Verizon Bundles Drive Record Adds

Verizon just posted blowout numbers: 406,000 net new postpaid phone customers in Q3 2026—an 820% jump from last year—and their best account adds in over a decade. With churn at record lows and full-year guidance rising, the story isn’t just about promotions. CEO Dan Schulman insists the growth comes from a trifecta: a flat-rate unlimited plan, a wireless-plus-home internet bundle, and a loyalty program that’s actually moving the needle on retention and margins. Promo and retention costs fell sharply, but equipment revenue slid as customers hold onto devices longer. The real test now: can Verizon keep up this momentum without having to juice sales with costly new offers?

But here’s the catch—Verizon’s betting big on a new twist for home internet: a fast, fixed wireless product using millimeter-wave spectrum, aiming for up to 1 Gbps speeds in dense metro areas. They plan to add up to 15 million more gigabit-capable homes by 2027, all while offloading network traffic to free up midband spectrum for mobile. Yet, millimeter wave has its limits: spotty indoor coverage and tricky installation. Execution risk is real, and FWA growth has intentionally slowed. Meanwhile, Comcast is tightening its belt with job cuts, signaling pressure on its wireless ambitions just as regulatory attention drifts to broadcast issues ahead of the election.

Reporting draws from insights and direct quotes by Verizon CEO Dan Schulman and coverage from Bloomberg.com.

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