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FCC approves Verizon’s cable spectrum purchase

Updated Dec 19th, 2018 8:33PM EST
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The Federal Communications Commission on Thursday officially approved Verizon Wireless’ $39 billion deal to acquire AWS spectrum licenses from a consortium of cable companies. The Commission also signed off on a spectrum swap with Leap Wireless (LEAP) and an additional transaction that will see a number of AWS holdings transferred to T-Mobile. According to the FCC’s press release, Verizon (VZ) must complete its spectrum transfer with T-Mobile within 45 days of closing the deal with the cable companies. The carrier must also provide service to 30% of the areas covered by its newly acquired spectrum within three years, and 70% of the areas covered within seven years. Lastly, Verizon will have to continue to offer roaming agreements for five years in areas where it is acquiring the AWS spectrum.

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Dan joins the BGR team as the Android Editor, covering all things relating to Google’s premiere operating system. His work has appeared on Fox News, Fox Business and Yahoo News, among other publications. When he isn’t testing the latest devices or apps, he can be found enjoying the sights and sounds of New York City.