In a major move to bolster its broadband infrastructure, AT&T announced on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, that it has agreed to acquire the Mass Markets fiber business of Lumen Technologies, CenturyLink’s parent company, for $5.75 billion. The deal, which includes approximately 1 million fiber subscribers and over 4 million fiber locations across 11 states, positions AT&T to significantly expand its fiber internet footprint and solidify its position as a leader in U.S. broadband connectivity. However, the transaction requires regulatory approval and is not expected to close until the first half of 2026, meaning customers and communities will see no immediate changes.
The acquisition encompasses Lumen’s consumer and small business fiber operations, which will transition to AT&T Fiber Internet services upon completion. This strategic move will extend AT&T Fiber’s reach to major metropolitan areas, including Denver, Las Vegas, Minneapolis-St. Paul, Orlando, Phoenix, Portland, Salt Lake City, and Seattle. AT&T projects that the deal will enable it to roughly double its fiber locations, aiming to serve approximately 60 million locations by the end of 2030. This expansion aligns with AT&T’s broader goal of bridging the digital divide and delivering high-speed, reliable internet to more Americans.
“We’re leading the race to connect more Americans with fiber, the best broadband connectivity technology available,” said John Stankey, Chairman and CEO of AT&T. “This deal with Lumen represents a significant investment in U.S. connectivity infrastructure that will create jobs and spur economic activity in numerous regions and major metro areas across 11 states.”
For consumers, the deal means little right now as it will be some time before something changes. The deal must undergo a rigorous review by the Department of Justice (DOJ) and meet other customary closing conditions, a process that could take up to a year. Until the acquisition is finalized, Lumen’s customers will continue to receive services under their existing plans with no immediate changes to pricing, service, or support.
The acquisition comes at a time when demand for high-speed internet is surging, driven by remote work, online education, and streaming services. By integrating Lumen’s fiber assets, AT&T aims to strengthen its competitive edge against rivals like Verizon and Comcast. Industry analysts view the deal as a strategic step to scale AT&T’s fiber network, but they caution that regulatory scrutiny could focus on market competition and consumer impacts.
For now, customers of both AT&T and Lumen’s Mass Markets should expect business as usual. Once approved, the transition to AT&T Fiber is expected to be gradual, with a focus on maintaining service quality. After the sale closes AT&T will continue to run Lumen’s customers in a 3rd party company now owned by AT&T but run separate from AT&T’s main brand.
AT&T’s ambitious plan to double its fiber footprint by 2030 signals a transformative period for broadband access, but patience will be key as the regulatory process unfolds.
Please follow us on Facebook and X for more news, tips, and reviews. Need cord cutting tech support? Join our Cord Cutting Tech Support Facebook Group for help. You can find Luke on X HERE.