Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Postpaid service revenues grew 9% year over year, an acceleration from Q1, while total service revenues grew 6%, significantly outpacing closest competitors [18] - Adjusted free cash flow reached $4.6 billion, setting a new Q2 record, with an industry-leading adjusted free cash flow conversion from service revenues of 26% [18] - Core adjusted EBITDA growth was 6% year over year, with full-year expectations for core adjusted EBITDA set between $33.3 billion and $33.7 billion [23][24] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The business group led the industry in net additions, with postpaid account nets accelerating year over year [6] - The company achieved its highest ever business 5G broadband net additions, continuing to lead the overall broadband industry in net additions for the fourteenth consecutive quarter [13] - ARPA (Average Revenue Per Account) grew over 5%, marking the highest growth in eight years, with customers increasingly selecting premium rate plans [6][17] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company surpassed 20% share of households in smaller markets and rural areas, achieving its goal set for 2025 [108] - The competitive environment remains dynamic, with the company benefiting from increased customer speeds and lower costs in real terms over the past few years [35] - The company is focused on expanding its network in smaller markets and rural areas, with plans to increase site coverage significantly through acquisitions and new builds [12][88] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company announced a multiyear partnership with Cable to enhance mobile service offerings to small and mid-market businesses, aiming for incremental growth in an area with previously low exposure [7] - The strategy emphasizes maintaining a competitive edge through network leadership and customer experience, with ongoing investments in infrastructure and technology [9][10] - The company is committed to digital transformation, with significant progress in customer engagement through its app, which has over 75 million installs [15][16] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's ability to navigate a competitive environment, highlighting the unique value proposition of best network, best value, and best experiences [19] - The company anticipates continued strong growth in service revenues and customer additions, with expectations for postpaid net additions raised to between 6.1 million and 6.4 million for the year [22] - Management noted the potential for significant growth in the broadband sector, particularly through fiber investments and partnerships [97] Other Important Information - The company is set to close the acquisition of MetroNet, which is expected to enhance its fiber capabilities and customer base [25][99] - A recent agreement to divest its 800 megahertz licenses is anticipated to generate approximately $2.9 billion in cash, with additional potential upside [27] - The company expects a $1.5 billion benefit to cash taxes in 2026 from recent legislation, which will be allocated thoughtfully [26] Q&A Session Summary Question: What is the outlook for churn in the second half and the competitive environment? - Management indicated that while churn increased in Q2 due to rate plan optimizations, they expect it to decrease in Q3 and remain flat to slightly up year over year [36][37] Question: Can you provide more details on fiber growth and potential inorganic opportunities? - Management confirmed that the fiber business is expected to add 100,000 net additions this year, with ongoing evaluations for inorganic growth opportunities [39][40] Question: How does the company plan to improve network perception among prospective customers? - Management acknowledged that while current customers recognize the network's quality, efforts will focus on advertising and customer experience to enhance perception among prospective customers [62][66] Question: What is the current market share in rural areas and future expectations? - Management reported surpassing 20% market share in rural areas and expressed optimism for further growth, especially with the integration of U.S. Cellular assets [108][112] Question: How will the $1.5 billion tax benefit be utilized? - Management stated that the capital will be deployed thoughtfully, considering various options such as M&A, buybacks, or network investments [106]