AT&T announced that it has completed the deployment of EchoStar’s 3.45 GHz mid‑band spectrum across nearly 23,000 cell sites, a rollout that the company describes as record‑fast. The new spectrum is expected to lift mobile download speeds by up to 80 % and increase AT&T Internet Air speeds by 55 %, underscoring the high performance of the 3.45 GHz band for 5G coverage and capacity.
The spectrum was acquired in a $23 billion deal announced on August 26 2025, a transaction that gave EchoStar a substantial cash infusion and resolved long‑standing FCC spectrum‑utilization concerns. For EchoStar, the sale marks a strategic shift from a facilities‑based carrier to a hybrid MNO model that leverages AT&T’s infrastructure while retaining its own 5G core. The deal also provides a new, stable revenue stream that supports EchoStar’s financial stability.
For AT&T, the integration strengthens its competitive position against Verizon and T‑Mobile by expanding 5G coverage and capacity. The mid‑band spectrum also supports AT&T’s converged customer strategy, enabling bundled 5G wireless and home‑internet services that can increase customer lifetime value and reduce churn. Additionally, the deployment enhances FirstNet, the public‑safety network, by improving coverage and reliability for first responders.
Management highlighted the operational impact of the deployment. Chief Operating Officer Jeff McElfresh said the spectrum “is already delivering faster speeds for customers and gives AT&T a runway to expand Internet Air availability.” Chairman and CEO John Stankey noted that the acquisition “bolsters and expands our spectrum portfolio while enhancing customers’ 5G and home‑internet experience in more markets.” EchoStar’s co‑founder Charlie Ergen praised the sale as a critical step toward resolving FCC concerns and stabilizing the company’s business model.
Investors reacted positively to the spectrum deal, with EchoStar’s financial position improving markedly and AT&T’s strategic investment being viewed as a long‑term competitive advantage. The deployment announcement reinforced confidence in AT&T’s network strategy, while EchoStar’s new revenue stream and regulatory compliance were seen as key tailwinds for the company’s future growth.
The rapid deployment demonstrates AT&T’s ability to accelerate network upgrades and deliver tangible performance gains to customers. By securing high‑quality mid‑band spectrum, AT&T positions itself to capture a larger share of the 5G market and to support its broader converged services strategy, while EchoStar benefits from a stable cash flow and a clearer regulatory path. Together, the partnership signals a significant shift in the U.S. 5G landscape, with both companies poised to capitalize on the growing demand for high‑speed, reliable connectivity.
The content on BeyondSPX is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial or investment advice. We are not financial advisors. Consult with a qualified professional before making any investment decisions. Any actions you take based on information from this site are solely at your own risk.