Telecom
Verizon outage disrupts voice and data services for millions
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A major outage hit Verizon's network on January 14, 2026, affecting voice calls and wireless data for customers across the United States. Users reported seeing 'SOS' on their phones instead of signal bars, with peak outage reports exceeding 180,000. Verizon acknowledged the issue and stated its engineers were working to resolve it quickly.
AT&T will increase prices by up to $20 per month on its retired unlimited wireless plans starting in April 2026. The change affects accounts with plans activated before July 24, 2025, but includes an extra 20GB of hotspot data. This follows the recent launch of new 2.0 unlimited plans.
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Hong Kong's CK Hutchison Holdings reported a 7% rise in underlying profit to HK$22.3 billion (US$2.85 billion) for last year, despite 'unforeseen challenges' including a legal conflict over Panama ports. Net profit fell 31% to HK$11.84 billion due to a one-time non-cash loss from the 3UK-Vodafone merger. Chairman Victor Li Tzar-kuoi highlighted the group's diversified business as a mitigating factor.
T-Mobile's Essentials Choice 55 plan offers the best value for seniors over 55, providing 5G access and 50GB of high-speed data at $45 per month for one line. Other carriers like AT&T and Verizon also provide discounted options, though with varying restrictions and features. These plans cater to older adults seeking cost-effective wireless services without unnecessary extras.
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The US Federal Communications Commission has repealed cybersecurity rules designed to prevent attacks similar to the Salt Typhoon incident. This decision means telecom firms face less stringent requirements for securing their networks. The change was announced on November 21, 2025.
Neobanks are venturing into telecommunications by considering their own mobile networks. This strategy aims to keep restless customers engaged within merged financial and mobile ecosystems. The trend could define the industry by 2026.
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French telecom operators Orange, Bouygues Telecom, and Free have submitted a joint non-binding offer to acquire a large part of Altice France's telecom activities, SFR's parent company, for 17 billion euros. This move represents a first step in the long-awaited consolidation of France's telecom sector. The decision now rests with Patrick Drahi, Altice's leader.