BUSINESS
Celebrities are now in the phone business
USAThu Jun 19 2025
There is a new trend where famous people are putting their names on phone services. This is not just about phones, but also about the services that make them work. These services are called mobile virtual network operators, or MVNOs for short. They provide cell coverage by renting out the infrastructure from bigger companies.
The latest big name to enter this business is the Trump family. They launched Trump Mobile. This service offers cell coverage through a deal with the three major U. S. carriers. They also plan to sell gold phones by August. This is just one of many Trump-branded products, but it raises questions about conflicts of interest. The president appoints leaders for the Federal Communications Commission, which regulates this new venture.
Other celebrities have also jumped into the wireless business. Actors Jason Bateman, Sean Hayes, and Will Arnett launched SmartLess Mobile. It runs on T-Mobile’s 5G Network and is available across the contiguous U. S. and Puerto Rico. Ryan Reynolds bought a stake in Mint Mobile, which was later acquired by T-Mobile. Even brands like Walmart and AC Milan have entered this market.
MVNOs are not new, but the way they are used and launched has changed. They offer a way for brands to enter the phone business without building their own infrastructure. This can be a smart move, but it also comes with challenges. The market is getting crowded, and it will be tough to stand out. Quality of service and what consumers can afford will be key factors.
Trump Mobile’s pitch is about being an "all-American service" and tapping into the president’s fan base. Their flagship plan, The 47 Plan, costs $47. 45 a month and includes unlimited calls, texts, and data. They also plan to sell a gold phone called the T1 Phone for $499. However, experts are skeptical about the price and the phone’s availability.
SmartLess Mobile and Mint Mobile offer more affordable plans. Mint Mobile’s plans range from $15 to $30 a month and include unlimited talk and text. SmartLess Mobile’s plans start at $15 a month and also offer unlimited talk and text. Both companies aim to help consumers avoid hidden fees and pay only for the data they use.
The success of these ventures will depend on their marketing and how well they meet consumer needs. MVNOs can be a profitable business for both the brands that start them and the telecommunications giants that provide the infrastructure. This trend could encourage more celebrities and brands to enter the phone business.
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questions
Could the launch of Trump Mobile be a strategic move to influence public policy through the FCC?
What role does brand recognition play in the success of MVNOs launched by celebrities?
Will the 'T1 Phone' come with a built-in 'Make America Great' filter for all photos?
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