T-Mobile to enter US pay-television sector

Telecommunications company T-Mobile will enter the US pay-television market after agreeing a deal to acquire television provider Layer3.

T-Mobile said it will work with Layer3’s technology and talent to launch a “disruptive” new television service in 2018.

Currently, Layer3 TV delivers a product that integrates the best of television, streaming online video content and social media. It is available in five cities across the US.

T-Mobile said the new television service will take full advantage of its nationwide retail presence, along with its sales and customer care organisations.

“We’re in the midst of the golden age of TV, and yet people have never been more frustrated by the status quo created by big cable and satellite TV,” Mike Sievert, chief operating officer of T-Mobile, said.

“That’s because the world is changing – with mobile video, streaming services, cord cutting, original content and more – and yet, the old guard simply can’t – or won’t – evolve. It’s time for a disruptor to shake things up and give people real choice like only the Un-carrier can.”