AT&T, a telecom industry leader, offers a vast range of services from mobile to internet and entertainment. Serving millions in the U.S., they provide 100+ million wireless subscriptions, 15+ million broadband connections, and 20+ million premium TV subscribers.
For anyone considering AT&T as their telecom choice, it’s essential to have a clear view of what current users are saying. This breakdown provides a concise summary of AT&T’s strengths and areas of improvement for AT&T, based on genuine customer feedback.
| Review Site | Rating |
|---|---|
| ConsumerAffairs | 3/5 |
| Trustpilot | 1.72/5 |
| Criteria | Stars (Out of 5) |
|---|---|
| Customer Service Personnel | ★★★★★ |
| Reliable Prepaid Service | ★★★★☆ |
| Effective Problem-Solving | ★★★★☆ |
| Assistance with Activation | ★★★★☆ |
| Connection Issues | ★★☆☆☆ |
| Account Management | ★★☆☆☆ |
| Billing Confusion | ★★☆☆☆ |
| Restrictive Policies | ★★☆☆☆ |
| Desire for Additional Features | ★★★☆☆ |
Get ready to deep dive into the multifaceted world of AT&T Telecom. We’ll explore their diverse service offerings, evaluate their network performance, and closely examine what users say.
Overview of AT&T
AT&T is more than just a telephone company—it’s evolved into a leading provider of mobile services, high-speed internet connections, and streaming entertainment.
AT&T currently serves millions across the United States with its varied offerings. Whether texting your friends on an AT&T cell phone or binge-watching your favorite series on DirecTV, chances are you’ve interacted with this telecom behemoth. In fact, according to the latest reports from the company itself:
| User Type | Number (Millions) |
|---|---|
| Wireless Subscribers | 100+ |
| Broadband Connections | 15+ |
| Premium TV Subscribers | 20+ |
Service Offerings
Let’s dive into the ocean of AT&T’s service offerings, shall we?
Mobile Services
AT&T is a titan when it comes to mobile services. They’ve got everything under the sun, from postpaid to prepaid plans.
Postpaid Plans
Their postpaid plans are excellent for those seeking unlimited talk, text, and data options. Also, they have rollover data, which ensures you don’t lose out on unused data at the end of your billing cycle.
Here is a table of their postpaid plans and current pricing:
| Feature/Plan | AT&T Unlimited Premium℠ ($50.00/mo. for 4 lines) | AT&T Unlimited Extra® ($40.00/mo. for 4 lines) | AT&T Unlimited Starter® ($35.00/mo. for 4 lines) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Talk, Text & Data | Unlimited (No slowdown based on usage) | Unlimited (May slow after 50GB if the network is busy) | Unlimited (May slow if the network is busy) |
| Mobile Security | AT&T ActiveArmorSM with Wi-Fi Protection, Identity Monitoring | AT&T ActiveArmorSM with Wi-Fi Protection, Identity Monitoring | AT&T ActiveArmorSM with Spam Call Blocking |
| Hotspot Data | 50GB (Slowed to 128Kbps after 50GB) | 15GB (Slowed to 128Kbps after 15GB) | 3GB (Slowed to 128Kbps after 3GB) |
| International Features | Unlimited talk, text & high-speed data in 19 Latin American countries | – | – |
| Streaming Quality | 4K UHD | Standard-definition | Standard-definition |
| Signature Program Discount | Save up to $10/mo. per line | – | – |
Prepaid Plans
On the other hand, if you’re more budget-conscious or prefer not to have a long-term contract, AT&T’s prepaid plans can be your best bet.
Below is a table representation of the provided AT&T Prepaid plans:
| Plan Features | 16GB 3-month ($33.00/mo.) | 12-month Unlimited ($25.00/mo.) | Unlimited ($50.00/mo. with AutoPay) | 5GB ($30.00/mo.) | 15GB ($40.00/mo.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Data Allowance | 16GB | Unlimited (slows after 16GB) | Unlimited | 5GB | 15GB |
| 5G Access | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| International Features | Text to 230+ countries, Unlimited talk, text & data in U.S., Mexico & Canada | Text to 230+ countries, Calls to Canada and Mexico | Text to 230+ countries, Unlimited talk, text & data in Mexico & Canada (Limit 25GB in Canada) | Text to 230+ countries | Text to 230+ countries, Unlimited talk, text & data in U.S., Mexico & Canada |
| Mobile Security | AT&T ActiveArmor with Fraud Call Blocking | AT&T ActiveArmor with Fraud Call Blocking | AT&T ActiveArmor with Fraud Call Blocking | AT&T ActiveArmor with Fraud Call Blocking | AT&T ActiveArmor with Fraud Call Blocking |
| Hotspot | Uses plan data | 5GB | 5GB | Uses plan data | Uses plan data |
| Streaming Quality | HD | Standard-definition | Standard-definition | Standard-definition | Standard-definition |
| Rollover Data | Yes | No | No | Yes | Yes |
| Price without AutoPay | $33.00/mo. | $25.00/mo. | $65.00/mo. | $30.00/mo. | $40.00/mo. |
| Price with AutoPay | N/A | N/A | $50.00/mo. | N/A | N/A |
| Promotion/Note | Double data (Regularly 8GB) | Prepay $300 for 12 months | Discounted from $65.00/mo. | After high-speed data use, slows to 128Kbps | After high-speed data use, slows to 128Kbps |
5G Coverage and Infrastructure
AT&T is ensuring they aren’t playing catch-up in the world of network infrastructure. They’re putting on their work boots and taking action! Over various regions in the U.S., their teams are tirelessly rolling out 5G networks. Why is this a big deal?
- 5G is the next big leap in mobile connectivity, promising data speeds miles ahead of its predecessor, 4G. Imagine downloading your favorite movie or sending a large work file in seconds. That’s the power of 5G.
- But it’s not just about speed. A robust 5G network can significantly reduce latency, ensuring real-time activities, like video calls or online gaming, happen without a glitch. The transformative power of 5G also stretches beyond our phones.
- AT&T knows the stakes and is investing heavily in this new tech frontier. From urban centers to suburban communities, they aim to make 5G accessible, reliable, and blazing fast.
Internet Services
But wait! There’s more! AT&T doesn’t just stop at mobile services; they also have impressive internet services.
AT&T offers a range of internet options to cater to different needs and preferences. Here’s a structured breakdown:
AT&T Fiber Plans
Experience the next level of connectivity with AT&T’s Fiber Plans. Leveraging fiber-optic technology, these plans deliver lightning-fast speeds designed to meet the demands of today’s digital era.
- 300Mbps: Priced at $55/mo., suitable for families that engage in streaming, gaming, and file sharing. It supports up to 10 devices.
- 500Mbps: At $65/mo., it caters to multiple users for efficient streaming and sharing. You can connect up to 11 devices.
- 1 GIG: Costing $80/mo. This plan is for users who require high speeds for online gaming and professional work.
- 2 GIG: At $150/mo., it’s optimized for remote work and multiple connected devices.
- 5 GIG: Priced at $250/mo., designed for high-demand activities such as content creation and online gaming.
AT&T Internet Plans
Diverse needs call for diverse solutions. AT&T’s Internet Plans cater to a wide range of users, whether streaming, gaming, or browsing. Find the perfect plan that aligns with your online habits.
- Internet 100: Offers 100Mbps at $55/mo., suitable for HD video streaming, gaming, and large file sharing.
- Internet 50: Provides 50Mbps at $55/mo. It’s designed for streaming on multiple devices, gaming, and media sharing.
- Internet 25: Delivers 25Mbps for $55/mo. It’s ideal for basic streaming, gaming, and media sharing across a few devices.
Specialized Internet Solutions
Beyond the conventional, AT&T recognizes that some situations require a unique touch. Dive into Specialized Internet Solutions that cater to specific needs, ensuring everyone stays connected, no matter the circumstance.
- Access from AT&T: A cost-effective option for qualifying households in the 21-state service area. The eligibility criteria for this program included:
- Participation in U.S. Federal Assistance Programs typically refers to programs such as Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients in California.
- Household income: The household’s total income must be below a specific threshold set by federal poverty guidelines. This can vary, but for the “Access from AT&T” program, it usually relates to being below 135% of the federal poverty guidelines.
Coverage Map
Knowing is half the battle. AT&T’s Coverage Maps provides a visual guide to where services are available, helping you make informed decisions about your connectivity.
TV and Entertainment
And if that wasn’t enough already – let’s talk entertainment!
DirectTV and Streaming Service Offerings
DIRECTV STREAM provides a comprehensive entertainment experience, offering live TV, streaming options, and On-Demand selections. This service allows you to access desired channels, including Regional Sports Networks and a range of hit movies and original series.
Check out the table below to find the right fit based on rewards, pricing, channel count, and key features.
| Package | Reward Card | Price/mo. (24 mos.) | Channels | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ENTERTAINMENT | $100 | $64.99 + taxes & fees | 75+ | – AMC, CNN, Disney Channel, ESPN & more – Local channels – First Gemini Air device – Unlimited Cloud DVR – DIRECTV Sports Pack (3 Months) |
| CHOICE™ | $200 | $84.99 + taxes & fees | 105+ | – ACC Network, Big Ten Network, NBA TV, SEC Network & more – Local channels – First Gemini Air device – Regional Sports Networks – Unlimited Cloud DVR – DIRECTV Sports Pack (3 Months) |
| ULTIMATE | $300 | $109.99 + taxes & fees | 140+ | – CBS Sports Network, Discovery Family, FX Movie Channel, NHL Network, STARZ Encore & more – Local channels – First Gemini Air device – Regional Sports Networks – Unlimited Cloud DVR – DIRECTV Sports Pack (3 Months) |
| PREMIER | $400 | $154.99 + taxes & fees | 150+ | – Max¹, SHOWTIME®, STARZ®, and Cinemax® – Local channels – Premium networks include – First Gemini Air device – Regional Sports Networks – Unlimited Cloud DVR – Includes every DIRECTV Sports Pack channel |
Comparative Analysis
Get a quick snapshot of how AT&T stacks up against its competitors on the basics – price, overall customer satisfaction, national coverage, average speed, and the quality of customer service. It’s essential to dive deeper if one has specific requirements, but this provides a general overview.
| Aspect | AT&T | Verizon | T-Mobile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coverage | Extensive 4G LTE and growing 5G coverage. | Widest 4G LTE coverage and expansive 5G. | Rapidly expanding 4G LTE and 5G coverage due to the Sprint merger. |
| Speed | Average 4G speeds: 25-40 Mbps. 5G varies widely based on type and location. | Average 4G speeds: 25-40 Mbps. Ultra-Wideband 5G can exceed 1 Gbps in available areas. | Average 4G speeds: 25-40 Mbps. 5G deployment has been aggressive, with impressive speeds in urban areas. |
| Pricing | Wide range of plans. Competitive pricing, especially for families and bundled services. | Typically a bit pricier, but offers premium features and perks. | Often marketed as the best value with perks like taxes and fees included in the advertised price. |
| Customer Service | Historically, there have been mixed reviews, but many improvements have been noted over the years. | Generally positive feedback, with a longstanding reputation for good customer care. | Mixed to positive. Some praise for their responsive social media support. |
| Features & Perks | Bundling options with DirecTV and HBO. International perks with some plans. | Premium plans often come with Apple Music or Disney Bundle. Known for its robust parental controls. | Netflix on Us for certain plans. International texting and data are included in many plans. |
Network Performance
When it comes to AT&T’s network performance, there’s a lot to consider. I’ve crunched the numbers and compared the data, and here’s what I’ve found.
- Speed. AT&T is known for its high-speed internet service, and it doesn’t disappoint. According to the latest stats from Ookla Speedtest, AT&T consistently ranks among the top three fastest mobile networks in the U.S. We’re talking an average download speed of 34.65 Mbps – that’s some great speed!
- Coverage. After all, what good is fast internet if you can’t access it? With AT&T, you won’t have that problem because their network covers more than 99% of Americans nationwide! And when we talk about reliability- oh boy! J.D Power’s wireless network quality studies have awarded them multiple times for having “the highest customer satisfaction with wireless network quality in North Central region.”
- Voice calls. With VoLTE (Voice over LTE) technology implemented across its entire network coverage area, AT&T ensures clear call quality and fewer dropped calls.
- Pricing. When compared against other major carriers like Verizon and T-Mobile, AT&T offers competitive pricing plans for individual users and families.
User Reviews and Feedback
Digging through countless user reviews, there’s a pattern that stands out. Folks appreciate AT&T’s commitment to resolving issues promptly. The company gets high customer praise for its dedicated support team, who often go above and beyond to ensure satisfaction.
That being said, no telecom giant is without its share of criticism. Some users have reported billing issues or miscommunication with service representatives. However, the positive feedback far outweighs these concerns.
Strengths (Positive Feedback):
- Customer Service Personnel: Exceptional interactions with some members, including a standout performance from Jen and praises for Blake & Beau at a specific AT&T store.
- Reliable Prepaid Service: AT&T’s prepaid service is reliable with user-friendly pricing.
- Effective Problem-Solving: Issues like unprocessed trade-in phones are resolved when escalated to the right personnel.
- Assistance with Activation: There was an instance of a representative assisting a customer short on activation fees, ensuring a smooth transition.
Weaknesses (Negative Feedback):
- Connection Issues: Some users experience slow internet and difficulties with text sending.
- Account Management: Challenges encountered when transferring a phone from a family plan to an individual account, even after following the necessary procedures.
- Billing Confusion: Misunderstandings regarding the impact of adding lines to the bill.
- Restrictive Policies: After missing prior arrangements, certain customers felt limited by payment arrangement rules.
- Desire for Additional Features: Wishes for a mobile app dedicated to the prepaid service.
Benefits and Advantages
When I switched to AT&T, a new world of telecom advantages opened.
- Network coverage. When it comes to seamless connectivity, AT&T stands out from the crowd. No matter where I am in the U.S., there’s hardly any signal drop or disruption.
- Amazing bundle deals AT&T offers. My personal favorite? The combo of wireless service with DIRECTV. It’s been a game-changer for my family — we’re all hooked on our favorite shows without worrying about spiking internet costs!
- Customer needs and Satisfaction. They’ve got an array of plans tailored for different users – whether you’re a data hog or someone who wants basic cell phone service.
- Unlimited plans offer unlimited talk, text, and data.
- Prepaid plans are perfect if you’re budget-minded.
- Family plans allow multiple lines under one account.
- Customer support. Available around the clock through various channels like chat, calls, emails, and social media platforms.
- Speed. AT&T doesn’t disappoint. Everything runs smoothly with minimal lag times, whether browsing web pages or playing online games.
Areas for Improvement
AT&T isn’t without its fair share of shortcomings. There’s always room for improvement, after all!
- Customer service responsiveness. A quick online search will reveal numerous testimonials from customers with less-than-stellar experiences. To paint a clearer picture:
- Delayed Response Times: Customers have reported waiting upwards of 30 minutes to speak with a representative.
- Lackadaisical Complaint Resolution: In some instances, issues raised by customers took longer to resolve than anticipated.
- Consistency of their network coverage. While AT&T boasts one of America’s largest 4G networks, there are still pockets where reception can be patchy. This inconsistency can pose considerable inconveniences for users requiring reliable connections for their daily activities.
- Price points and package flexibility. Compared to other telecom giants like Verizon and T-Mobile, AT&T’s plans aren’t always competitive regarding pricing or data allowances.
Future Outlook
Looking ahead, I’m seeing a bright future for AT&T. Let’s dive into why I believe this telecom giant is set to make some serious waves in the industry.
- Expansion of 5G Network: As the demand for faster and more reliable connectivity grows, AT&T is poised to expand its 5G footprint across the U.S., focusing on urban and rural areas.
- Enhanced Digital Solutions: With the increasing reliance on digital tools for work, entertainment, and socialization, AT&T will likely introduce advanced solutions to cater to the changing needs of its users.
- Improving Customer Service: Recognizing their criticisms, AT&T may invest more in training and resources to enhance its customer service responsiveness and resolution speed.
- Strategic Partnerships and Collaborations: Expect to see AT&T forging more partnerships with content creators, tech companies, and other industries to offer bundled deals and exclusive content.
- Green Initiatives: As global emphasis on sustainability intensifies, AT&T might explore green technologies and energy-efficient solutions in their infrastructure to reduce their carbon footprint.
- Affordable Plans: Facing competition from other telecom giants and realizing many economic challenges, AT&T could introduce more cost-effective plans and deals to cater to a broader audience.
- IoT and Smart Solutions: With the world moving towards smart cities and IoT (Internet of Things), AT&T could focus on providing solutions and services in this sector, from smart homes to interconnected urban infrastructure.
References
Website Resources:
- AT&T’s Official Website. https://www.att.com/
- DSLReports. http://www.dslreports.com/
- Statista. https://www.statista.com/
- Trustpilot. https://www.trustpilot.com/
Video References:
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Stetson Doggett
AT&T Explore