Verizon Wins FCC Approval for $20 Billion Frontier Merger: What This Means for Fiber

The FCC has signed off on the $20 billion Verizon and Frontier Communications merger. This federal agency approval will allow Verizon to significantly expand its fiber reach and subscriber base, which is presently limited primarily to the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast. By updating and expanding Frontier's existing network in 25 states, Verizon will not only bring fiber to more communities, but could potentially match or surpass its internet competitor, AT&T fiber. The merger is also expected to speed the transition from copper line networks to high-speed options. New fiber optic service through Verizon will primarily center around the Midwest, although coverage will reach California, Texas and Florida. Frontier customers will join Verizon's offerings. However, we're unsure how that will look, given that Frontier Fiber and Verizon Fios plans vary in speed and pricing. Locating local internet providers "The transaction will unleash billions of dollars in new infrastructure builds in com ... Read full article.