Important notice from T-Mobile and Verizon to millions of Americans: be very careful

If you are a customer of T-Mobile or Verizon and are thinking about switching companies, there is something you should know before making a decision. Many users dissatisfied with their current operator are looking for more economical and flexible alternatives. That's why they choose to switch to an MVNO, that is, a Mobile Virtual Network Operator.

These operators do not have their own network and rely on large companies like T-Mobile, Verizon, or AT&T to offer their services. But what many do not know is that, in reality, some of these smaller brands also belong to the big ones.

This means that, although you think you are leaving one of the big companies, you could still be within their ecosystem without realizing it. For example, in April 2024, T-Mobile bought Ka’ena, the parent company of Mint Mobile and Ultra Mobile.

The same happened before with Verizon, which acquired TracFone in 2021. Years ago, in 2014, AT&T bought Cricket Wireless. All these are examples of MVNOs that are now part of the big operators.

So, by switching to one of these brands thinking you are moving away from the giants, you could be returning to them through another door.

T-Mobile and Verizon strengthened by these supports

Moreover, this type of acquisition makes it more difficult for truly independent MVNOs to compete. A clear example is MobileX, a mobile virtual network operator that uses Verizon's network. Its CEO, Peter Adderton, recently stated that it is increasingly difficult to stand out in the market due to the concentration of the sector.

MobileX, however, tries to attract new users with innovative ideas. One of them is the use of artificial intelligence to help customers pay only for the data they actually use. The company has reported that its cancellation rate is 1%, below the industry average of 4%.

Meanwhile, the big operators like T-Mobile and Verizon continue to gain ground thanks to their resources and advertising campaigns. However, more and more customers are looking for different options due to rising prices. In fact, companies like Charter have recently surpassed the big three in growth.

Therefore, if you are thinking about leaving T-Mobile or Verizon, make sure to inform yourself well before making a decision. Not all MVNOs are independent, and you could end up in the hands of the same business group you wanted to leave. Thorough research can help you find an option that better suits your needs.