T-Mobile and Verizon face a new broadband rival

Two major U.S. wireless carriers, T-Mobile and Verizon, have experienced a surge in broadband customer additions in recent months, despite facing increasing competition. Research indicates that T-Mobile added approximately 520,000 broadband subscribers in Q2 2026, while Verizon added around 348,000 during the same period. Analyst Jeff Moore of Wave7 Research suggests that the duopoly between cable and telecommunications companies is weakening as these carriers face intensified competition from alternative providers offering more options, better availability, lower prices, and simplified service setups.

Cricket Wireless, owned by AT&T, has entered the broadband market with the launch of its 5G Home Internet service on September 16. The service offers unlimited data, a download speed of 90-300 Mbps, an upload speed of 8-30 Mbps, and a latency of 30-65 milliseconds. Pricing starts at $65 per month, with the option to bundle with Cricket Wireless for $75 per month.

Existing Cricket Wireless customers can add the service for $45 per month, with a $5 autopay discount applied. The service requires no installation appointments, allowing customers to set it up themselves using the myCricket Internet App.

Industry experts emphasize that consumers are increasingly seeking fast, reliable, and affordable internet options that are easy to understand and backed by trusted brands. Amidst the growing competition, the major U.S. carriers are revamping their internet offerings, with AT&T launching its OneConnect plan and T-Mobile refreshing its fiber internet offerings.

These moves reflect the industry's focus on providing greater value and affordability in response to rising consumer price sensitivity and dissatisfaction with traditional internet service providers.