If you’ve been a fan of Mint Mobile – the independent US-based mobile provider – you’re either thrilled or quite disappointed to hear the news that they’ve been bought out by major telecom, T-Mobile.
It’s bittersweet because, on one hand, Mint Mobile’s acquisition means $1.35 billion in cash, which is success any way you look at it. However, a lot of Mint Mobile’s fans feel a little betrayed that their smaller and independent mobile provider is being sold to the competition.
For years, Mint Mobile had been a reliable and cost-efficient provider with great customer service and plenty of potential for growth. After T-Mobile’s parent company, Deutsche Telekom, acquired $3.3 billion in spectrumholdings from the US Department of Justice, the company set its sights on Mint’s unique and valuable customer base.
T-Mobile CEO Mike Sievert spoke of the decision to buy out Mint Mobile as a “smart, strategic move.” Sievert was quick to point out that Mint Mobile operations will remain completely independent, with no subsidy from T-Mobile.
That may be comforting to some, but a lot of Mint Mobile customers are concerned that their entire mobile experience will change drastically once T-Mobile takes over. Not to mention that the pricing could increase dramatically, which could hurt their wallets.
Naturally, there’s a wide spectrum of reactions to the news. Actual Mint Mobile customers have taken to social media to express their frustration, and some have even gone so far as to commit to a collective boycott. Other customers are thrilled and already anticipating the changes that are expected to come with the acquisition. Only time will tell how the rest of Mint Mobile’s fans will adjust, but it’s clear this move will leave a lasting impression on the mobile landscape.
It’s a hilariously sad moment for independent mobile providers, who will no doubt find it increasingly difficult to compete with the major telecom giants. But for Mint Mobile, the future is looking a lot brighter.