T-Mobile Disputes AT&T, Verizon Spectrum Screen Arguments

T-Mobile fired back at AT&T and Verizon for suggesting its spectrum holdings should be subject to the FCC spectrum screen relative to the C-band auction (see 2009180029). “Incredibly, last week the two behemoths, who dwarf T-Mobile in revenues and market cap, actually teamed up to petition the government to thwart T-Mobile’s competitive access to wireless spectrum,” blogged CEO Mike Sievert Tuesday. “AT&T and Verizon are facing real competition from a company that is committed to shaking up the status quo and bringing true choice to consumers.” T-Mobile said in a filing that neither has the standing to challenge its 600 MHz leases. “Verizon sat out the 600 MHz spectrum auction and AT&T sold its 600 MHz licenses to Columbia Capital,” T-Mobile said: “Their efforts to raise spectrum screen issues concerning T-Mobile’s acquisition of spectrum going forward are not really about the Columbia Capital leases or protecting the mobile wireless marketplace from excessive spectrum aggregation. Rather, they are efforts to slow down T-Mobile as a competitor and to game the upcoming C-band auction.” AT&T and Verizon didn't comment.