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MetroPCS is in talks with Deutsche Telekom to merge with T-Mobile USA. While no agreement has been reached, the two companies are in ongoing discussions. This acquisition would add a potential 9 million subscribers to T-Mobile USA’s user base. In a press release, the Dallas-based MetroPCS stated that they are in ongoing discussions to merge with the beleaguered fourth-place carrier:
MetroPCS today confirmed that it is in discussions with Deutsche Telekom regarding an agreement to combine T-Mobile USA and MetroPCS. There can be no assurances that any transaction will result from these discussions, and the Company does not intend to comment further unless and until an agreement is reached.
Acquiring MetroPCS would be of great material benefit to Deutsche Telekom. T-Mobile USA has struggled for years against Verizon, AT&T, and Sprint for subscribers. Last year, AT&T attempted to acquire T-Mobile, but withdrew their acquisition bid after the US government raised serious antitrust concerns. The acquisition of MetroPCS would shore up subscriber numbers for T-Mobile. Additionally, MetroPCS already has an active LTE network, which would greatly supplement T-Mobile’s own efforts, set to begin their rollout in early 2013.
Unlike T-Mobile’s failed merger attempts with AT&T, joining forces with Metro PCS wouldn’t give T-Mobile the one other thing they’re still sorely lacking — the iPhone, though it could better position them to try and strike a deal with Apple in the future.
Until then, merger or no merger, when it comes to T-Mobile it’ll remain bring-your-own- iPhone.
Source: PR Newswire
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