Telecom news: Data Traffic of US Wireless Operators, AT&T, Ribbon Communications, TNS

AT&T is partnering with LifeMD to waive its $19 monthly membership fee for over 100 million wireless and fiber customers, making it the first carrier to bundle no-cost virtual healthcare access. The rollout begins in 11 states, with the rest following in January 2027. LifeMD (LFMD) provides telehealth services, and AT&T aims to enhance customer retention. AT&T's stock is valued at $29.03 per share, with projected slight earnings declines due to heavy capital spending.

AT&T (T) is expanding fiber to 8 million new locations, with $23B-$24B capital investment expected in 2026. It reports blended subscriber growth and positions its network for AI traffic. Management highlights strong EBITDA margins and revenue growth, raising buybacks to $10B. The stock is down 7% year-to-date but up 36% over two years.

AT&T has partnered with Amazon's Leo satellite division to offer satellite internet to business customers, combining fiber, 5G, and satellite connectivity. Amazon Leo is developing its satellite network, currently with 315 operational satellites, aiming for commercial service this year. SpaceX's Starlink has 11,124 working satellites. Amazon plans to expand its constellation and has partnerships with Delta and JetBlue, and an agreement with Apple for future smartphone connectivity.

AT&T and Amazon Leo have partnered to offer broadband services to AT&T Business customers, combining Amazon Leo's satellite services with AT&T's fiber and 5G networks. This agreement aims to provide resilient, managed connectivity solutions for enterprise and public sector customers, with phased deployment for reliability. Details on pricing and availability will be announced later.

A surge in cellular phone service prices contributed to a higher-than-expected US inflation rate, likely influencing the Federal Reserve's decision to raise interest rates. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the consumer price index excluding food and energy rose 0.3% in August, driven partly by a 5.9% increase in wireless telephone services. Economists attribute this to price changes by major carriers like AT&T and T-Mobile.

Wells Fargo analyst Steven Cahall predicts SpaceX's wireless push will pressure telcos like AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile, while tower REITs and cable operators may benefit. SpaceX's Q2 revenue grew 66% YoY to $4.29B, and it gained 65MHz of EchoStar's spectrum. Tower REITs like American Tower, Crown Castle, and SBA Communications could see steady income, while Charter and Comcast may profit from Wi-Fi offload.