More customers are choosing smaller mobile carriers instead of the big three (AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon).
Cable's wireless takeover has begun, but does that make it the fourth carrier?
FCC Chairman Brendan Carr stated in September 2025 that cable companies are gaining a larger proportion of new mobile wireless subscribers compared to mobile wireless companies.
EchoStar's Boost Mobile will continue to operate, but now through a hybrid MNO agreement, which weakens its ability to compete against the top three carriers.
Cable companies, acting as Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) by leasing network access from MNOs, are positioned to disrupt the market. As MNO customers become dissatisfied, cable companies are emerging as viable alternatives.
However, with EchoStar's diminished role and the Big 3's spectrum dominance, they hold significant leverage. Recon Analytics' Roger Entner notes that the FCC and DOJ have historically considered a four-carrier market essential for competition.
Although cable companies are popular among new subscribers, the Big 3 still control over 90% of subscriptions.
FCC Chairman Brendan Carr stated in September 2025 that cable companies are gaining a larger proportion of new mobile wireless subscribers compared to mobile wireless companies.
FCC Chairman Brendan Carr stated that cable companies are gaining a larger proportion of new mobile wireless subscribers compared to mobile wireless companies.
MobileX Founder & CEO Peter Adderton notes that wireless service complements cable companies' primary broadband business, as they pursue converged customers. Mobile customers are less profitable for them because MNOs also benefit, so their gains ultimately benefit MNOs.
In conclusion, cable companies provide an alternative for customers dissatisfied with AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon, but the fourth carrier no longer exists.