Verizon History Timeline and Biographies

Verizon Communications Inc. is an American multinational telecommunications conglomerate and a corporate component of the Dow Jones Industrial Average. The company was formed in 2000 with the merger of Bell Atlantic and GTE, and it has since grown to become one of the largest telecommunications companies in the world, offering a wide range of services including wireless communications, broadband, and digital television.

Creation Time:2024-05-16

1983

Formation of Bell Atlantic

Bell Atlantic was formed in 1983 as one of the seven Regional Bell Operating Companies created by the breakup of AT&T. This company would later become a key part of Verizon.
1994

Bell Atlantic Expands

Bell Atlantic expanded its reach by acquiring telecommunications company NYNEX, enhancing its presence in the Northeast United States.
2000

Formation of Verizon Communications

Verizon Communications was formed in June 2000 through the merger of Bell Atlantic and GTE, creating one of the largest telecommunications companies in the United States.
2002

Launch of Verizon Wireless

Verizon Wireless was launched as a joint venture between Verizon Communications and Vodafone, quickly becoming one of the leading wireless service providers in the United States.
2005

Acquisition of MCI Inc.

Verizon acquired MCI Inc., a major telecommunications company, to enhance its global internet and data services capabilities.
2006

Introduction of FiOS

Verizon introduced FiOS, its fiber-optic internet and television service, aiming to provide high-speed internet and digital TV services to residential customers.
2008

Verizon Wireless Acquires Alltel

Verizon Wireless acquired Alltel, expanding its wireless network and customer base, making it the largest wireless service provider in the United States at the time.
2013

Full Ownership of Verizon Wireless

Verizon Communications acquired Vodafone's 45% stake in Verizon Wireless for $130 billion, gaining full control of the wireless business.
2015

Acquisition of AOL

Verizon acquired AOL for $4.4 billion, aiming to enhance its digital media and advertising capabilities.
2016

Acquisition of Yahoo

Verizon acquired Yahoo's core internet operations for $4.83 billion, integrating it with AOL to form a new subsidiary called Oath.
2017

Launch of Verizon Unlimited Data Plans

Verizon reintroduced unlimited data plans, responding to market demand and competitive pressures from other wireless carriers.
2018

First 5G Home Service

Verizon launched the first commercial 5G home broadband service in the United States, marking a significant milestone in the deployment of 5G technology.
2019

First 5G Mobile Network

Verizon launched its 5G Ultra Wideband network in parts of Chicago and Minneapolis, becoming one of the first carriers to offer 5G mobile services.
2021

Sale of Verizon Media

Verizon sold its media division, Verizon Media, which included AOL and Yahoo, to Apollo Global Management for $5 billion, refocusing on its core telecommunications business.
2023

Expansion of 5G Network

Verizon continued to expand its 5G network across the United States, aiming to provide nationwide coverage and enhance the speed and reliability of its services.
2024

Verizon's Commitment to Sustainability

Verizon announced its commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2035, reflecting its dedication to environmental sustainability and corporate responsibility.
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