The merger between wireless giants T-Mobile and Sprint has cleared a major hurdle as a federal judge ruled in favor of the deal, the companies announced today.
The court rejected an argument from a group of states that the merger would negatively impact consumer choices and substantially limit competition.
Judge OKs T-Mobile, Sprint Merger
T-Mobile’s acquisition of Sprint, which Clark.com covered two years ago when an agreement between the two companies was first announced, would leave three major players in the wireless carrier market:
Another company potentially benefiting from the merger is satellite TV company Dish Network, which will look to join the ranks of mobile carriers.
In making his ruling, the court said, “T-Mobile has redefined itself over the past decade as a maverick that has spurred the two largest players in its industry to make numerous pro-consumer changes. The proposed merger would allow the merged company to continue T-Mobile’s undeniably successful business strategy for the foreseeable future.”
What Does the Merger Mean for You?
T-Mobile says the merger will help bring about America’s first nationwide 5G network, with speeds five times faster than they currently are.
Money expert Clark Howard agrees with that assertion, saying, “On the good side, 5G and ultra-fast data networks will happen quicker.”
As for the loss of a major wireless provider, Clark warns it remains to be seen how pricing will be affected.
“We will lose the benefit of having four national wireless companies, which has meant higher prices in other countries that went from four providers to three,” Clark says, noting that that is contrary to what The New T-Mobile says will happen.
However, if Dish is successful in becoming a forth competitor, Clark says this “is going to be great.”
Now that the judge has upheld the merger, the California Public Utilities Commission still has to approve the deal before it becomes final, CNBC reports.
Meanwhile, are you in the market for a new cell phone plan? Check out our comprehensive cell phone guide!
