AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon are teaming up to eliminate coverage dead zones

AT&T, T-Mobile and Verizon have agreed to work together Within the framework of a new joint project It aims to end wireless dead zones in the United States. The partnership was announced today as an “agreement in principle,” but if finalized, the three carriers will pool their terrestrial spectrum resources together to increase coverage in rural areas.

The goal is to create “the best, most diverse ecosystem for wireless and satellite products and services,” though details on how that will be achieved are somewhat vague. There is reference to the project developing a unified technology standard for customers and satellite network operators, investing in satellite-based and direct-to-device (D2D) technologies to address coverage gaps and improve connectivity.

AT&T says in its press release that existing satellite carrier agreements will remain in place under this proposed joint venture. “Our goal is to make staying connected simple, no matter where you are — on a rural highway, in a national park, on a boat, or during an emergency,” AT&T CEO John Stankey said in a statement. “By joining with other carriers, we are bringing together our combined expertise to accelerate our customers’ access to reliable, durable coverage everywhere.”

The joint venture remains subject to closing conditions and negotiations between AT&T, T-Mobile and Verizon. But if this goes ahead, the outcome will theoretically be good for everyone. Customers should have access to stronger, more reliable connectivity in areas that struggle with cell phone service, and satellite services can more easily serve people in areas that traditional cellular networks cannot cover.