Washington — Sprint and T-Mobile announced plans to merge Sunday. The third and fourth largest mobile phone carriers said the merger would help them compete with the two largest companies AT&T and Verizon.
The Computer & Communications Industry Association has been a voice for greater competition within the technology industry since it was founded in 1972. Both Sprint and T-Mobile are members of CCIA. The following can be attributed to CCIA President & CEO Ed Black:
“For too many years two powerful companies have dominated much of the mobile phone market. Thankfully in recent years both Sprint and T-Mobile have improved the market by offering innovative and alternative mobile phone deals to consumers. This competition has served consumers well and the key question which must be addressed is whether this merger will result in a more or less competitive market and allow consumers better choices. It is thus very important that an in depth review of this merger be undertaken by the appropriate government agencies.
“While the combination of the third and fourth largest companies should be expected to receive great scrutiny, historical, unique, and important aspects of this market make such review imperative. Whether the merger will result in a market with a stronger third company continuing to put competitive pressure on its two large rivals, or a less dynamic market, the merger proposal will need to be the focus of analysis. Along with the regulators we look forward to seeing more details about the proposal in the coming months, and expect to review the justifications and arguments pro and con with great care.”
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