AT&T has announced a partnership with Kinetic, the broadband brand of Windstream Communications, to offer a bundled fiber and wireless service across Kinetic’s 18-state, rural-focused footprint. This move aims to enhance connectivity options and reduce costs for users in rural areas from Minnesota to Texas, and across the Southeast and parts of the Mid-Atlantic.
The collaboration is framed as “innovative teaming” to meet the rising demand for integrated connectivity services. Both companies emphasize cost savings and addressing the digital divide through these joint offerings. A release from the companies states, “There is increased demand for converged connectivity offerings, not only for existing customers looking to save on connectivity, but also for new customers who are looking for a reliable connectivity experience.”
Kinetic Chief Marketing Officer Ben Midanek commented, “This is another monumental step to bring industry-leading quality and affordability to the communities Kinetic serves.”
Customers who subscribe to both wireless service from AT&T and home broadband from Kinetic will receive a $20 monthly discount on their internet services for up to 24 months. Existing Kinetic customers switching to AT&T can also get a $200 rewards card, in addition to AT&T’s standard promotional offers. Kinetic offers plans with speeds up to 2 Gbps, ensuring high-speed internet access.
The partnership highlights the effort to close the rural-urban digital divide by providing rural consumers with new service options. AT&T has committed $5 billion toward its initiatives, aiming to connect 25 million people by 2030. This includes expanding network infrastructure, forming public-private partnerships, and investing in digital literacy programs. Meanwhile, Kinetic has committed $2 billion to upgrade its infrastructure over several years.
Erin Scarborough, SVP of consumer products for AT&T, added, “This is an evolution in strategic bundling focused on customer service. By collaborating with Kinetic, we’ll be able to put more smartphones in the hands of more Americans… This collaboration advances our mission to connect people to greater possibility including bringing connectivity to help bridge the Digital Divide for millions across underserved and unserved communities.”
