV outcomes data on edo.com/worldcup Neutral Sentiment: AT&T is working with major peers on a network-level tool to fight AI-driven identity fraud and is also testing low-latency 5G mobility technology, highlighting ongoing innovation but no immediate financial impact. AT&T (T) Takes On Identity Fraud While Testing Real Time 5G Mobility Neutral Sentiment: AT&T disclosed $2.65 million in Q2 lobbying spending, focused on broadband, spectrum, cybersecurity, and telecom policy issues that are important to the business but unlikely to move the stock on their own. Lobbying Update: $2,650,000 of AT&T SERVICES INC AND ITS AFFILIATES lobbying was just disclosed Neutral Sentiment: RBC Capital lowered its price target on AT&T to $27 from $31 while keeping an outperform rating, which is mildly positive overall but signals a slightly less optimistic valuation view. AT&T had its price target lowered by Royal Bank Of Canada from $31.00 to $27.00. Negative Sentiment: News that AT&T may raise home internet prices for lower-income customers could trigger churn concerns and political backlash, partially offsetting the benefit of higher pricing. AT&T is raising prices again, and this time low-income customers won’t be spared AT&T Stock Performance Shares of NYSE T opened at $22.00 on Tuesday. The business’s 50-day simple moving average is $22.92 and its 200-day simple moving average is $25.28. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.05, a quick ratio of 0.87 and a current ratio of 0.92. AT&T Inc. has a 52 week low of $19.89 and a 52 week high of $29.79. The firm has a market cap of $152.83 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 7.38, a P/E/G ratio of 0.86 and a beta of 0.24.
AT&T (NYSE:T – Get Free Report) last announced its earnings results on Wednesday, April 22nd. The technology company reported $0.57 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts’ consensus estimates of $0.55 by $0.02. AT&T had a return on equity of 12.49% and a net margin of 16.94%.The firm had revenue of $31.51 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts’ expectations of $31.29 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the business earned $0.51 earnings per share. The company’s revenue was up 2.9% on a year-over-year basis. AT&T has set its FY 2026 guidance at 2.250-2.350 EPS. As a group, equities research analysts expect that AT&T Inc. will post 2.32 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.
AT&T Dividend Announcement The firm also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, August 3rd. Stockholders of record on Friday, July 10th will be paid a $0.2775 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Friday, July 10th. This represents a $1.11 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 5.0%. AT&T’s payout ratio is presently 37.25%.
AT&T Profile (Free Report)
AT&T Inc is a global telecommunications company that provides a broad range of communications and digital entertainment services. Its core activities include consumer and business wireless services, broadband and fiber internet, and network infrastructure. The company operates branded wireless services through AT&T Mobility and deploys fixed-line and fiber networks to deliver high-speed internet and related home services.
AT&T’s product and service portfolio spans mobile voice and data plans, smartphones and device sales, home internet (including fiber-to-the-home where available), and managed connectivity solutions for enterprise customers.
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Key Takeaways AT&T reports Q2 earnings on July 22, with the model indicating a likely earnings beat.T expanded enterprise connectivity, connected car services and flexible consumer wireless offerings.AT&T is investing in fiber expansion, but intense telecom remain a challenge. AT&T Inc. (T - Free Report) is scheduled to report second-quarter 2026 earnings on July 22, before the opening bell. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for revenues and earnings is pegged at $32.04 billion and 59 cents per share, respectively. The earnings estimate for AT&T for 2026 has increased 0.43% to $2.32 per share over the past 60 days, while the same for 2027 has increased 0.79% to $2.55 per share.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Earnings Surprise HistoryThe communications service provider delivered a trailing four-quarter earnings surprise of 5.19%, on average.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Earnings WhispersOur proven model predicts a likely earnings beat for AT&T for the second quarter. The combination of a positive Earnings ESP and a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), 2 (Buy) or 3 (Hold) increases the chances of an earnings beat. This is exactly the case here. AT&T currently has an ESP of +4.83% and a Zacks Rank #3.
You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.
You can uncover the best stocks to buy or sell before they’re reported with our Earnings ESP Filter.
Factors Shaping the Upcoming ResultsDuring the quarter, AT&T strengthened its enterprise connectivity portfolio with several strategic initiatives. The company launched North America's first Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC)-enabled Software-Defined Wide Area Network (SD-WAN) service in collaboration with Cisco. The solution is designed to help enterprises protect sensitive data against emerging quantum computing-related cyber threats.
The company also expanded its connected vehicle ecosystem by extending its collaboration with Cisco and LiveOne. The enhanced Connected Car platform integrates in-vehicle connectivity with digital entertainment services. Such innovative product launches are expected to have a positive impact on upcoming results.
In the to be reported quarter, the company continued to expand its consumer connectivity offerings by introducing the Unlimited Day Pass for eligible iPad users. The on-demand service provides flexible wireless connectivity without requiring a long-term subscription.
AT&T also reaffirmed its long-term commitment to fiber and wireless expansion by announcing a $19 billion investment in California through 2030. The initiative aims to extend fiber connectivity to more than 4 million additional households and businesses.
However, AT&T continues to face intense competition in the U.S. telecom market from Verizon Communications, Inc. (VZ - Free Report) and Charter Communications (CHTR - Free Report) . This could limit subscriber additions and weigh on revenue growth.
Price PerformanceOver the past year, AT&T has declined 17.5% against the industry’s growth of 83.2%, outperforming its peers like Charter but underperforming Verizon. Charter has declined 65%, while Verizon has improved 8.8% during this period.
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Key Valuation MetricFrom a valuation standpoint, AT&T appears to be trading relatively cheaper than the industry and below its mean. Going by the price/earnings ratio, the company shares currently trade at 9.03 forward earnings, lower than 44.18 for the industry and the stock’s mean of 11.4
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Investment ConsiderationsAT&T is aggressively expanding its fiber footprint. The company has reached more than 37 million fiber locations, the highest in America. It is aiming to expand this footprint to more than 60 million locations by the end of the decade. Fiber is emerging as a critical component for AI native connectivity, cloud applications, streaming, gaming, enterprise workloads and next-generation digital experiences. Amid this backdrop, AT&T’s continuous investment in developing a robust fiber architecture nationwide will likely bring long-term benefits.
However, the U.S. telecom market is highly competitive. Major rivals like Verizon and Charter are also aggressively investing in fiber, fixed wireless access, and customer acquisition. T must continue offering attractive pricing, bundled services and network improvements to maintain subscriber growth. In the wireless domain, T-Mobile is also rapidly expanding its 5G network. This could pose a threat to AT&T’s wireless subscriber growth.
It has been implementing several initiatives to drive customer retention over the past several quarters. Its convergence strategy has become one of the central pillars of these retention efforts. The company is focused on increasing the number of households that subscribe to both AT&T wireless and broadband services, including AT&T Fiber and AT&T Internet Air.
When customers get dependent on multiple services from a single vendor, it becomes difficult for them to change service providers. From a user’s point of view, opting for fiber and wireless services from a single vendor reduces complexity for them as well. This trend improves customer retention, lowers churn and increases long-term customer value.
AT&T continues to experience steep declines in legacy wireline and copper-based services as customers migrate to newer technologies. The company's long-term growth story relies on massive investments in fiber and wireless infrastructure. It is accelerating fiber deployment, investing $19 billion in California alone through 2030, which places pressure on free cash flow.
End NoteAT&T continues to invest in fiber and 5G to expand advanced Internet reach and drive more households to buy wireless and home Internet together. Management expects fiber reach to grow by about 8 million locations in 2026, including over 4 million locations acquired from Lumen, and remains on track to reach over 40 million total fiber locations by the end of 2026. The effort of portfolio expansion and venture into new high-growth markets, such as network security and automotive, is a positive.
However, the U.S. wireless market remains saturated. This makes the market highly price sensitive and limits average revenue per user growth. Amid stiff competition from other major players, the company has to continuously invest in network upgrades and improve customer experience to maintain its market share, which impacts profitability. With a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold), AT&T appears to be treading in the middle of the road, and new investors could be better off if they trade with caution.
AT&T a Ericsson předvedly živý test detekce dronů přes 5G mimo AT&T Stadium s využitím Massive MIMO a AI. Síť dokázala v reálném čase sledovat polohu, výšku i rychlost více dronů, které létaly ve výšce 300 až 400 stop.
Key Takeaways T demonstrated live 5G drone detection with Ericsson using Massive MIMO radios outside AT&T Stadium.AT&T used AI and signal processing to track drone location, altitude and speed in real time.T plans to advance network sensing with Ericsson for enterprises, governments and public venues. AT&T Inc. (T - Free Report) , in collaboration with Ericsson (ERIC - Free Report) , has demonstrated advanced drone detection during a live trial outside AT&T Stadium in Arlington, TX. The initiative highlighted how AT&T’s existing 5G infrastructure can support real-time environmental sensing, marking a key step toward future 6G capabilities.
AT&T used Ericsson's Massive MIMO radios to detect, locate and track multiple drones flying at altitudes of 300 to 400 feet. AI-powered sensing and advanced signal processing enabled the network to generate real-time information on each drone's location, altitude and speed. The trial showed how the company's existing 5G network can enhance monitoring for large venues, critical infrastructure and public-sector applications without the need for dedicated sensing systems.
The project reflects AT&T's efforts to expand sensing capabilities through software enhancements and advanced radio technologies. The company also sees network-based sensing improving event operations by providing better visibility into vehicle movement, enhancing coordination of temporary infrastructure and increasing public-sector awareness of low-altitude drone activity.
AT&T will continue working with Ericsson to advance Integrated Sensing and Communication. The collaboration aims to expand practical network sensing applications for enterprises, governments and major public venues while supporting the evolution of next-generation wireless technologies.
How Are Competitors Performing to Improve Connectivity?AT&T faces stiff competition from Verizon Communications, Inc. (VZ - Free Report) and T-Mobile, US, Inc. (TMUS - Free Report) . Verizon is strengthening its connectivity by expanding its 5G network, enhancing fiber infrastructure and using AI to optimize network performance. The company is advancing private 5G and edge computing solutions to deliver faster, more reliable and secure connectivity. Verizon’s strong network meets the growing demand for high-speed, low-latency connectivity.
T-Mobile is improving connectivity by enhancing its nationwide 5G network and expanding coverage to more areas. The company is growing its T-Satellite service to help customers stay connected in places without traditional cellular coverage. T-Mobile has expanded its collaboration with Qualcomm to accelerate the evolution from 5G Advanced to 6G.
T’s Price Performance, Valuation & EstimatesAT&T shares have lost 22.2% over the past year against the industry’s growth of 94.8%.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
From a valuation standpoint, AT&T trades at a forward price-to-sales ratio of 1.11, below the industry tally of 8.87.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Earnings estimates for 2026 have increased 0.4% to $2.32 over the past 60 days, while the same for 2027 have increased 0.4% to $2.54.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
AT&T currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
AT&T se drží poblíž 52týdenního minima, ale dividenda 5,3 % vypadá podle firmy dobře krytá. Společnost čeká letos volný cash flow přes 18 miliard USD při nákladech na dividendu kolem 8 miliard USD.
AT&T (T +1.92%) isn't a stock that usually makes headlines. But lately it has been pulled into one of the market's hottest stories, SpaceX (SPCX 4.51%), and the result is a beaten-down share price and a mouth-watering dividend yield.
At about $21 as of this writing, just above its 52-week low of $19.89, AT&T's $1.11 annual dividend yields about 5.3%. Part of the reason the stock sits so low is a growing worry that SpaceX's satellite network could eventually eat into AT&T's business.
So is that fear justified? And with the yield this high, is the dividend safe? Those are the two questions that matter for income investors here.
Image source: Getty Images.
How real is the SpaceX threat? Capturing the concern weighing on the stock, Oppenheimer downgraded AT&T stock in June, pointing to SpaceX's Starlink satellites as a structural threat to the telecom's long-term broadband and wireless growth. SpaceX has been developing a direct-to-phone service, and it is reportedly plans to launch a Starlink mobile service for U.S. consumers.
That is worth taking seriously. A satellite network that can beam service straight to ordinary phones, with no cell towers required, could chip away at a traditional carrier over time.
But this threat could take years to morph into something meaningful, if it does at all.
Just how significant is the threat? Oppenheimer estimated that AT&T's fiber build could top out nearer 50 million homes rather than 60 million-plus management targets by 2030.
Those are meaningful figures, but they play out through 2030, not the next few quarters. They also sit against a business that is currently growing, not shrinking.
Here's what AT&T is actually doing right now. In the first quarter of 2026, revenue rose about 3% year over year, adjusted earnings per share climbed nearly 12%, and the company posted its best-ever first quarter for advanced connectivity internet net additions. Additionally, it ended the quarter with more than 37 million fiber locations and reaffirmed its target of 60 million by 2030 -- the very number Oppenheimer doubts it will reach. Far from being disrupted, AT&T's core businesses are among its brightest spots.
Is the yield safe? For income investors, this is the question that counts.
The good news is that the dividend looks well protected. AT&T expects to generate more than $18 billion in free cash flow this year, while its dividend costs about $8 billion. That is a payout of less than half of free cash flow -- comfortable coverage, even with the company investing heavily in its network and buying back stock. On top of the dividend, management plans about $8 billion in buybacks this year, another way it returns cash to shareholders. Measured against profit, the payout is just as comfortable: AT&T earned about $2.99 per share over the past year against a $1.11 dividend, well under half its earnings.
It's true that free cash flow dipped in the first quarter, to $2.5 billion from $3.1 billion a year earlier, as capital spending rose. That dip reflects investment in the very fiber and wireless network winning those customers, not a business in trouble. Management still expects capital spending of $23 billion to $24 billion for the year and free cash flow above $18 billion.
The valuation adds to the appeal.
AT&T trades at about 7 times trailing earnings and 9 times expected earnings -- a deep discount to the broader market, which sits in the low-to-mid 20s. That kind of multiple is normal for a no-growth telecom, yet AT&T is still growing, which makes the discount look overdone. For a profitable, cash-generative business, that is cheap.
Today's Change
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So, is AT&T stock oversold?
I think so. The concern is legitimate, and satellite-to-phone technology is worth watching. But it is a slow-moving, decade-long risk, and the market is arguably pricing it as if it were imminent, into a stock whose advanced connectivity internet business just posted a best-ever first quarter for net additions. For income investors who can tolerate a slow grower, a well-covered yield above 5% from a stock trading near a 52-week low looks more like an opportunity than a trap.
AT&T won't grow quickly, and I wouldn't expect much from the share price, but the dividend, at least, looks like it's on solid ground.
AT&T rozšířila 400G konektivitu do více než 40 amerických metropolí a dokončila akvizici fiber aktiv Lumen, která přidala 1,1 milionu fiber zákazníků a více než 4 miliony fiber lokalit. Současně potvrdila výhled na rok 2026.
Key Takeaways AT&T expanded 400G connectivity, added Lumen fiber assets and reaffirmed its 2026 outlook.T added 294,000 postpaid phone users as its wireless and fiber convergence strategy gained traction.T faces elevated debt and intense competition, while AI network monetization remains a long-term prospect. AT&T, Inc. (T - Free Report) stock plunged 27.5% over the past year compared with the Wireless National industry’s decline of 21.7%. The stock has underperformed compared to the Zacks Computer & Technology sector and the S&P 500’s growth during this period.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
The company has underperformed its peers like Verizon Communications Inc. (VZ - Free Report) and T-Mobile US, Inc. (TMUS - Free Report) over the past year. Shares of Verizon have dipped 0.5%, while TMUS stock has plummeted 25.3% during the same period.
Key Growth DriversAT&T expanded 400G wavelength connectivity to 40+ U.S. metros, enabling AI-ready, high-capacity enterprise networking. T’s 400G capability now covers 440,000 properties serving more than 2.3 million business tenants. The expansion has significantly boosted AT&T’s capability in the AI and enterprise networking space.
The company is benefiting from solid traction in the wireless vertical. It has added 294,000 postpaid phone subscribers during the quarter. Postpaid phone churn was 0.89%. The company is focused on increasing the number of households that subscribe to both AT&T wireless and broadband services, including AT&T Fiber and AT&T Internet Air. Its convergence strategy is paying off well, as evidenced by recent quarterly results. Around 42% of AT&T’s advanced home Internet users also subscribe to its wireless services. T recently introduced AT&T OneConnect. The product combines fiber and wireless into a single subscription. Growing adoption of such plans will deepen customer relationships and increase convergence.
AT&T continued to execute on its long-term connectivity strategy by strengthening its fiber footprint. During the first quarter, the company completed the Lumen fiber acquisition ahead of schedule. The buyout has added 1.1 million fiber customers and more than 4 million fiber locations. Along with these developments, AT&T continues to execute on its transformation initiatives, including AI-driven automation and digitalization, to support its target of $4 billion in annual cost savings by 2028.
The company has reaffirmed its guidance for 2026. It is targeting 3-4% adjusted EBITDA growth in 2026. Free cash flow is targeted at more than $18 billion in 2026, in excess of $19 billion in 2027 and in excess of $21 billion in 2028, alongside an adjusted earnings outlook of $2.25 to $2.35 per share for 2026. Given the highly competitive nature of the industry, this is a positive outlook.
Major Challenges for TThe U.S. wireless market remains highly saturated. The company faces strong competition from other players such as Verizon and T-Mobile. Verizon is also aggressively expanding its fiber footprint. It is also offering wireless and fiber bundled solutions to increase customer retention. Such initiatives could hinder AT&T’s fiber expansion and convergence strategy to some extent.
Amid intense competition, AT&T expects to invest $23-$24 billion annually through 2028 to expand fiber and maintain its wireless network. Sustaining such high capex for a few years may impact free cash flow growth and put pressure on margin at least in the near term. The company is also expanding its AI networking infrastructure, but AI monetization remains a long-term growth prospect, not an immediate revenue generator.
Net debt increased sequentially following the Lumen fiber acquisition. AT&T ended the first quarter with $11.96 billion of cash and cash equivalents and total debt of $138.41 billion. The time interest earned ratio has decreased to 4.8 from 5 in the fourth quarter of 2025. At the end of the first quarter, the company had a current ratio of 0.92 and a cash ratio of 0.24. It indicates the company may face challenges in meeting short-term debt obligations.
Estimate Revision Trend of TEarnings estimates for AT&T for 2026 and 2027 have remained unchanged over the past 60 days.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Key Valuation Metric of TFrom a valuation standpoint, AT&T appears to be trading relatively cheaper compared to the industry and trading below its mean. Going by the price/earnings ratio, the company shares currently trade at 8.52 forward earnings, lower than 60.11 for the industry and the stock’s mean of 11.49.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
End NoteStrong fiber momentum and wireless customer additions are major growth catalysts. The convergence strategy is boosting customer retention. AI-ready network expansion supporting enterprise demand is a positive. However, stiff competition and elevated debt levels are major concerns for investors. Monetization of AI-ready infrastructure remains a long-term prospect. High capital investment to support infrastructure expansion may impact free cash flow growth to some extent. With a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold), AT&T appears to be treading in the middle of the road, and new investors could be better off if they trade with caution. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
AT&T rozšiřuje Build-A-Plan o větší flexibilitu pro bezdrátové služby i domácí internet. Balíčky začínají na 70 USD měsíčně a umožňují přidat AT&T Fiber nebo Internet Air v jednom nákupu.
Key Takeaways T is expanding Build-A-Plan to offer more flexibility across wireless and home Internet services.AT&T customers can customize wireless and add Fiber or Internet Air in the same purchase process.AT&T's bundled packages start at $70 per month, helping customers manage costs and service choices. AT&T Inc. (T - Free Report) is aiming to extend its Build-A-Plan offering to give customers greater flexibility, personalization and value across wireless and home Internet services. The updated offering intends to deliver a more seamless and convenient experience for customers both at home and outside.
The enhanced Build-A-Plan allows customers to customize their wireless services to their needs and easily add home Internet options such as AT&T Fiber or AT&T Internet Air during the same purchase process. The plan offers greater control over service choices while helping customers manage costs, with bundled packages starting at $70 per month.
AT&T Fiber remains a key part of the initiative, offering high-speed Internet for households with growing connectivity needs. In areas where fiber is unavailable, AT&T Internet Air offers a dependable alternative through its wireless network, further strengthening the company’s customer-focused strategy.
How Are Competitors Performing?AT&T faces stiff competition from Verizon Communications, Inc. (VZ - Free Report) and T-Mobile, US, Inc. (TMUS - Free Report) . Verizon has strengthened its connectivity services by expanding its 5G network nationwide. The company continues to invest in infrastructure upgrades to deliver broader coverage and more stable network performance. This ongoing expansion positions Verizon to better support future technological advancements and digital innovation.
T-Mobile is improving connectivity by expanding its fixed wireless Internet services to reach more households. The company is focusing on enhancing network capacity to manage increasing data traffic. T-Mobile leverages its spectrum assets to improve network efficiency and strengthen overall service quality.
T’s Price Performance, Valuation & EstimatesAT&T shares have lost 27.8% over the past year compared with the industry’s decline of 23.5%.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
From a valuation standpoint, AT&T trades at a forward price-to-sales ratio of 1.08, below the industry tally of 1.5.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Earnings estimates for both 2026 and 2027 remained static at $2.30 and $2.52, respectively.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
AT&T currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
AT&T rozšiřuje Build-A-Plan o možnost snadno přidat domácí internet AT&T Fiber nebo AT&T Internet Air k upravitelnému bezdrátovému tarifu. Firma tím chce nabídnout více kontroly nad cenou i službami v jednom procesu.
Build-A-Plan empowers customers to adjust their wireless plan month to month based on their budget and needs—and now makes it easier to add America's Best and Fastest Home Internet1 for an awesome price.
Key Takeaways:
More Choice: Build-A-PlanSM customers can personalize their wireless plan to match their needs and their budget and easily add the best and fastest home internet in the process. More Control: The plan allows for flexibility, giving customers the option to add or remove wireless services at any time depending on their needs. More Value: More than half of customers now want the choice to personalize their wireless and have the ability to add broadband.2 With the improved Build-A-Plan experience, customers can now do that and save when they add America's Best and Fastest Home Internet, AT&T Fiber®, or AT&T Internet Air™ starting at $70/mo.3 , /PRNewswire/ -- What's new: On July 7, AT&T is expanding Build-A-Plan, giving customers the ability to customize their unlimited wireless plan and making it easier to add America's Best and Fastest Home Internet—all in one simple process. This builds on our commitment to keep customers connected at home and on the go, reinforcing AT&T's leadership in converged experience. And no other provider at our scale delivers the combined strength of wireless and home internet like AT&T.
Why it matters: Customers want seamless connectivity from a single provider. With Build-A-Plan, we are giving customers a simple, straightforward way to easily buy wireless and add AT&T home internet—while maintaining control over their budget.
More details: AT&T continues to lead in converged connectivity. We were first to offer a single subscription for wireless and home internet at one clear, all-included monthly price when we launched AT&T OneConnect. Now, Build-A-Plan delivers a customized option—letting customers tailor their wireless plan and easily add super-fast and reliable home internet, for a great price. This is our latest effort to simplify the connectivity experience, designed to flex around how people actually live.
Why AT&T Fiber: AT&T Fiber delivers America's Best and Fastest Home Internet—and customers notice. Fiber customers report the highest satisfaction, and those who bundle wireless and home internet see even greater value. With the nation's largest fiber network,4 AT&T is uniquely positioned to deliver a premium, converged experience.
Where fiber isn't available, AT&T Internet Air5 provides fast, reliable home internet powered by America's largest wireless network6—so customers stay connected anywhere they are.
Quotable: "Customers told us they want connectivity that works together seamlessly and the flexibility to choose what fits their lives," said Jenifer Robertson, executive vice president and general manager, AT&T Consumer. "With Build-A-Plan, we've already put customers in control of their wireless experience. Now, by making it easier for them to add AT&T Fiber or AT&T Internet Air, we're giving them even more opportunity to stay connected."
When the connection matters, it has to be AT&T. Start saving Tuesday, July 7: https://www.att.com/plans/build-a-plan/
FAQ
What is Build-A-Plan?
Build-A-Plan is AT&T's customizable connectivity experience that allows customers to personalize and adjust their plan month to month based on their needs and budget.
What is AT&T Fiber?
Fiber optic internet uses thin glass cables and light to send data, allowing for hyper fast speeds.
There are several key benefits to choosing fiber internet:
Fast speeds: Fiber internet can reach speeds that makes it ideal for streaming HD videos, online gaming, and using many devices at once. Equal upload and download speeds: Unlike most other internet types, fiber gives you the same fast speed whether you're uploading or downloading. This is great for video calls, sharing large files, and creating content online. Reliable connectivity: Fiber internet offers consistent speeds even during busy times when many people are online. This means fewer interruptions and a smoother online experience. Fiber optic internet offers fast, reliable, and consistent service, making it one of the best choices for anyone who wants a top-quality home internet connection.
What is AT&T Internet Air?
AT&T Internet Air is our wireless home internet delivered over the reliable AT&T 5G network.7
What is the difference between AT&T OneConnect and Build-A-Plan?
Both offer a simple way for people to get all of their connectivity from one provider.
AT&T OneConnect is a single subscription that combines fast, reliable home internet and wireless together across as many devices as needed,8 with one simple subscription and one all-in price.
Build-A-Plan is a plan designed to give customers more choice and control, with the ability to customize their wireless plan and easily add home internet at a great price, and adjust the wireless plan month to month as needed.
1AT&T Fiber, based on analysis by Ookla® of Speedtest Intelligence® data, 2H 2025. Limited availability.
2Build-A-Plan Concept Research, AT&T Brand Strategy, Dec 2025 – Jan 2026 (n=6,008 US wireless Consumers)
3Plus taxes & fees. $70/mo. for Build-A-Plan wireless ($15/mo + $20/mo unlimited data w/ SD streaming) and Internet 300 or Internet Air ($35/mo with elig wireless and Autopay & Paperless bill). Limit one line. Req's unlocked eSIM capable phone. Terms & restr's apply.
4Based on the number of fiber to the home households using publicly available data.
5In rare cases, if your usage is contributing to congestion on the network, AT&T will greatly reduce your speed for a min. of 30 min.
6Compares cellular networks, excluding satellite.
75G coverage not available in all areas
8Maximum number of wireless lines varies by plan. Limited to bring your own eSIM compatible, unlocked smartphones, tablets, and wearables.
About AT&T
We help more than 100 million U.S. families, friends and neighbors, plus nearly 2.5 million businesses, connect to greater possibility. From the first phone call 150 years ago to our 5G wireless and multi-gig internet offerings today, we @ATT innovate to improve lives. For more information about AT&T Inc. (NYSE:T), please visit us at about.att.com. Investors can learn more at investors.att.com.
The board of directors today declared a quarterly dividend of $0.2775 per share on the company's common shares, payable August 3, 2026.
Key Takeaways:
The board of directors declared a quarterly dividend of $0.2775 per share on the company's common shares. Dividends on common stock as well as Series A and Series C preferred stock are payable on August 3, 2026. , /PRNewswire/ -- The board of directors of AT&T (NYSE:T) today declared a quarterly dividend of $0.2775 per share on the company's common shares.
The board of directors also declared quarterly dividends on the company's 5.000% Perpetual Preferred Stock, Series A and the company's 4.750% Perpetual Preferred Stock, Series C. The Series A dividend is $312.50 per preferred share, or $0.3125 per depositary share. The Series C dividend is $296.875 per preferred share, or $0.296875 per depositary share.
Dividends on the common stock and Series A and Series C preferred stock are payable on August 3, 2026, to stockholders of record of the respective shares at the close of business on July 10, 2026.
To automatically receive AT&T financial news by email, please subscribe to email alerts.
About AT&T
We help more than 100 million U.S. families, friends and neighbors, plus nearly 2.5 million businesses, connect to greater possibility. From the first phone call 150 years ago to our 5G wireless and multi-gig internet offerings today, we @ATT innovate to improve lives. For more information about AT&T Inc. (NYSE:T), please visit us at about.att.com. Investors can learn more at investors.att.com.
Kalifornský regulátor vyzval soud i FCC, aby zamítly žádost AT&T o ukončení nabídky tradiční měděné telefonní služby novým zákazníkům. Spor se týká povinnosti udržovat základní službu na staré měděné síti.
The AT&T is displayed on the facade of one of its branches in Mexico City, Mexico September 10, 2025. REUTERS/Henry Romero Purchase Licensing Rights, opens new tab
WASHINGTON, June 18 (Reuters) - A California agency said on Thursday it has asked a U.S. court and the Federal Communications Commission to reject AT&T's (T.N), opens new tab request to stop offering traditional copper wire phone service to new customers.
The California Public Utilities Commission said AT&T was trying to get out of its obligations as a carrier of last resort and to ensure basic service.
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The state agency said in a court filing its rules "are explicitly technology-neutral; it does not matter whether the carrier uses copper wire, wireless, Voice over Internet Protocol, or any other type of technology, so long as it meets the standard for 'basic service.'"
California requires the U.S. wireless carrier to spend $1 billion annually to maintain a century-old telephone network that few use, AT&T said, adding the network now serves just 3% of households in AT&T’s California territory.
"Although AT&T asserts that every customer affected by its
proposed discontinuances will have access to replacement services, it does not adequately demonstrate that to be true," the CPUC said.
AT&T declined to comment on the CPUC filings.
AT&T asked the FCC for permission to discontinue traditional phone service in parts of California where it has faster, more reliable service available. It also filed a petition with the FCC to declare that federal standards preempt California’s rules that effectively require AT&T to power, repair and sell traditional phone service, even after the FCC has authorized the service to be phased out.
California said AT&T wants to discontinue residential and business telephone service provided over legacy copper-based telephone network landlines across portions of the 360 wire centers in California effective in June 2027. AT&T says the 360 wire centers affect approximately 184,000 residential customers and 15,000 business customers.
The state said it is currently considering updates to California’s Carrier of Last Resort rules but added the goal of modernized networks cannot "override our obligation to protect California’s most vulnerable citizens, many of whom still rely on the functionality that AT&T’s wireline network provides."
Reporting by David Shepardson, Editing by Franklin Paul and David Gregorio
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