Cable operators Charter and Comcast build their own networks with CBRS spectrum and challenge Verizon’s model

Charter Communications and Comcast advance in the construction of their own mobile networks in the Estados Unidos by using the CBRS spectrum. Essas cable operators have jointly invested $922 million in this shared 3.5 GHz band, enabling the installation of small cells directly into their existing cable infrastructures. The main objective is to concentrate efforts in regions with high population density, where most mobile data consumption occurs.

The strategy allows both companies to reduce dependence on Verizon’s macro towers, with whom they have MVNO agreements. At the end of 2025, Charter recorded that 88% of Spectrum Mobile’s traffic already passed through networks controlled by the company itself, including Wi-Fi and CBRS. Essa migration reduces payments for external network usage, especially in low-traffic areas that remain under the responsibility of Verizon.

The approach follows the principle of Pareto, according to which a small portion of the territory generates the majority of mobile traffic. Assim, cable operators avoid the high costs of broad national coverage, leaving this more expensive part to Verizon.

Cable operator strategies

Charter and Comcast adopt different models in expanding their mobile networks. Charter is moving forward more aggressively, with a goal of reaching 23 CBRS markets by the end of 2025 to maximize wholesale cost savings.

Comcast, in turn, prioritizes profitability and treats wireless as a complement to broadband. The company has initiated rollouts in Philadelphia, where it holds the maximum allowable amount of CBRS spectrum.

Advantages of the CBRS spectrum

CBRS represents an FCC-regulated shared spectrum band that does not require expensive national licenses. Empresas can deploy private or local 4G and 5G networks in specific areas, which favors cable operators with existing infrastructure.

Small strand-mounted cells cost a few thousand dollars each, versus tens of thousands for traditional installations. Elas utilizes power and backhaul directly from fiber cables, simplifying deployment.

• Significant reduction in operating costs;
• Greater control over traffic in urban areas;
• Flexibility for selective densification;
• Compatibility with lightweight equipment from vendors such as Nokia and Samsung.

Cost reduction with Verizon

Over the past three years, Charter has reduced its dependence on macro towers from Verizon by around 20%. Essa change reflects increased offload to proprietary networks, including Wi-Fi and CBRS.

Verizon continues to be responsible for broad coverage in low-density regions, which are more expensive to maintain. Operadoras of cable pay wholesale only in these scenarios, optimizing expenses.

The model transforms the dynamics of the North American wireless market. Empresas of cable companies start to act as owners of infrastructure where the return is greater.

Gradual migration allows for substantial savings on payments to Verizon. Projeções indicate additional reductions as new CBRS markets come online.

Differences between Charter and Comcast

Charter works with Nokia equipment for its cable-mounted light cells. The company has already deployed thousands of CBRS radios in states such as Carolina, Norte, Alabama and Geórgia, with expansion planned for 2025.

Comcast chose to partner with Samsung and focuses initial efforts on Philadelphia. The more cautious approach reflects a focus on immediate profitability rather than accelerated growth in the mobile segment.

Both companies leverage existing cable infrastructure to power and connect cells. Essa integration reduces costs and accelerates deployments compared to traditional operators.

Charter records the highest percentage of offload traffic, reaching 88% in controlled networks at the end of 2025. Comcast advances at its own pace, prioritizing the addition of mobile lines as a complement to the fixed broadband base.

Deployment of strand-mounted small cells

Strand-mounted small cells represent the core of the Charter and Comcast strategy in CBRS. Esses lightweight equipment installs directly on aerial fiber cables, taking advantage of power and connectivity already available in the cable network. Installation takes place in dense neighborhoods, apartment blocks and urban streets with high data consumption, allowing precise densification without major civil works.

Vendors such as Nokia and Samsung provide compact radios that operate in 5G. Cada unit costs significantly less than traditional cells, enabling scale in quick turnaround areas. Charter is already demonstrating concrete results, with thousands of active units and expansion plans for new markets.

This technology transforms the economics of wireless for cable operators. Elas avoid massive investments in national coverage, focusing on where traffic is concentrated. Integration with residential Wi-Fi complements offload, increasing the overall efficiency of the hybrid network.

FCC regulatory requirements

The FCC establishes that CBRS licenses must be actively used until 2030, under penalty of loss. The criterion prioritizes population coverage, not geographic area, benefiting urban operators such as Charter and Comcast.

Wireless market outlook

The model adopted by Charter and Comcast changes competition in the North American mobile sector. Operadoras traditional companies bear the costs of universal coverage, while cable companies select areas with the highest return.

The combination of CBRS, Wi-Fi and MVNO agreements creates efficient hybrid networks. Clientes receive continuous service, with automatic transition between layers.

The strategy reinforces the convergence between fixed and mobile broadband. Integrated Pacotes reduces churn and increases loyalty.

• Offload to own networks;
• Reduction of wholesale payments;
• Densification in high traffic areas;
• Maintenance of national coverage via partner.

The evolution of CBRS consolidates cable operators as relevant players in wireless. Initial Investimentos of US$922 million generates increasing returns as traffic migrates to proprietary infrastructure.