Reports indicate T-Mobile has become the top wireless carrier.

According to Roger Entner, Analyst and Founder at Recon Analytics, T-Mobile is now the leading consumer carrier in the U.S. If Verizon, under Dan Schulman, doesn't make significant changes, T-Mobile is expected to become the top carrier in total subscribers by the close of 2026.

Roger Entner, Analyst and Founder at Recon Analytics, November 2025

This shift was anticipated as Verizon had been losing subscribers, while T-Mobile gained one million new subscribers in Q3 alone. The transition to T-Mobile was accelerated by their streamlined digital account creation.

Verizon is also pursuing a transformation through automation, which may lead to similar improvements soon.

This online transition will provide ease of use for new customers, similar to the ending of service contracts.

Carriers can no longer depend on obstacles to retain customers or utilize high-pressure tactics to push accessories or costly plans. They must now offer value and enable customers to make well-informed choices.

Schulman aims to reverse this trend, although immediate price reductions are not expected. With the company's 13,000 layoffs and the franchising of 179 stores, there could be financial flexibility to cut prices and regain lost customers.

Without such measures, T-Mobile is likely to continue its growth, making it increasingly difficult for Verizon to close the gap.

We have contacted T-Mobile for their input and will provide updates as necessary.

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