AT&T and T-Mobile to share networks in New York and New Jersey

AT&T and T-Mobile USA have agreed to share their networks in New York and New Jersey in the wake of Hurricane Sandy. As both carriers operate GSM and UMTS networks, compatible devices can switch between either AT&T and T-Mobile with little trouble. Calls, texts, and data will go through whichever network has the most capacity in a given area. With reports of cell service outages thoughout New York and New Jersey, this agreement will allow people affected by those outages to utilize their phones if either network is operational. Service agreements will not be affected.

Full press release below.

AT&T and T-Mobile Open Networks to Customers of Both Carriers in New York and New Jersey

DALLAS & BELLEVUE, Wash.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--In the wake of destruction caused by Hurricane Sandy, AT&T and T-Mobile are taking extraordinary measures to make sure our customers can stay in touch.

AT&T and T-Mobile have entered into an agreement to enable roaming on their networks to customers of both companies in the heavily impacted areas and where capacity is available and for subscribers with a compatible device.

AT&T and T-Mobile customers will be able to place calls just as they normally would, but their calls will be carried by whichever network is most operational in their area. This will be seamless for AT&T and T-Mobile customers with no change to their current rate plans or service agreements even if the phone indicates the device is attached to the other carrier’s network.

T-Mobile and AT&T both utilize network technology based on GSM and UMTS standards, which allows for this sharing of voice and data traffic.

Source: Business Wire