Verizon buys the not-quite-5G wireless ISP Starry to expand wireless broadband, marking a major step in its effort to strengthen home internet options across U.S. cities. The deal boosts Verizon’s ability to deliver high-speed wireless service to apartments and condos — areas often underserved by traditional broadband providers.
A New Chapter For Verizon’s Wireless Internet Strategy
Starry, launched in 2016, was known for its bold vision: delivering gigabit internet through antennas instead of cables. Using millimeter-wave (mmWave) technology, Starry beamed internet signals directly from rooftop transmitters into homes. This allowed faster deployment than fiber — but also came with challenges.
Because mmWave signals need a clear line of sight, Starry’s service often struggled in dense urban environments or areas with physical obstructions. Still, its promise of fast, cable-free internet drew attention from both consumers and competitors.
Why Verizon’s Acquisition Matters
By acquiring Starry, Verizon isn’t just buying a struggling startup — it’s gaining valuable mmWave infrastructure, existing customer relationships, and urban network coverage. The move aligns with Verizon’s broader goal of expanding wireless broadband in high-density housing areas where installing fiber lines is costly and slow.
Verizon says the acquisition “advances” its ability to bring high-speed internet to multi-dwelling units, a segment that’s becoming increasingly competitive as more users demand flexible, reliable connections.
Starry’s Rise And Struggles
Starry entered the market with a fresh approach but faced financial turbulence. The company laid off half its staff in 2022 and filed for bankruptcy in 2023. Despite its setbacks, Starry maintained nearly 100,000 customers across cities like Boston, Denver, Los Angeles, New York City, and Washington, DC.
As part of Verizon’s portfolio, Starry’s tech and network footprint could finally find stability and scale — something it lacked as an independent player.
What This Means For Customers
For existing Starry users, the acquisition could bring much-needed investment in service quality and network reliability. For Verizon customers, it may open up new home internet options without the need for wired connections.
With this deal, Verizon strengthens its position against T-Mobile’s and AT&T’s fixed wireless internet offerings — intensifying the race to own the next generation of home broadband.
The Bigger Picture: Wireless Broadband’s Future
The acquisition underscores how telecom giants are betting big on wireless broadband as the future of home internet. While not-quite-5G, Starry’s mmWave technology fits perfectly into Verizon’s long-term strategy: deliver faster, more accessible connectivity to every type of household.
If Verizon can overcome Starry’s coverage challenges, this deal could redefine what wireless broadband looks like in 2025 and beyond.
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