ATT Wireless


Sprint Nextel Corp. has filed a petition with the Federal Communications Commission, seeking to block AT&T Inc. and T-Mobile USA’s merger plans.
In this case, that means asking the FCC to reject parts of Dallas, Texas-based AT&T’s application to absorb T-Mobile’s U.S. spectrum licenses, which allow for mobile transmissions.
Sprint and other merger opponents contend that the acquisition would stifle competition and harm public interests, leaving AT&T (NYSE: T) and Verizon Wireless controlling more than 80 percent of the wireless markets.
AT&T announced early April the beginning of a push to establish 4G network coverage in North Carolina, starting in Charlotte and the Triangle. AT&T, with 2,000 Triad-area employees, ranks as the region’s largest telecommunications provider. In addition to its traditional telecom operations, it offers mobile services through dozens of retail stores and outlets. T- Mobile operates at least five corporate stores in the Triad and is sold at more than two-dozen other retail locations in the region. Verizon is sold through at nearly 50 locations across the Triad, including Verizon stores and independent retailers.