UScellular Receives FCC Approval for T-Mobile Sale, Restructuring Move to Optimize Operations and Assets.

UScellular has received FCC approval to sell its wireless operations and select spectrum assets to T-Mobile, marking a major restructuring move for the company. UScellular serves 4.4 million retail connections across 21 states and retains a workforce of 4,100 associates, with its parent company Telephone and Data Systems owning approximately 83% of its shares. The transaction is set to proceed to closing upon meeting all remaining conditions.

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has approved T-Mobile US Inc.'s acquisition of US Cellular Corp's wireless operations and select spectrum assets. This transaction, subject to the satisfaction of all closing conditions, marks a significant restructuring move for US Cellular and T-Mobile. US Cellular, which serves 4.4 million customers in 21 states, has been owned by Telephone and Data Systems, Inc. (TDS) [1].

The FCC's approval comes after the Department of Justice (DOJ) closed its investigation into the proposed transaction, indicating that it believed US Cellular's smaller size would eventually have led to its demise without the deal [2]. The DOJ expressed concern about the potential effects of the transaction on competition and the availability of wireless spectrum [1]. However, it did not block the transaction, allowing it to proceed.

T-Mobile US, already the largest wireless carrier in the US, will gain 4.4 million more customers and approximately a third of US Cellular's spectrum licenses through this deal [1]. This acquisition is expected to enhance T-Mobile's market position and competitive capabilities, as it will integrate US Cellular's operations and provide its customers with improved network quality and services [2].

The transaction is subject to regulatory approval and the satisfaction of all closing conditions. Once finalized, T-Mobile US will be positioned to offer its customers a more extensive range of wireless services and spectrum licenses. The potential impact on competition and market dynamics will be closely watched by industry stakeholders and regulatory bodies.

References:
[1] https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-07-11/fcc-greenlights-t-mobile-s-4-4-billion-us-cellular-acquisition
[2] https://www.ainvest.com/news/uscellular-receives-fcc-approval-wireless-operations-spectrum-sale-2507/