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Miami Herald
a day ago
- Business
- Miami Herald
T-Mobile makes unexpected move to lure customers from competitors
It is no secret that many Americans across the country are frustrated with price increases. This trend has especially impacted home internet bills, as many internet providers have hiked prices for their services, causing consumers to make drastic decisions to save money. Don't miss the move: Subscribe to TheStreet's free daily newsletter According to a new survey from CNET, 63% of U.S. adults saw the monthly price of their home internet service increase last year. On average, they paid $195 more for internet service in 2024 than they did in 2023. Related: T-Mobile CEO has a harsh warning for customers Despite paying higher prices for internet, 51% of the respondents in the survey said they still experienced unreliable connectivity. These price hikes even pushed one in five U.S. adults to either downgrade their service, switch internet providers or cancel their service altogether. Many consumers have been flocking to providers such as T-Mobile (TMUS) , AT&T, and Verizon (VZ) , which all offer fixed wireless internet. This service provides internet access to remote or underserved areas at a price that's usually cheaper than traditional internet services. During the first quarter of 2025, T-Mobile added 424,000 new high-speed internet customers. This contributed to the company generating a net income of $3 billion, which is 24% higher than what it earned during the same quarter in 2024. Image source:As more consumers ditch traditional internet service providers such as Spectrum and Comcast for cheaper options, T-Mobile will launch its Fiber Home Internet service on June 5, which introduces three new fiber internet plans with five-year price-lock guarantees. This first plan is called Fiber 500, which is $75 per month with an autopay discount. T-Mobile says this plan is ideal for "everyday streamers, remote workers, and smaller households," according to a press release. For customers who have "busy households with multiple people streaming, gaming, and using smart devices at the same time," T-Mobile is offering a plan called Fiber 1 Gig, which is $90 a month with autopay. Related: T-Mobile pulls the plug on generous offer, angering customers For "high-demand" internet users who want a "top-tier speed," T-Mobile has introduced Fiber 2 Gig for $105 a month with, of course, an autopay discount. If customers want to shave $15 off the monthly price for each plan, they have the option to purchase and attach a T-Mobile voice line to it. In addition, T-Mobile also announced a limited-time Founders Club offer where customers in select locations can get a 2 Gig fiber internet plan for $70 a month with autopay activated. No voice line is required for this plan, and it comes with a 10-year price lock guarantee. "With the official launch of T-Mobile Fiber, we're delivering on our promise to bring better broadband to more people - the Un-carrier way," said Allan Samson, T-Mobile chief broadband officer in the press release. "Our new plans, backed by long-term price guarantees, are designed to give customers more choice and peace of mind." The move from T-Mobile comes after it officially acquired fiber-to-the-home provider Lumos in April to expand its fiber internet service. T-Mobile Fiber is now available to over 500,000 households across the nation. T-Mobile's announcement also comes after one of its top competitors, Verizon, received approval last month from the Federal Communications Commission to acquire Frontier Internet. This will accelerate the delivery of its mobility and broadband services to current and new customers. More Retail: Costco quietly plans to offer a convenient service for customersT-Mobile pulls the plug on generous offer, angering customersKellogg sounds alarm on unexpected shift in customer behavior The deal is set to expand Frontier's network in 25 states and deploy fiber internet to 1 million or more U.S. homes per year. "Frontier customers and those previously outside Verizon's fiber footprint are expected to gain more choice and access to Verizon's premium mobility, home internet, streaming and connected home offerings, alongside premium business products like Verizon Business Complete," said Verizon in a press release last year when it first announced the acquisition. Related: Verizon makes bold move to make it harder for customers to leave The Arena Media Brands, LLC THESTREET is a registered trademark of TheStreet, Inc.
Time of India
26-05-2025
- Business
- Time of India
HFCL expects 25-30% revenue growth in current fiscal: MD Mahendra Nahata
Domestic telecom gear HFCL expects 25-30% growth in revenue during the current fiscal on account of increase in order book and pick-up in demand, a top official of the company said. During the earnings call, HFCL 's managing director Mahendra Nahata said that the company's order book as of March 31, 2025, has increased to ₹9,967 crore from ₹7,685 crore as on March 31, 2024. "With strong order book, demand pick-up and full capacity utilization, the company expects growth of 25-30 per cent in revenue of the current financial year on an overall basis with major growth starting from the second quarter," Nahata said. He said that HFCL has become the first Indian company to develop and commercially launch 5G Fixed Wireless Access customer premises equipment -- a modem for providing wireless 5G connectivity for home broadband services. "In its very first year of launch, we have successfully despatched over 4 lakh units of this equipment, demonstrating strong market acceptance. With growing demand from telecom operators and ISPs, we expect to have continuous demand for such products. I am happy to inform you that in the last week we have received another order of ₹174 crores for this product," Nahata said. During the March 31, 2025 quarter, HFCL recorded about 39 per cent decline in revenue to ₹800.72 crore mainly on account of poor demand for optical fibre. Nahata said that after experiencing subdued demand for optical fibre cable over the past 6-7 quarters leading to lower capacity utilization, the company's optical fibre manufacturing has now begun operating at full capacity starting June 2026 quarter as against 45 per cent capacity utilisation during FY25. "Our Optical Fiber Cable manufacturing capacity utilization was also 40 per cent during last financial year. This will also start operating at full capacity by July 2025. With market conditions showing clear signs of recovery and new growth drivers such as 5G rollouts, data centre expansion, BharatNet Phase III execution , and rising export demand, our revenue from optic fibre cable during FY'26 is expected to improve significantly," Nahata said.
Yahoo
21-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Long Fiber Thermoplastics (LFT) Business Analysis Report 2025: Global Market to Reach $5.7 Billion by 2030 - Evolution of Advanced Thermoplastic Matrices Generates New Opportunities
Explore the dynamic growth of the Long Fiber Thermoplastics (LFT) market, projected to reach USD 5.7 billion by 2030, driven by technological advancements in polymer science and increased demand in automotive and aerospace sectors. Key trends include lightweighting, sustainability, and recyclability of materials. Detailed analysis covers resin and fiber types, applications, and regional markets including the U.S. and China. Discover how LFT continues to revolutionize industries with superior mechanical properties and environmental benefits. Long Fiber Thermoplastics (LFT) Market Dublin, May 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Long Fiber Thermoplastics (LFT) - Global Strategic Business Report" report has been added to global market for Long Fiber Thermoplastics (LFT) was valued at US$3.6 Billion in 2024 and is projected to reach US$5.7 Billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 8.1% from 2024 to 2030. This comprehensive report provides an in-depth analysis of market trends, drivers, and forecasts, helping you make informed business decisions. The report includes the most recent global tariff developments and how they impact the Long Fiber Thermoplastics (LFT) market. Long Fiber Thermoplastics (LFT) are a class of composite materials that combine the durability and strength of long glass or carbon fibers with the flexibility and ease of processing of thermoplastics. These materials are used in a variety of applications where high strength-to-weight ratios and enhanced mechanical properties are critical. The continuous fibers in LFTs, typically longer than 10 mm, are distributed throughout the thermoplastic matrix, providing improved impact resistance, stiffness, and strength compared to traditional short-fiber composites. Common thermoplastic matrices used in LFTs include polypropylene (PP), polyamide (PA), and polyetheretherketone (PEEK), each offering unique benefits depending on the application requirements. The production processes for LFTs, such as pultrusion and extrusion-compression molding, enable the creation of components with complex shapes and superior structural integrity, making them ideal for use in automotive, aerospace, industrial, and consumer goods trends are shaping the landscape of LFT materials, driven by technological advancements and evolving market demands. One significant trend is the growing emphasis on lightweighting in the automotive and aerospace industries. LFTs are increasingly being used to replace metals and heavier materials in components such as front-end modules, underbody shields, and interior parts, contributing to overall weight reduction and improved fuel efficiency. The push for sustainability and recyclability in materials is also propelling the development of LFTs made from recycled fibers and bio-based thermoplastics, aligning with global efforts to reduce carbon footprints and enhance environmental responsibility. Additionally, advancements in manufacturing technologies, such as hybrid molding and direct long fiber thermoplastic (DLFT) processes, are expanding the possibilities for LFT applications by improving production efficiency and material growth in the Long Fiber Thermoplastics (LFT) market is driven by several factors. Technological advancements in polymer science and composite manufacturing are enhancing the mechanical properties and processing capabilities of LFTs, making them more versatile and suitable for a wider range of applications. The increasing demand for lightweight, high-performance materials in the automotive and aerospace industries is a significant driver, as manufacturers seek to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. Consumer behavior trends towards durable and high-quality products are also contributing to the market expansion, as LFTs offer superior impact resistance and longevity. Additionally, the push for sustainability and the adoption of circular economy principles are encouraging the use of recycled and bio-based materials in LFT production. Government regulations aimed at reducing vehicle emissions and improving energy efficiency are further supporting the adoption of LFTs in various industries. The ongoing research and development efforts, along with strategic partnerships and collaborations in the industry, are expected to sustain the robust growth of the LFT market in the coming ScopeKey Insights: Market Growth: Understand the significant growth trajectory of the Polypropylene (PP) segment, which is expected to reach US$2.3 Billion by 2030 with a CAGR of a 9.1%. The Polyamide (PA) segment is also set to grow at 8.0% CAGR over the analysis period. Regional Analysis: Gain insights into the U.S. market, valued at $963.3 Million in 2024, and China, forecasted to grow at an impressive 11.8% CAGR to reach $1.3 Billion by 2030. Discover growth trends in other key regions, including Japan, Canada, Germany, and the Asia-Pacific. Report Features: Comprehensive Market Data: Independent analysis of annual sales and market forecasts in US$ Million from 2024 to 2030. In-Depth Regional Analysis: Detailed insights into key markets, including the U.S., China, Japan, Canada, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Middle East, and Africa. Company Profiles: Coverage of players such as Celanese Corporation, Daicel Polymer Limited, PlastiComp Inc., PolyOne Corporation, PPG Fiber Glass and more. Complimentary Updates: Receive free report updates for one year to keep you informed of the latest market developments. Segments: Resin Type (Polypropylene (PP), Polyamide (PA), Polyether Ether Ketone (PEEK), Polyphthalamide (PPA), Other Resin Types) Fiber Type (Glass Fiber, Carbon Fiber, Other Fiber Types) Application (Automotive, Aerospace, Electronics Appliances, Sports & Leisure, Other Applications) What's Included in This Edition: Tariff-adjusted market forecasts by region and segment Analysis of cost and supply chain implications by sourcing and trade exposure Strategic insights into geographic shifts Buyers receive a free July 2025 update with: Finalized tariff impacts and new trade agreement effects Updated projections reflecting global sourcing and cost shifts Expanded country-specific coverage across the industry Key Attributes: Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 178 Forecast Period 2024 - 2030 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2024 $3.6 Billion Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2030 $5.7 Billion Compound Annual Growth Rate 8.1% Regions Covered Global Key Topics Covered: MARKET OVERVIEW Influencer Market Insights Global Economic Update Long Fiber Thermoplastics (LFT) - Global Key Competitors Percentage Market Share in 2024 (E) Competitive Market Presence - Strong/Active/Niche/Trivial for Players Worldwide in 2024 (E) MARKET TRENDS & DRIVERS Increasing Demand for Lightweight Materials in Automotive Industry Propels Growth in LFT Market Advancements in Polymer Science Strengthen Business Case for LFT Applications Push for Sustainability and Recyclability Expands Addressable Market Opportunity for Bio-Based LFTs Growing Use of LFTs in Aerospace Industry Drives Adoption of High-Performance Composites Advancements in Manufacturing Technologies Spur Growth in LFT Production Efficiency Development of Hybrid Molding Techniques Enhance LFT Application Scope Regulatory Requirements for Vehicle Emissions Propel Adoption of Lightweight LFT Components Expansion of Industrial Applications Expands Addressable Market for LFT Materials Integration of Direct Long Fiber Thermoplastic (DLFT) Processes Drives Market Efficiency Demand for Fuel-Efficient Vehicles Boosts Use of LFTs in Weight Reduction Strategies Increasing Use of Carbon Fiber in LFTs Accelerates Demand for High-Strength Composites Evolution of Advanced Thermoplastic Matrices Generates New Opportunities for LFTs FOCUS ON SELECT PLAYERS:Some of the 12 companies featured in this Long Fiber Thermoplastics (LFT) market report include: Celanese Corporation Daicel Polymer Limited PlastiComp Inc. PolyOne Corporation PPG Fiber Glass RTP Company SABIC Solvay Sumitomo Chemical Co., Ltd. TechnoCompound GmbH For more information about this report visit About is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends. Attachment Long Fiber Thermoplastics (LFT) Market CONTACT: CONTACT: Laura Wood,Senior Press Manager press@ For E.S.T Office Hours Call 1-917-300-0470 For U.S./ CAN Toll Free Call 1-800-526-8630 For GMT Office Hours Call +353-1-416-8900Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Yahoo
12-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Frontier Fiber Internet Review: Plans, Pricing, Speed and Availability
Frontier Fiber, also known as Frontier Communications, is easily one of the top candidates among internet service providers that offer high-speed internet. With an impressive slew of multigig speeds, up to 7,000 megabits per second" target="_self, Frontier has no shortage of fast internet options. Plus, its symmetrical 500Mbps plan is one of CNET's top picks for the best internet deals available right now, with a $30 monthly plan. But before you sign up, there are important details you should know. Signing up for Frontier may mean dealing with its much slower and inconsistent DSL service, which doesn't offer the kind of value that you can get from its fiber tiers. Plus, Verizon announced in September 2024 that it plans to acquire Frontier in a $20 billion deal. The deal still has some regulatory hurdles to overcome and is expected to close in early 2026, but it's unclear how this will impact service or pricing. If you're a current or prospective Frontier customer, it's too early to say exactly how the acquisition will unfold. However, Frontier Fiber's current offerings will likely disappear once the deal is finalized, as Verizon has stated its intent for an 'immediate integration post-close with Verizon's best-in-class offerings.' If this is indeed the case, signing up for Frontier Fiber now with the hopes you can keep your price and plan once Verizon takes over is a solid move. Both fiber providers go above and beyond in terms of speeds, pricing and overall value, but Frontier Fiber currently offers more speed options and lower pricing compared to Verizon Fios. If I had my choice of the two, I'd go with Frontier, even if it means passing up Verizon's tempting promotions. See at Unknown Merchant The Fiber 500 plan, currently offered at $30 per month, is CNET's pick for one of the best internet deals available. That comes down to a very reasonable cost per Mbps of 6 cents. Frontier's fiber plans are as good a value as you'll find from nearly any provider. The plan has a lower starting price point than many fiber ISPs -- AT&T and Verizon included -- while still delivering plenty of speed. Frontier Fiber offers six plans with speeds ranging from 200 megabits per second to 7,000Mbps, or 7 gigabits per second. Many markets only have access to the 5Gbps speed tier as the top-end plan. You'll notice a significant speed jump from one Fiber plan to the next, making it easier to find the right plan for your needs. In most markets, pricing on all Frontier Fiber plans is month to month, so there are no set price increases. Some areas, such as Charleston, South Carolina, West Virginia and Tampa, Florida, may have lower introductory pricing on select plans good for 12 months, after which the price increases to the standard (but still comparatively low) price. Fiber 200: Best for one to three users, up to 10 devices. Good for apartments and smaller households with a limited number of devices used for streaming or working from home. Fiber 500Mbps: Best for three to five users, up to 20 devices. Good for moderate use, such as streaming on multiple TVs at once, working from home and connecting smart speakers and security cameras. Fiber 1 Gig: Best for five to six users, 20 to 30 devices. Good for heavier use, including streaming in 4K, serious online gaming and connecting multiple devices per room. I have 1 gigabit internet (not from Frontier) and it exceeds my daily needs. Fiber 2 Gig: Best for six to 10 users, 30 or more devices. Good for larger households with multiple users working or learning from home and streaming on separate devices. Ideal for an arsenal of smart home devices, from gaming consoles and TVs to speakers and cameras. Fiber 5 Gig: Best for a virtually unlimited number of devices and uses. An uncompromisingly fast connection to satisfy any home. Fiber 7 Gig: Best for larger homes and a virtually unlimited number of devices and uses. These speeds optimize your experience for 4K streaming and online gaming. While the idea of high-speed internet is generally popular among home internet users, the average US household may not even need that much speed. According to the latest OpenVault report, the average household only uses around 569Mbps in download speed. In other words, you may not even need to sign up for a gigabit or multi-gigabit service. Read our comprehensive guide and check how much speed your household needs. Frontier Communications is one of the nation's largest internet providers, serving 25 states from Connecticut to California, with a strong presence in the Midwest and Northeast. Until recently, Frontier Fiber was reserved for parts of California, Florida, Indiana and Texas. Thanks to recent fiber-optic expansions, the service is now available in 17 states and growing. Last year, the company received over $23 million in Federal Funding grants, expanding its fiber service to underserved communities in San Bernadino and Riverside counties in California. Although availability is still somewhat limited, Frontier has acknowledged the need for more significant fiber expansion and plans to extend service to more areas in the near future. "Frontier is targeting substantial fiber upgrades over the next several years to locations in and near Frontier's footprint," a spokesperson said. But we'll have to wait to see what Verizon's acquisition of Frontier Fiber means for those fiber expansion plans. Regardless of the Frontier Fiber plan you choose, service comes with free equipment rental and unlimited data at no extra cost. Frontier offers an Amazon Eero Pro 7, a Wi-Fi 7" target="_self router, for the 500Mbps and 1- and 2-gig plans. That's a pretty good deal considering the Eero Pro 7 sells for $300 and boasts impressive performance. Just note that to take advantage of the router's Wi-Fi 7 capability, you'll need a Wi-Fi 7-compatible device. If you upgrade to the 5- or 7-gig plans, you'll get an Eero Max 7, one of the fastest routers we've tested, which retails at nearly $600. If you're opting for the 200Mbps plan, you'll get an Eero Pro 6e router; all DSL plans come with an Eero 6 router. Frontier also offers an upgrade to whole-home Wi-Fi, a package that includes two mesh Wi-Fi devices for an additional $10 or $30 a month if you opt for the Whole Home Wi-Fi Plus option. I'd recommend starting with the free rental, then upgrading to whole-home Wi-Fi if you notice any areas with a slow or spotty connection. Upgrading to mesh Wi-Fi is an option if you want it later, and the $10 monthly fee is lower than many providers charge for simply renting a router. There is typically no contract, although Frontier internet is not totally contract-free. Accepting a signup bonus, like a free gift card, will come with a term agreement. If you don't want that, simply decline any special offers when you sign up. Best Wi-Fi Routers for May 2025 See at CNET If your address is only serviceable for DSL, you may want to also explore other rural internet alternatives such as Starlink or 5G home internet. I'm not saying Frontier's DSL service is bad, but I wouldn't recommend DSL internet from any provider. With Frontier Internet -- that's the DSL service -- customers have one plan option starting at $65 monthly for the fastest speeds available to your address. That's typical for a DSL provider, but Frontier doesn't advertise speeds for its DSL service at all, so there's no telling what speeds you'll get until you sign up. I can temper your expectations a bit. Recent Federal Communications Commission data shows that a little over 4% of the country is eligible for DSL broadband speeds of 100Mbps down and 20Mbps up. As a DSL provider, Frontier may be a viable home internet option in rural areas, depending on the speeds you can get. As a fiber internet provider, Frontier's pricing and service terms are as good as any and better than most. In all likelihood, you won't have the option of other DSL or fiber providers in Frontier service areas. Competing internet providers of the same technology typically avoid offering internet to the same address. You will find cable internet providers such as Spectrum or Xfinity available in many of the same areas as Frontier. Cable internet providers in Frontier service areas include Mediacom, Optimum, Spectrum and Xfinity. Compared with cable internet, Frontier Internet (DSL) is slower and more expensive, especially considering the cost per Mbps. Most cable internet providers offer gigabit download speeds whereas Frontier Internet will come nowhere close to that. Cable internet plans can reach $100 a month or higher, and the speeds you get for the price are likely to be a much better value. However, if you're comparing cable internet with Frontier's fiber offerings, fiber is a much more cost-efficient option. For example, Frontier Fiber has pricing similar to Xfinity's cable internet plans on comparable speed tiers -- both providers offer gigabit service starting at or around $70 per month, for instance -- but you'll get faster upload speeds and unlimited data with Frontier Fiber. Ultimately, if Frontier Fiber is available in your area, I'd recommend it over cable internet service, especially if you're considering the higher 500Mbps or gigabit speed tiers. The pricing is likely to be on par with or lower than similar tiers from a cable provider, and the straightforward pricing and unlimited data give Frontier Fiber an advantage over most providers in general. If you want to learn more, read our review on cable vs. fiber. Customer satisfaction scores are never pretty for cable and internet providers, but Frontier's were downright ugly for a while. When the American Customer Satisfaction Index began separating fiber from non-fiber providers last year, the source of Frontier's low scores became apparent. Frontier Fiber received a 74 out of 100 in 2023, while Frontier Internet, the DSL service, came in at 61. In the most recent ACSI report, Frontier Fiber continued to improve, earning a 76 out of 100, tying the industry average and scores from competing fiber ISPs Quantum Fiber and Google Fiber. There's room for further improvement, but at least the ISP seems to be moving in the right direction. According to the latest survey data from J.D. Power's 2024, Frontier nabbed a score of 481 in the East-- putting it behind cable internet providers Spectrum and Xfinity. In the West and South, however, Frontier fared much better, scoring above the industry averages and staying in second place overall. Still, it's important to note that J.D. Power separates ISPs based on wireless or wired services -- Frontier's DSL services likely contributed to its low scores. Despite progress on the fiber side of Frontier, DSL customer satisfaction levels recorded by the American Customer Satisfaction Index fell from 61 in 2023 to 59 in 2024. Only Kinetic by Windstream had a lower score (56). Given the technology type, the low score is understandable. Again, I wouldn't typically recommend DSL internet from any provider due to the slow, spotty speeds. Frontier is worth considering if you can overlook the low customer satisfaction record and slow DSL speeds, especially if fiber service is available. Frontier Fiber internet offers speeds and pricing comparable to or lower than many other top providers, and the fast upload speeds and reliability of fiber internet give it an edge over cable internet service. Depending on the available speeds, Frontier's DSL-based service could be the best internet option in rural areas where satellite is the only other way to connect. Reports of slow service may make you want to give satellite internet another look. Starting at $30 per month, Frontier Fiber's 500Mbps plan offers plenty of speed for streaming, gaming and browsing the web on multiple devices at once. It also comes with unlimited data and no additional equipment costs. The fastest Frontier Fiber plan, Frontier 7 Gig, is available in select markets and arguably the best deal if you don't mind paying $200 for internet each month. At under 3 cents per Mbps, this plan offers the lowest cost per Mbps of any Frontier Fiber option. A fiber connection like the one you get with Frontier Fiber is excellent for gaming. Not only are speeds fast enough to support intense gaming on multiple devices, but the low latency makes for a smooth connection with less lagging. For a smooth online gaming experience, latency should be around 50ms or lower. According to Frontier's broadband labels, its fiber plans advertise a latency of 6ms, making it an ideal option for gaming. Keep in mind that fully resetting your router will likely return it to factory settings and potentially delete any custom settings. If you just want to reboot your Frontier router to remedy slowed speeds or a spotty connection, you can do so by unplugging the device and plugging it back in after 10 seconds. This will avoid a factory reset and help to save your custom settings. To learn more, read our guide on how to reset your equipment and avoid internet issues. If you're certain you want to fully reset your Frontier router, locate the reset button on the back of the device and use a small instrument such as a paperclip to press and hold the button for 10 seconds. If you're still stuck, you can also check out Frontier's guide to restarting your router.
Yahoo
25-04-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
AT&T's response to a growing threat spells trouble for customers
AT&T () managed to grasp increased momentum from consumers during the first few months of this year, despite recently scaling back a crucial discount. In its first-quarter earnings report for 2025, AT&T revealed that it generated a net income of $4.7 billion during the quarter, which is 19% higher than what it earned during the same quarter in 2024. 💵💰Don't miss the move: Subscribe to TheStreet's free daily newsletter 💰💵 AT&T also added 324,000 new postpaid phone customers and 261,000 new Fiber internet customers during the first few months of the results come after AT&T quietly warned customers last month that starting on April 24, their autopay discount will decrease from $10 to $5 if they pay their monthly bill with a debit card. This move frustrated customers, with some even threatening to switch phone providers. While AT&T is facing increased profits, the phone carrier is sounding the alarm on the potential impact of a growing threat. On April 2, President Donald Trump raised eyebrows across the nation when he announced a 10% "baseline" tariff on all countries importing goods to the U.S., with roughly 60 countries seeing higher tariff rates. Tariffs are taxes companies pay to import goods from overseas, and the extra cost is often passed down to consumers through price hikes. However, on April 9, he switched gears and enforced a 90-day pause on reciprocal tariffs on all countries (except China), dropping them to a universal rate of 10%. He also unexpectedly hiked tariffs on China to 145%.During an earnings call on April 23, AT&T CEO John Stankey said that tariffs can have a negative impact on a number of devices the company sells. 'The announced tariffs could potentially increase the cost of smartphones and other devices, as well as the cost of network and technical equipment,' said Stankey. 'The magnitude of any increase will depend on a variety of factors, including how much of the tariffs our vendors pass on, and the impact that the tariffs have on consumer and business demand.' He also warned that AT&T may have to hike prices for its devices due to Trump's tariffs. More Retail: AT&T quietly issues stern warning to customers Sam's Club makes a big change to a beloved membership perk GameStop announces risky move amid store closures 'So I think that if ultimately costs are passed to us from those that we buy handsets from, unfortunately for the customer, we're going to have to come up with some new ways for them to figure out how to digest that increase in pricing,' said Stankey. AT&T is already noticing an increased number of customers upgrading their phones amid anxiety about Trump's tariffs inflating prices in the next several months. 'Upgrades have trended higher than expected since the announcement of the reciprocal tariffs in early April, which we believe triggered an acceleration in consumer upgrade behavior,' said AT&T Chief Financial Officer Pascal Duroche during the call. AT&T's warning about potentially raising its prices for devices follows in the footsteps of Verizon () , which issued the same warning about passing down tariff costs to customers during an earnings call on April 22. 'If we're going to see those type of increases on handsets that we've heard, we are not planning to absorb those,' said Verizon CEO Hans Vestberg during the earnings call. 'I mean, that needs to be passed onto the customers. That's the only way to do it because that's so much money.' Unlike AT&T, Verizon has recently been noticing fewer customers opting to upgrade their phones. 'Customers continue by choice to hang on to their phones for longer periods of time,' said Verizon Chief Financial Officer Tony Skiadas during a Morgan Stanley conference last month. 'The average upgrade cycle for us is up over 40 months. It's like 42 months right now. So the phones are made better. And from our standpoint, we'll continue to be disciplined in our approach to retention.' According to a survey from CNET in March, 33% of U.S. adults have felt pressured to make tech purchases due to fear of potential price hikes from tariffs, while one in five adults has already made a in to access your portfolio
