We don't usually give credit to carriers for new coverage until it actually happens and in this case we will add our usual dose of caution: we won't be using this new spectrum until we can get 600 MHz-capable phones. They're coming, and T-Mobile claims they'll start using their newly-acquired space later this year. Yes, this is possible, but to fully use this new spectrum, a few hundred TV stations have to move their on-air TV channels, which could take years. Also, 600 MHz isn't the best wireless coverage band, but it fits well into T-Mobile's spectrum portfolio even though it doesn't address those elusive "5G" needs. The part we like the most is what happened in several areas with their 700 MHz bands: coverage in rural America.
RELATED: T-Mobile Acquires More Good Spectrum
The next thing we have to endure are all the stories that will state that now T-Mobile becomes an even better takeover candidate, or merger partner with Sprint. Aw, c'mon. That honor belongs to Dish and Comcast, the other big 600 MHz auction winners.
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