AT&T’s T-Mobile Bid Shouldn’t Be Approved, Consumer Group Says

U.S. regulators should reject AT&T Inc.’s proposed $39 billion purchase of T-Mobile USA Inc. because it will lead to higher prices for consumers, the public-interest group Consumer Watchdog said.

“T-Mobile customers who are forced to migrate to AT&T’s network will have to buy new phones, agree to more expensive rate plans or cancel their contracts and pay a termination fee,” the Santa Monica, California-based group said in a letter. “Once known for its low prices, T-Mobile has already begun increasing its rates and decreasing options in anticipation of the merger,” Consumer Watchdog said.