Will AT&T buy EchoStar to offer mobile TV services?

While Verizon and AT&T caught our attention in the FCC auction, EchoStar is one company that went unnoticed. It bought 168 E-block licenses at a hefty $711 million. This has created a buzz in the market as a lot of experts think that EchoStar will try to offer mobile TV services more effectively than ever through Sling Media.

It’s a well known fact that SlingPlayer Mobile, introduced by EchoStar, has become quite popular and by acquiring a considerable number of licenses in the E-block spectrum, EchoStar might plan to broadcast its service in a better way.

Now, here’s the scoop. Another hot talk in the market is that EchoStar might not do any such thing, as it might change hands very soon. The buyer? You got it right – AT&T. This is almost a certified rumor which has been going on for ages now, but there is one thing which makes me think it might not be a rumor after all. AT&T has decided to hold off on its mobility services. Now, this sounds too preplanned to be a coincidence. After all, acquiring EchoStar will make AT&T strong in all three sectors – broadband, mobility, and TV.

So, will it happen? Your guess is as good as mine. But one way or the other, we can be sure of one thing. Mobile TV, soon, will have a very big market not just in the U.S., but around the world.

Categories: Cell Phone Advertising, All things mobile phones, Mobile TV.

0 comments.