AT&T Leased 55 Spectrum Licenses from N Squared

The telecom giant secured usage rights for 3.45GHz frequencies across 25 U.S. markets.

Updated on Sept. 22, 2026 in Telecommunications

Bold vector editorial illustration of a cellular transmission tower featuring multiple antenna arrays set against a clear background. — AT&T has leased 55 spectrum licenses for 3.45GHz frequencies from N Squared to enhance network capacity across 25 U.S. markets. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Live Poll

Do you notice better mobile and internet performance after recent network upgrades in your area?

AT&T has entered into a spectrum manager lease agreement with N Squared to acquire 55 3.45GHz licenses. This arrangement covers 25 markets spanning approximately 12 states.

Why it matters

The company intends to leverage this additional capacity to improve network throughput and speeds while reducing latency for users. AT&T plans to deploy the spectrum using radio equipment already installed at its current cell sites.

The deal involves 55 licenses in the 3.45GHz frequency band across 25 markets in 12 states. While AT&T holds de facto usage rights, N Squared retains de jure control of the spectrum.

The players

AT&T

This major American multinational telecommunications company provides mobile and fixed-line services across the United States.

N Squared

This private venture is backed by Northwood Ventures and currently serves as the holder of the 3.45GHz spectrum licenses.

EchoStar

This communications company previously finalized a multi-billion dollar spectrum transaction with AT&T earlier in 2026.

The details

AT&T subsidiaries New Cingular Wireless PCS and AT&T Mobility Spectrum submitted the lease filing for the frequencies managed by N Squared, a venture backed by Northwood Ventures. The deployment strategy utilizes existing infrastructure, allowing the company to integrate the new capacity without replacing current hardware.

In 2026, AT&T closed a $23 billion spectrum deal with EchoStar.
The leasing deal with N Squared was announced in September 2026.

Roadmap

This transaction extends the industry's reliance on 3.45GHz C-Band spectrum to expand 5G network capacity. It follows a consistent pattern of major wireless carriers securing mid-band assets to maintain competitive network speeds as data demands rise.

Customers in the affected markets may see improved data speeds and reduced network latency once the spectrum is active. The use of existing cell site radios means the upgrades can be implemented without the physical disruption of installing new hardware at every site.

The takeaway

This lease allows a major carrier to boost network efficiency by utilizing existing infrastructure for new frequency bands. Consumers can expect better connectivity as these resources are integrated into the wider national network.