Dish Network, a satellite TV provider, is facing challenges in its planned transition into streaming video and wireless services. The company is losing traditional satellite TV subscribers, as well as customers for its streaming and wireless offerings. Additionally, Dish’s 5G network, established during the Trump FCC era, has been met with disappointment.

As a result, Dish has initiated a new round of layoffs in an attempt to cut costs. These job cuts come amidst growing concerns about potential bankruptcy. However, Dish insists that the layoffs are simply part of routine workforce evaluation and adjustment, as they continue to hire in other areas of the company.

Dish’s 5G plan originated from the efforts of Trump-era “antitrust enforcers” who supported the merger of Sprint and T-Mobile. As part of the deal, Dish was granted T-Mobile spectrum and encouraged to build a nationwide 5G network. However, the execution of the plan faced difficulties from the beginning.

Dish encountered disputes with T-Mobile and experienced delays in constructing the 5G network. Reviews of the network have been largely negative, citing coverage issues, limited phone options, and poor customer service. In addition, a recent hack significantly impacted the company’s operations.

Dish recently fulfilled an FCC requirement by reaching 70% of the U.S. population with its network, primarily in major cities. However, the next FCC target of 75% coverage by 2025 poses a greater challenge, as it involves expanding into more difficult and costly rural and suburban areas. This poses significant difficulties for a company experiencing financial struggles.

It is speculated that Dish will eventually sell its spectrum holdings and unfinished network to a company like Verizon. This scenario could be further facilitated by a weak response from the FCC. The CEO of Dish, Charlie Ergen, may also benefit from this outcome, potentially retiring with substantial financial gains.

Overall, Dish Network’s transition into streaming video and wireless services has been beset by problems. The company’s 5G network has been deemed subpar, leading to customer dissatisfaction and financial troubles. The layoffs indicate the company’s ongoing struggle to adapt in an evolving market.

The post Dish Lays Off Employees as Cord Cutting Chips Away at Dying Satellite TV Company’s 5G Pivot appeared first on TS2 SPACE.