T-Mobile US (TMUS) 10-K 14 Feb 17 2016 FY Annual report Financial data

Document and Entity Information

Document and Entity Information - USD ($) $ in Billions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Feb. 08, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016
Document and Entity Information [Abstract]
Entity Registrant Name	T-MOBILE US, INC.
Trading Symbol	TMUS
Entity Central Index Key	1,283,699
Document Type	10-K
Document Period End Date	Dec. 31, 2016
Amendment Flag	false
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2,016
Document Fiscal Period Focus	FY
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--12-31
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	Yes
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Filer Category	Large Accelerated Filer
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		826,525,821
Entity Public Float			$ 12.4

Consolidated Balance Sheets

Consolidated Balance Sheets - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Current assets
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 5,500	$ 4,582
Short-term investments	0	2,998
Accounts receivable, net of allowances of $102 and $116	1,896	1,788
Equipment installment plan receivables, net	1,930	2,378
Accounts receivable from affiliates	40	36
Inventories	1,111	1,295
Asset purchase deposit	2,203	0
Other current assets	1,537	1,813
Total current assets	14,217	14,890
Property and equipment, net	20,943	20,000
Goodwill	1,683	1,683
Spectrum licenses	27,014	23,955
Other intangible assets, net	376	594
Equipment installment plan receivables due after one year, net	984	847
Other assets	674	444
Total assets	65,891	62,413
Current liabilities
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	7,152	8,084
Payables to affiliates	125	135
Short-term debt	354	182
Deferred revenue	986	717
Other current liabilities	405	410
Total current liabilities	9,022	9,528
Long-term debt	21,832	20,461
Long-term debt to affiliates	5,600	5,600
Tower obligations	2,621	2,658
Deferred tax liabilities	4,938	4,061
Deferred rent expense	2,616	2,481
Other long-term liabilities	1,026	1,067
Total long-term liabilities	38,633	36,328
Commitments and contingencies (Note 12)
Stockholders' equity
5.50% Mandatory Convertible Preferred Stock Series A, par value $0.00001 per share, 100,000,000 shares authorized; 20,000,000 and 20,000,000 shares issued and outstanding; $1,000 and $1,000 aggregate liquidation value	0	0
Common Stock, par value $0.00001 per share, 1,000,000,000 shares authorized; 827,768,818 and 819,773,724 shares issued, 826,357,331 and 818,391,219 shares outstanding	0	0
Additional paid-in capital	38,846	38,666
Treasury stock, at cost, 1,411,487 and 1,382,505 shares issued	(1)	0
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	1	(1)
Accumulated deficit	(20,610)	(22,108)
Total stockholders' equity	18,236	16,557
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity	$ 65,891	$ 62,413

Condensed Consolidated Balance

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Statement of Financial Position [Abstract]
Allowances	$ 102	$ 116
5.50% Mandatory convertible preferred stock series A, par value (in USD per share)	$ 0.00001	$ 0.00001
5.50% Mandatory convertible preferred stock series A, shares authorized (in shares)	100,000,000	100,000,000
5.50% Mandatory convertible preferred stock series A, shares issued (in shares)	20,000,000	20,000,000
5.50% Mandatory convertible preferred stock series A, shares outstanding (in shares)	20,000,000	20,000,000
5.50% Mandatory convertible preferred stock series A, aggregate liquidation value	$ 1,000	$ 1,000
Common stock, par value (in USD per share)	$ 0.00001	$ 0.00001
Common stock, shares authorized (in shares)	1,000,000,000	1,000,000,000
Common stock, shares issued (in shares)	827,768,818	819,773,724
Common stock, shares outstanding (in shares)	826,357,331	818,391,219
Treasury stock, at cost (in shares)	1,411,487	1,382,505
Annual dividend rate	5.50%	5.50%

Consolidated Statements of Comp

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Revenues
Branded postpaid revenues	$ 18,138	$ 16,383	$ 14,392
Branded prepaid revenues	8,553	7,553	6,986
Wholesale revenues	903	692	731
Roaming and other service revenues	250	193	266
Total service revenues	27,844	24,821	22,375
Equipment revenues	8,727	6,718	6,789
Other revenues	671	514	400
Total revenues	37,242	32,053	29,564
Operating expenses
Cost of services, exclusive of depreciation and amortization shown separately below	5,731	5,554	5,788
Cost of equipment sales	10,819	9,344	9,621
Selling, general and administrative	11,378	10,189	8,863
Depreciation and amortization	6,243	4,688	4,412
Cost of MetroPCS business combination	104	376	299
Gains on disposal of spectrum licenses	(835)	(163)	(840)
Other, net	0	0	5
Total operating expenses	33,440	29,988	28,148
Operating income	3,802	2,065	1,416
Other income (expense)
Interest expense	(1,418)	(1,085)	(1,073)
Interest expense to affiliates	(312)	(411)	(278)
Interest income	261	420	359
Other expense, net	(6)	(11)	(11)
Total other expense, net	(1,475)	(1,087)	(1,003)
Income before income taxes	2,327	978	413
Income tax expense	(867)	(245)	(166)
Net income	1,460	733	247
Dividends on preferred stock	(55)	(55)	0
Net income attributable to common stockholders	1,405	678	247
Net income	1,460	733	247
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax
Unrealized gain (loss) on available-for-sale securities, net of tax effect of $1, $(1) and $(1)	2	(2)	(2)
Other comprehensive income (loss)	2	(2)	(2)
Total comprehensive income	$ 1,462	$ 731	$ 245
Earnings per share
Basic (in USD per share)	$ 1.71	$ 0.83	$ 0.31
Diluted (in USD per share)	$ 1.69	$ 0.82	$ 0.30
Weighted average shares outstanding
Basic (in shares)	822,470,275	812,994,028	805,284,712
Diluted (in shares)	833,054,545	822,617,938	815,922,258

Condensed Consolidated Statemen

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Parenthetical) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Unrealized gain (loss) on available-for-sale securities, tax	$ 1	$ (1)	$ (1)

Consolidated Statements of Cash

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Operating activities
Net income	$ 1,460	$ 733	$ 247
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities
Depreciation and amortization	6,243	4,688	4,412
Stock-based compensation expense	235	201	196
Deferred income tax expense	914	256	122
Bad debt expense	477	547	444
Losses from sales of receivables	228	204	179
Deferred rent expense	121	167	225
Gains on disposal of spectrum licenses	(835)	(163)	(840)
Change in embedded derivatives	(25)	148	(18)
Changes in operating assets and liabilities
Accounts receivable	(603)	(259)	(90)
Equipment installment plan receivables	97	1,089	(2,429)
Inventories	(802)	(2,495)	(499)
Deferred purchase price from sales of receivables	(270)	(185)	(204)
Other current and long-term assets	(133)	(217)	(328)
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	(1,201)	693	2,395
Other current and long-term liabilities	158	22	312
Other, net	71	(15)	22
Net cash provided by operating activities	6,135	5,414	4,146
Investing activities
Purchases of property and equipment, including capitalized interest of $142, $246 and $64	(4,702)	(4,724)	(4,317)
Purchases of spectrum licenses and other intangible assets, including deposits	(3,968)	(1,935)	(2,900)
Purchases of short-term investments	0	(2,997)	0
Sales of short-term investments	2,998	0	0
Other, net	(8)	96	(29)
Net cash used in investing activities	(5,680)	(9,560)	(7,246)
Financing activities
Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt	997	3,979	2,993
Proceeds from tower obligations	0	140	0
Repayments of capital lease obligations	(205)	(57)	(19)
Repayments of short-term debt for purchases of inventory, property and equipment, net	(150)	(564)	(418)
Repayments of long-term debt	(20)	0	(1,000)
Proceeds from exercise of stock options	29	47	27
Proceeds from issuance of preferred stock	0	0	982
Tax withholdings on share-based awards	(121)	(156)	(73)
Dividends on preferred stock	(55)	(55)	0
Other, net	(12)	79	32
Net cash provided by financing activities	463	3,413	2,524
Change in cash and cash equivalents	918	(733)	(576)
Cash and cash equivalents
Beginning of period	4,582	5,315	5,891
End of period	5,500	4,582	5,315
Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information
Interest payments, net of amounts capitalized	1,681	1,298	1,367
Income tax payments	25	54	36
Changes in accounts payable for purchases of property and equipment	285	46	402
Leased devices transferred from inventory to property and equipment	1,588	2,451	0
Returned leased devices transferred from property and equipment to inventory	(602)	(166)	0
Issuance of short-term debt for financing of property and equipment	150	500	256
Assets acquired under capital lease obligations	$ 799	$ 470	$ 77

Consolidated Statements of Cas7

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (Parenthetical) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract]
Capitalized interest	$ 142	$ 246	$ 64

Consolidated Statements of Stoc

Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity - USD ($) $ in Millions	Total	Preferred Stock Outstanding [Member]	Common Stock Outstanding [Member]	Treasury Shares at Cost [Member]	Par Value and Additional Paid-in Capital [Member]	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (loss) [Member]	Accumulated Deficit [Member]
Balance, beginning of period at Dec. 31, 2013	$ 14,245			$ 0	$ 37,330	$ 3	$ (23,088)
Preferred stock, shares outstanding, beginning at Dec. 31, 2013		0
Common stock, shares outstanding, beginning at Dec. 31, 2013			801,879,804
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Net income	247						247
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	(2)					(2)
Issuance of preferred stock, shares		20,000,000
Issuance of preferred stock	982				982
Stock-based compensation	196				196
Exercise of stock options, shares			1,496,365
Exercise of stock options	27				27
Issuance of vested restricted stock units, shares			6,296,107
Shares withheld related to net share settlement of stock awards and stock options, shares			(2,203,673)
Shares withheld related to net share settlement of stock awards and stock options	(73)				(73)
Excess tax benefit from stock-based compensation	34				34
Other	7				7
Preferred stock, shares outstanding, ending at Dec. 31, 2014		20,000,000
Common stock, shares outstanding, ending at Dec. 31, 2014			807,468,603
Balance, ending of period at Dec. 31, 2014	15,663			0	38,503	1	(22,841)
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Net income	733						733
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	(2)					(2)
Issuance of preferred stock	0
Stock-based compensation	227				227
Exercise of stock options, shares			2,381,650
Exercise of stock options	47				47
Stock issued for employee stock purchase plan, shares			761,085
Stock issued for employee stock purchase plan	21				21
Issuance of vested restricted stock units, shares			11,956,345
Shares withheld related to net share settlement of stock awards and stock options, shares			(4,176,464)
Shares withheld related to net share settlement of stock awards and stock options	(156)				(156)
Excess tax benefit from stock-based compensation	79				79
Dividends on preferred stock	$ (55)				(55)
Preferred stock, shares outstanding, ending at Dec. 31, 2015	20,000,000	20,000,000
Common stock, shares outstanding, ending at Dec. 31, 2015	818,391,219		818,391,219
Balance, ending of period at Dec. 31, 2015	$ 16,557			0	38,666	(1)	(22,108)
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Net income	1,460						1,460
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	2					2
Issuance of preferred stock	0
Stock-based compensation	264				264
Exercise of stock options, shares			982,904
Exercise of stock options	29				29
Stock issued for employee stock purchase plan, shares			1,905,534
Stock issued for employee stock purchase plan	63				63
Issuance of vested restricted stock units, shares			7,712,463
Shares withheld related to net share settlement of stock awards and stock options, shares			(2,605,807)
Shares withheld related to net share settlement of stock awards and stock options	(122)				(122)
Transfer RSU to NQDC, shares			(28,982)
Transfer RSU to NQDC	0			(1)	1
Dividends on preferred stock	(55)				(55)
Cumulative Effect on Retained Earnings, Net of Tax	$ 38						38
Preferred stock, shares outstanding, ending at Dec. 31, 2016	20,000,000	20,000,000
Common stock, shares outstanding, ending at Dec. 31, 2016	826,357,331		826,357,331
Balance, ending of period at Dec. 31, 2016	$ 18,236			$ (1)	$ 38,846	$ 1	$ (20,610)

Summary of Significant Accounti

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	Note 1 – Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Description of Business T-Mobile US, Inc. (“T-Mobile,” “we,” “our,” “us” or the “Company”), together with its consolidated subsidiaries, is a leading provider of mobile communications services, including voice, messaging and data, under its flagship brands, T-Mobile and MetroPCS, in the United States (“U.S.”), Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. We provide mobile communications services primarily using 4G Long-Term Evolution (“LTE”) technology. We also offer a wide selection of wireless devices, including handsets, tablets and other mobile communication devices, and accessories for sale, as well as financing through Equipment Installment Plans (“EIP”) and leasing through JUMP On Demand™. Additionally, we provide reinsurance for handset insurance policies and extended warranty contracts offered to our mobile communications customers. Basis of Presentation The consolidated financial statements include the balances and results of operations of T-Mobile and our consolidated subsidiaries. We operate as a single operating segment. We consolidate majority-owned subsidiaries over which we exercise control, as well as variable interest entities (“VIE”) where we are deemed to be the primary beneficiary and VIEs, which cannot be deconsolidated, such as those related to Tower obligations. Intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated in consolidation. Certain prior year amounts relating to the adoption of Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2015-03, “Simplifying the Presentation of Debt Issuance Costs,” have been reclassified to conform to the current presentation. See “Accounting Pronouncements Adopted During the Current Year” below. The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”) requires our management to make estimates and assumptions which affect the financial statements and accompanying notes. Examples include service revenues earned but not yet billed, service revenues billed but not yet earned, relative selling prices, allowances for uncollectible accounts and sales returns, discounts for imputed interest on EIP receivables, guarantee liabilities, losses incurred but not yet reported, tax liabilities, deferred income taxes including valuation allowances, useful lives of long-lived assets, cost estimates of asset retirement obligations, residual values on leased handsets, reasonably assured renewal terms for operating leases, stock-based compensation forfeiture rates, and fair value measurements related to goodwill, spectrum licenses, intangible assets, and derivative financial instruments. Estimates are based on historical experience, where applicable, and other assumptions which our management believes are reasonable under the circumstances. These estimates are inherently subject to judgment and actual results could differ from those estimates. Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash equivalents consist of highly liquid money market funds and U.S. Treasury securities with remaining maturities of three months or less at the date of purchase. Short-Term Investments Our short-term investments consist of U.S. Treasury securities classified as available for sale, which are stated at fair value and have remaining maturities of more than three months at the date of purchase. Unrealized gains and losses, net of related income taxes, on available for sale securities are reported as net increases and decreases to Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (“AOCI”), a component of stockholders' equity, until realized. The estimated fair values of our short-term investments are based on quoted market prices as of the end of the reporting period. The U.S. Treasury securities reported as of December 31, 2015 matured during 2016. We review our available-for-sale securities for impairment on a quarterly basis or more often if a potential loss-triggering event occurs. If there has been a decline in the fair value below the amortized cost basis, we assess whether the impairment is other-than-temporary by considering, among other factors, the reason for the decline in fair value, our intent to sell the security, whether it is more likely than not that we will be required to sell the security before recovery of its amortized cost basis and whether we do not expect to recover the entire amortized cost basis of the security. If we determine the impairment is other-than-temporary, we record a charge to Other expense, net in our Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income . Accounts Receivable and Allowances Accounts receivable consist primarily of amounts billed and currently due from customers, other carriers and third-party retail channels (“dealers”), as well as revenues earned but not yet billed at the end of each period. Accounts receivable not held for sale are reported in the balance sheet at outstanding principal adjusted for any charge-offs and the allowance for credit losses. Accounts receivable held for sale are reported at the lower of amortized cost or fair value. We have an arrangement to sell the majority of service accounts receivable on a revolving basis, which are treated as sales of financial assets. We maintain an allowance for estimated losses inherent in the accounts receivable portfolio based on a number of factors, including historical experience and current collection trends, aging of the receivable portfolio, credit quality of the customer base and other qualitative factors such as macro-economic conditions. We write off account balances if collection efforts are unsuccessful and the receivable balance is deemed uncollectible, based on customer credit ratings and the length of time from the original billing date. Equipment Installment Plan Receivables We offer certain retail customers the option to pay for their devices and other purchases in installments over a period of up to 24 months using an EIP. EIP not held for sale are reported in the balance sheet at outstanding principal adjusted for any charge-offs, allowance for credit losses and unamortized discounts. Accounts receivable held for sale are reported at the lower of amortized cost or fair value. At the time of an installment sale, we impute a discount for interest as there is no stated rate of interest on the EIP receivables and record the EIP receivables at their present value, which is determined by discounting future payments at the imputed interest rate. The difference between the present value of the EIP receivables and their face amount results in a discount which is recorded as a direct reduction to the carrying value with a corresponding reduction to equipment revenues in our Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income . We determine the imputed discount rate based primarily on current market interest rates and the amount of expected credit losses on the EIP receivables. As a result, we do not recognize a separate valuation allowance at the time of issuance as the effects of uncertainty about future cash flows are included in the initial present value measurement of the receivable. The imputed discount on EIP receivables is amortized over the financed installment term using the effective interest method and recognized as Interest income in our Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income . Subsequent to the initial determination of the imputed discount, we assess the need for and, if necessary, recognize an allowance for credit losses to the extent the amount of estimated probable losses on the gross EIP receivable balances exceed the remaining unamortized imputed discount balances. The allowance is based on a number of factors, including collection experience, aging of the EIP receivable portfolio, credit quality of the customer base and other qualitative factors such as macro-economic conditions. We write off account balances if collection efforts are unsuccessful and the receivable balance is deemed uncollectible, based on customer credit ratings and the length of time from the original billing date. Equipment sales not reasonably assured to be collectible are recorded on a cash basis as payments are received. The current portion of the EIP receivables is included in Equipment installment plan receivables, net and the long-term portion of the EIP receivables is included in Equipment installment plan receivables due after one year, net in our Consolidated Balance Sheets . We have an arrangement to sell certain EIP receivables on a revolving basis, which are treated as sales of financial assets. Inventories Inventories consist primarily of wireless devices and accessories, which are valued at the lower of cost or market. Cost is determined using standard cost which approximates average cost. Shipping and handling costs paid to wireless device and accessories vendors, and costs to refurbish used devices recovered through our device upgrade programs are included in the standard cost of inventory. We record inventory write-downs to net realizable value for obsolete and slow-moving items based on inventory turnover trends and historical experience. Long-Lived Assets Long-lived assets include assets that do not have indefinite lives, such as property and equipment and other intangible assets. We assess potential impairments to our long-lived assets when events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying amount of the asset may not be recoverable. If any indicators of impairment are present, we test recoverability. The carrying value of a long-lived asset or asset group is not recoverable if it exceeds the sum of the undiscounted cash flows expected to be generated from the use and eventual disposition of the asset or asset group. If the undiscounted cash flows do not exceed the asset or asset group’s carrying amount, then an impairment loss is recorded, measured as the amount by which the carrying amount of a long-lived asset or asset group exceeds its fair value. Property and Equipment Property and equipment consists of buildings and equipment, wireless communication systems, leasehold improvements, capitalized software, leased wireless devices and construction in progress. Buildings and equipment include certain network server equipment. Wireless communication systems include assets to operate our wireless network and IT data centers, including tower assets and leasehold improvements, assets related to the liability for the retirement of long-lived assets and capital leases. Leasehold improvements include asset improvements other than those related to the wireless network. Property and equipment are recorded at cost less accumulated depreciation and impairments, if any, in Property and equipment, net on our Consolidated Balance Sheets . We generally depreciate property and equipment over the period the property and equipment provide economic benefit. Depreciable life studies are performed periodically to confirm the appropriateness of useful lives for certain categories of property and equipment. These studies take into account actual usage, physical wear and tear, replacement history and assumptions about technology evolution. When these factors indicate the useful life of an asset is different from the previous assessment, the remaining book value is depreciated prospectively over the adjusted remaining estimated useful life. Leasehold improvements are depreciated over the shorter of their estimated useful lives or the related lease term. In 2015, we introduced JUMP! On Demand which allows customers to lease a device over a period up to 18 months and upgrade it for a new one up to three times in a 12 month period. To date, all of our leased devices were classified as operating leases by considering critical elements of the lease arrangement such as the lease term and the economic life, fair value and residual value of the device. At operating lease inception, leased wireless devices are transferred from inventory to property and equipment. Leased wireless devices are depreciated to their estimated residual value over the period expected to provide utility to us, which is generally the lease term. Revenues associated with the leased wireless devices, net of incentives, are generally recognized over the lease term. Upon device upgrade or at lease end, customers must return or purchase their device. Returned devices transferred from Property and equipment, net are recorded as inventory and are valued at the lower of cost or market with any write-down to market recognized as Cost of equipment sales in our Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income . Costs of major replacements and improvements are capitalized. Repair and maintenance expenditures which do not enhance or extend the asset’s useful life are charged to operating expenses as incurred. Construction costs, labor and overhead incurred in the expansion or enhancement of our wireless network are capitalized. Capitalization commences with pre-construction period administrative and technical activities, which includes obtaining leases, zoning approvals and building permits, and ceases at the point at which the asset is ready for its intended use. We capitalize interest associated with the acquisition or construction of certain property and equipment. Capitalized interest is reported as a reduction in interest expense and depreciated over the useful life of the related assets. Future obligations related to capital leases are included in Short-term debt and Long-term debt in our Consolidated Balance Sheets . Depreciation of assets held under capital leases is included in Depreciation and amortization expense in our Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income . We record an asset retirement obligation for the fair value of legal obligations associated with the retirement of tangible long-lived assets and a corresponding increase in the carrying amount of the related asset in the period in which the obligation is incurred. In periods subsequent to initial measurement, we recognize changes in the liability resulting from the passage of time and revisions to either the timing or the amount of the original estimate. Over time, the liability is accreted to its present value and the capitalized cost is depreciated over the estimated useful life of the asset. Our obligations relate primarily to certain legal obligations to remediate leased property on which our network infrastructure and administrative assets are located. We capitalize certain costs incurred in connection with developing or acquiring internal use software. Capitalization of software costs commences once the final selection of the specific software solution has been made and management authorizes and commits to funding the software project. Capitalized software costs are included in Property and equipment, net in our Consolidated Balance Sheets and are amortized on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful life of the asset. Costs incurred during the preliminary project stage, as well as maintenance and training costs are expensed as incurred. Other Intangible Assets Intangible assets that do not have indefinite useful lives are amortized over their estimated useful lives. Customer lists are amortized using the sum-of-the-years-digits method over the expected period in which the relationship is expected to contribute to future cash flows. The remaining finite-lived intangible assets are amortized using the straight-line method. Goodwill and Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets Goodwill Goodwill consists of the excess of the purchase price over the fair value of identifiable net assets acquired in a business combination. Spectrum Licenses Spectrum licenses are carried at costs incurred to acquire the spectrum licenses and the costs to prepare the spectrum licenses for their intended use, such as costs to clear acquired spectrum licenses. The Federal Communications Commission (“FCC”) issues spectrum licenses which provide us with the exclusive right to utilize designated radio frequency spectrum within specific geographic service areas to provide wireless communication services. While spectrum licenses are issued for a fixed period of time, typically for up to fifteen years, the FCC has granted license renewals routinely and at a nominal cost. The spectrum licenses held by us expire at various dates. We believe we will be able to meet all requirements necessary to secure renewal of our spectrum licenses at nominal costs. Moreover, we determined there are currently no legal, regulatory, contractual, competitive, economic or other factors that limit the useful lives of our spectrum licenses. Therefore, we determined the spectrum licenses should be treated as indefinite-lived intangible assets. At times, we enter into agreements to sell or exchange spectrum licenses. Upon entering into the arrangement, if the transaction has been deemed to have commercial substance, spectrum licenses are reviewed for impairment and transferred at their carrying value, net of any impairment, to assets held for sale included in Other current assets in our Consolidated Balance Sheets until approval and completion of the exchange or sale. Upon closing of the transaction, spectrum licenses acquired as part of an exchange of nonmonetary assets are valued at fair value and the difference between the fair value of the spectrum licenses obtained, book value of the spectrum licenses transferred and cash paid, if any, is recognized as a gain and included in Gains on disposal of spectrum licenses in our Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income . Our fair value estimates of spectrum licenses are based on information for which there is little or no observable market data. If the transaction lacks commercial substance or the fair value is not measurable, the acquired spectrum licenses are recorded at the book value of the assets transferred or exchanged. Impairment We assess the carrying value of our goodwill and other indefinite-lived intangible assets, such as our spectrum licenses, for potential impairment annually as of December 31, or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate such assets might be impaired. We may elect to first perform a qualitative assessment to determine whether it is more likely than not the fair value of the single reporting unit is less than its carrying amount as a basis for determining whether it is necessary to perform the two-step goodwill impairment test. If we do not perform a qualitative assessment, or if the qualitative assessment indicates it is more likely than not the fair value of the single reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, goodwill is tested for impairment based on a two-step test. In the first step, we compare the fair value of the reporting unit to the carrying value. The fair value of the reporting unit is determined using a market approach, which is based on market capitalization. If the fair value is less than the carrying value, the second step is performed. In the second step, we determine the fair values of all of the assets and liabilities of the reporting unit, including those that may not be currently recorded. The excess of the fair value of the reporting unit over the sum of the fair value of all of those assets and liabilities represents the implied goodwill amount. If the implied fair value of goodwill is lower than its carrying amount, an impairment loss is recognized for the difference. We test our spectrum licenses for impairment on an aggregate basis, consistent with our management of the overall business at a national level. We may elect to first perform a qualitative assessment to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of an intangible asset group is less than its carrying value. If we do not perform the qualitative assessment, or if the qualitative assessment indicates it is more likely than not the fair value of the intangible asset group is less than its carrying amount, we calculate the estimated fair value of the intangible asset group. If the estimated fair value of the spectrum licenses is lower than their carrying amount, an impairment loss is recognized for the difference. We estimate fair value using the Greenfield approach, which is an income approach, to estimate the price at which an orderly transaction to sell the asset would take place between market participants at the measurement date under current market conditions. Guarantee Liabilities We offer a device trade-in program, Just Upgrade My Phone (“JUMP!”), which provides eligible customers a specified-price trade-in right to upgrade their device. Participating customers must finance the purchase of a device on an EIP and have a qualifying T-Mobile monthly wireless service plan, which is treated as a single multiple-element arrangement when entered into at or near the same time. Upon a qualifying JUMP! program upgrade, the customer’s remaining EIP balance is settled provided they trade-in their eligible used device in good working condition and purchase a new device from us on a new EIP. For customers who enroll in JUMP!, we defer and recognize a liability for the portion of revenue which represents the estimated fair value of the specified-price trade-in right guarantee. The guarantee liability is valued based on various economic and customer behavioral assumptions, which requires judgment, including estimating the customer's remaining EIP balance at trade-in, the expected fair value of the used device at trade-in, and the probability and timing of trade-in. We assess our guarantee liability at each reporting date to determine if facts and circumstances would indicate the incurrence of an incremental contingent liability is probable and if so, reasonably estimable. The recognition and subsequent adjustments of the contingent guarantee liability as a result of these assessments are recorded as adjustments to revenue. When customers upgrade their device, the difference between the EIP balance credit to the customer and the fair value of the returned device is recorded against the guarantee liabilities. Fair Value Measurements We carry certain assets and liabilities at fair value. Fair value is defined as an exit price, representing the amount that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. The three tier hierarchy for inputs used in measuring fair value, which prioritizes the inputs based on the observability as of the measurement date, is as follows: Level 1 Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities; Level 2 Observable inputs other than the quoted prices in active markets for identical assets and liabilities; and Level 3 Unobservable inputs for which there is little or no market data, which require us to develop assumptions of what market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability. Assets and liabilities are classified in their entirety based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement. Our assessment of the significance of a particular input to the fair value measurement requires judgment, and may affect the placement of assets and liabilities being measured within the fair value hierarchy. The carrying values of cash and cash equivalents, short-term investments, accounts receivable, accounts receivable from affiliates and accounts payable approximate fair value due to the short-term maturities of these instruments. The carrying values of EIP receivables approximate fair value as the receivables are recorded at their present value, net of unamortized discount and allowance for credit losses. There were no financial instruments with a carrying value materially different from their fair value, based on quoted market prices or rates for the same or similar instruments, or internal valuation models. Derivative Financial Instruments Derivative financial instruments primarily relate to embedded derivatives for certain components of the reset feature of the Senior Reset Notes to affiliates, which are required to be bifurcated and are recorded on the Consolidated Balance Sheets at fair value. Changes in fair value are recognized in Interest expense to affiliates in our Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income . We do not enter into derivatives for trading or speculative purposes. Revenue Recognition We primarily generate our revenue from providing wireless services to customers and selling or leasing devices and accessories. We offer our wireless services and devices to customers through bundled arrangements, which may be comprised of multiple contracts entered into with a customer at or near the same time. In recognizing revenue, we assess such agreements as a single bundled arrangement that may involve multiple deliverables, which include wireless services, wireless devices or a combination thereof, and allocated revenue between each deliverable based on the relative selling prices of each deliverable on a standalone basis. In June 2016, we introduced #GetThanked, which offers eligible customers the following free promotional items as part of their T-Mobile service: • T-Mobile stock - A share of T-Mobile stock to eligible new (through December 31, 2016) or existing (as of June 6, 2016) customers. Shares issued to customers under this promotion are purchased by an independent third-party broker in the open market on behalf of eligible customers. The associated cost, which is paid by T-Mobile, is recorded as a reduction of service revenue for existing customers and as a reduction of equipment revenue for new customers in our Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income . Through December 31, 2016, existing eligible customers can also receive a share of T-Mobile stock (subject to a maximum of 100 shares in a calendar year) for every new active account they refer, purchased by the third-party broker and paid for by T-Mobile. The cost of shares issued under this refer-a-friend program are included in Selling, general and administrative expense in our Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income ; • Weekly surprise items - Each Tuesday, eligible customers who download the T-Mobile Tuesday app are informed about and can redeem products and services offered by participating business partners. The associated cost is included in Selling, general and administrative expense in our Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income ; and • In-flight Wi-Fi - A full hour of in-flight Wi-Fi free to eligible customers on their smartphone on all Gogo-equipped domestic flights. The associated cost, which is paid by T-Mobile, is included in Cost of services in our Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income . Wireless Services Revenue We generate our wireless service revenues from providing access to, and usage of, our wireless communications network. Service revenues also include revenues earned for providing value added services to customers, such as handset insurance services. Service revenues are billed either in advance or arrears or are prepaid and are recognized when the service is rendered and all other revenue recognition criteria have been met. Revenues that are not reasonably assured to be collectible are recorded on a cash basis as payments are received. The recognition of prepaid revenue is deferred until services are rendered or the prepaid balance expires. Incentives given to customers are recorded as a reduction to revenue. We recognize service revenues for Data Stash plans when such services are delivered and the data is consumed, or at time of forfeiture or expiration. Revenues relating to unused data that is carried over to the following month are deferred and valued based on their relative standalone selling price. Revenue is recorded gross for arrangements involving the resale of third-party services where we are considered the primary obligor and is recorded net of associated costs incurred for services whereby we are not considered the primary obligor. Federal Universal Service Fund (“USF”) and other fees are assessed by various governmental authorities in connection with the services we provide to our customers. When we separately bill and collect these regulatory fees from customers, they are recorded gross in Total service revenues and cost of services in our Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income . For the years ended December 31, 2016 , 2015 and 2014 , we recorded approximately $409 million , $334 million and $349 million , respectively, of USF and other fees on a gross basis. Equipment Revenues We generate equipment revenues from the sale or lease of mobile communication devices and accessories. Device and accessory sales revenues are generally recognized when the products are delivered to, and accepted by, the customer or dealer. We defer a portion of equipment revenues and cost of equipment sales for expected device returns based on historical experience. We offer certain customers the option to pay for devices and accessories in installments using an EIP. See EIP Receivables section above for further information. In addition, for customers enrolled in JUMP!, we separate the JUMP! trade-in right from the multiple element arrangement at its fair value and defer the portion of revenue which represents the fair value of the trade-in right. See Guarantee Liabilities section above for further information. In 2015, we introduced JUMP! On Demand, which allows customers to lease a device and upgrade their leased wireless device for a new one up to three times in a 12 month period. Leased wireless devices are accounted for as operating leases and lease revenues are recognized as earned on a straight-line basis over the lease term. The residual value of purchased leased devices is recorded as equipment revenues and cost of equipment sales. See Property and Equipment section above for further information. Rent Expense We have operating leases for cell sites, retail locations, corporate offices and dedicated transportation lines, some of which have escalating rentals during the initial lease term and during subsequent optional renewal periods. We recognize rent expense on a straight-line basis, over the non-cancelable lease term and renewal periods that are considered reasonably assured at the inception of the lease. We consider several factors in assessing whether renewal periods are reasonably assured of being exercised, including the continued maturation of our network nationwide, technological advances within the telecommunications industry and the availability of alternative sites. Advertising Expense We expense the cost of advertising and other promotional expenditures to market our services and products as incurred. For the years ended December 31, 2016 , 2015 and 2014 , advertising expenses included in Selling, general and administrative expenses in our Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income were $1.7 billion , $1.6 billion and $1.4 billion , respectively. Income Taxes Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized based on temporary differences between the financial statement and tax bases of assets and liabilities using enacted tax rates expected to be in effect when these differences are realized. A valuation allowance is recorded when it is more likely than not that some portion or all of a deferred tax asset will not be realized. The ultimate realization of a deferred tax asset depends on the ability to generate sufficient taxable income of the appropriate character and in the appropriate taxing jurisdictions within the carryforward periods available. We account for uncertainty in income taxes recognized in the financial statements in accordance with the accounting guidance on the financial statement recognition and measurement of a tax position taken or expected to be taken in a tax return. We assess whether it is more likely than not that a tax position will be sustained upon examination based on the technical merits of the position and adjust the unrecognized tax benefits in light of changes in facts and circumstances, such as changes in tax law, interactions with taxing authorities and developments in case law. Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Other comprehensive income (loss) consists of adjustments, net of tax, related to unrealized gains (losses) on available-for-sale securities. This is reported in AOCI as a separate component of stockholders’ equity until realized in earnings. Stock-Based Compensation Stock-based compensation cost for stock awards, which include restricted stock units (“RSUs”) and performance-based restricted stock units (“PRSUs”), is measured at fair value on the grant date and recognized as expe

Equipment Installment Plan Rece

Equipment Installment Plan Receivables	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Receivables [Abstract]
Equipment Installment Plan Receivables	Note 2 – Equipment Installment Plan Receivables We offer certain retail customers the option to pay for their devices and accessories in installments over a period of up to 24 months using an EIP. The following table summarizes the EIP receivables: (in millions) December 31, December 31, EIP receivables, gross $ 3,230 $ 3,558 Unamortized imputed discount (195 ) (185 ) EIP receivables, net of unamortized imputed discount 3,035 3,373 Allowance for credit losses (121 ) (148 ) EIP receivables, net $ 2,914 $ 3,225 Classified on the balance sheet as: Equipment installment plan receivables, net $ 1,930 $ 2,378 Equipment installment plan receivables due after one year, net 984 847 EIP receivables, net $ 2,914 $ 3,225 We use a proprietary credit scoring model that measures the credit quality of a customer at the time of application for mobile communications service using several factors, such as credit bureau information, consumer credit risk scores and service plan characteristics. Based upon customer credit profiles, we classify EIP receivables into the credit categories of “Prime” and “Subprime.” Prime customer receivables are those with lower delinquency risk and Subprime customer receivables are those with higher delinquency risk. Subprime customers may be required to make a down payment on their equipment purchases. In addition, certain customers within the Subprime category are required to pay an advance deposit. EIP receivables for which invoices have not yet been generated for the customer are classified as Unbilled. EIP receivables for which invoices have been generated but which are not past the contractual due date are classified as Billed – Current. EIP receivables for which invoices have been generated and the payment is past the contractual due date are classified as Billed – Past Due. The balance and aging of the EIP receivables on a gross basis by credit category were as follows: December 31, 2016 December 31, 2015 (in millions) Prime Subprime Total Prime Subprime Total Unbilled $ 1,343 $ 1,686 $ 3,029 $ 1,593 $ 1,698 $ 3,291 Billed – Current 51 77 128 77 91 168 Billed – Past Due 25 48 73 37 62 99 EIP receivables, gross $ 1,419 $ 1,811 $ 3,230 $ 1,707 $ 1,851 $ 3,558 The increase in subprime EIP receivables as a percentage of total EIP receivables is primarily due to the EIP sale arrangement funding increase during the year ended December 31, 2016 . Activity for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 in the unamortized imputed discount and allowance for credit losses balances for the EIP receivables was as follows: (in millions) December 31, December 31, Imputed discount and allowance for credit losses, beginning of year $ 333 $ 448 Bad debt expense 250 365 Write-offs, net of recoveries (277 ) (333 ) Change in imputed discount on short-term and long-term EIP receivables 186 (84 ) Impacts from sales of EIP receivables (176 ) (63 ) Imputed discount and allowance for credit losses, end of year $ 316 $ 333 The EIP receivables had weighted average effective imputed interest rates of 9.0% and 8.8% as of December 31, 2016 and 2015 , respectively.

Sales of Certain Receivables

Sales of Certain Receivables	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Transfers and Servicing [Abstract]
Sales of Certain Receivables	Note 3 – Sales of Certain Receivables We have entered into transactions to sell certain service and EIP accounts receivables. The transactions, including our continuing involvement with the sold receivables and the respective impacts to our financial statements, are described below. Sales of Service Receivables Overview of the Transaction In 2014, we entered into an arrangement to sell certain service accounts receivables on a revolving basis with a maximum funding commitment of $750 million (the “service receivable sale arrangement”). In November 2016, the arrangement was amended to increase the maximum funding commitment to $950 million with a scheduled expiration date in March 2018 . As of December 31, 2016 and 2015 , the service receivable sale arrangement provided funding of $907 million and $750 million , respectively. Sales of receivables occur daily and are settled on a monthly basis. The receivables consist of service charges currently due from customers and are short-term in nature. In connection with the service receivable sale arrangement, we formed a wholly-owned subsidiary, which qualifies as a bankruptcy remote entity to sell service accounts receivables (the “Service BRE”). The Service BRE does not qualify as a Variable Interest Entity (“VIE”), and due to the significant level of control we exercise over the entity, it is consolidated. Pursuant to the arrangement, certain of our wholly-owned subsidiaries transfer selected receivables to the Service BRE. The Service BRE then sells the receivables to an unaffiliated entity (the “Service VIE”), which was established to facilitate the sale of beneficial ownership interests in the receivables to certain third parties. Variable Interest Entity We determined that the Service VIE qualifies as a VIE as it lacks sufficient equity to finance its activities. We have a variable interest in the Service VIE, but are not the primary beneficiary as we lack the power to direct the activities that most significantly impact the Service VIE’s economic performance. Those activities include committing the Service VIE to legal agreements to purchase or sell assets, selecting which receivables are purchased in the service receivable sale arrangement, determining whether the Service VIE will sell interests in the purchased service receivables to other parties, funding of the entities and servicing of receivables. We do not hold the power to direct the key decisions underlying these activities. For example, while we act as the servicer of the sold receivables, which is considered a significant activity of the Service VIE, we are acting as an agent in our capacity as the servicer and the counterparty to the service receivable sale arrangement has the ability to remove us as the servicing agent of the receivables at will with no recourse available to us. As we have determined we are not the primary beneficiary, the results of the Service VIE are not consolidated into our consolidated financial statements . The following table summarizes the carrying amounts and classification of assets, which consists primarily of the deferred purchase price and liabilities included in our Consolidated Balance Sheets that relate to our variable interest in the Service VIE: (in millions) December 31, December 31, Other current assets $ 207 $ 206 Accounts payable and accrued liabilities 17 — Other current liabilities 129 73 Sales of EIP Receivables Overview of the Transaction In 2015, we entered into an arrangement to sell certain EIP accounts receivables on a revolving basis with a maximum funding commitment of $800 million (the “EIP sale arrangement”). In June 2016, the EIP sale arrangement was amended to increase the maximum funding commitment to $1.3 billion with a scheduled expiration date in November 2017 . As of December 31, 2016 and 2015 , the EIP sale arrangement provided funding of $1.2 billion and $800 million , respectively. Sales of EIP receivables occur daily and are settled on a monthly basis. The receivables consist of customer EIP balances, which require monthly customer payments for up to 24 months. In connection with this EIP sale arrangement, we formed a wholly-owned subsidiary, which qualifies as a bankruptcy remote entity (the “EIP BRE”). Pursuant to the EIP sale arrangement, our wholly-owned subsidiary transfers selected receivables to the EIP BRE. The EIP BRE then sells the receivables to a non-consolidated and unaffiliated third-party entity for which we do not exercise any level of control, nor does the entity qualify as a VIE. Variable Interest Entity We determined that the EIP BRE is a VIE as its equity investment at risk lacks the obligation to absorb a certain portion of its expected losses. We have a variable interest in the EIP BRE and determined that we are the primary beneficiary based on our ability to direct the activities which most significantly impact the EIP BRE’s economic performance. Those activities include selecting which receivables are transferred into the EIP BRE and sold in the EIP sale arrangement and funding of the EIP BRE. Additionally, our equity interest in the EIP BRE obligates us to absorb losses and gives us the right to receive benefits from the EIP BRE that could potentially be significant to the EIP BRE. Accordingly, we determined that we are the primary beneficiary, and include the balances and results of operations of the EIP BRE in our consolidated financial statements . The following table summarizes the carrying amounts and classification of assets (primarily the deferred purchase price) and liabilities included in our Consolidated Balance Sheets that relate to the EIP BRE: (in millions) December 31, December 31, Other current assets $ 371 $ 164 Other assets 83 44 Accounts payable and accrued liabilities — 14 Other long-term liabilities 4 3 In addition, the EIP BRE is a separate legal entity with its own separate creditors who will be entitled, prior to any liquidation of the EIP BRE, to be satisfied prior to any value in the EIP BRE becoming available to us. Accordingly, the assets of the EIP BRE may not be used to settle our general obligations and creditors of the EIP BRE have limited recourse to our general credit. Sales of Receivables The transfers of service receivables and EIP receivables to the non-consolidated entities are accounted for as sales of financial assets. Once identified for sale, the receivable is recorded at the lower of cost or fair value. Upon sale, we derecognize the net carrying amount of the receivables. We recognize the net cash proceeds in Net cash provided by operating activities in our Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows . The proceeds are net of the deferred purchase price, consisting of a receivable from the purchasers that entitles us to certain collections on the receivables. We recognize the collection of the deferred purchase price in Net cash provided by operating activities as it is dependent on collection of the customer receivables and is not subject to significant interest rate risk. The deferred purchase price represents a financial asset that is primarily tied to the creditworthiness of the customers and which can be settled in such a way that we may not recover substantially all of our recorded investment, due to default by the customers on the underlying receivables. We elected, at inception, to measure the deferred purchase price at fair value with changes in fair value included in Selling, general and administrative expense in our Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income . The fair value of the deferred purchase price is determined based on a discounted cash flow model which uses primarily unobservable inputs (Level 3 inputs), including customer default rates. As of December 31, 2016 and 2015 , our deferred purchase price related to the sales of service receivables and EIP receivables was $659 million and $389 million , respectively. The following table summarizes the impacts of the sale of certain service receivables and EIP receivables in our Consolidated Balance Sheets : (in millions) December 31, December 31, Derecognized net service receivables and EIP receivables $ 2,502 $ 1,850 Other current assets 578 370 of which, deferred purchase price 576 345 Other long-term assets 83 44 of which, deferred purchase price 83 44 Accounts payable and accrued liabilities 17 14 Other current liabilities 129 73 Other long-term liabilities 4 3 Net cash proceeds since inception 2,030 1,494 Of which: Net cash proceeds during the year-to-date period 536 884 Net cash proceeds funded by reinvested collections 1,494 610 We recognized losses from sales of receivables of $228 million , $204 million and $179 million for the years ended December 31, 2016 , 2015 and 2014 , respectively. These losses from sales of receivables were recognized in Selling, general and administrative expense in our Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income . Losses from sales of receivables include adjustments to the receivables’ fair values and changes in fair value of the deferred purchase price. Continuing Involvement Pursuant to the sale arrangements described above, we have continuing involvement with the service receivables and EIP receivables we sell as we service the receivables and are required to repurchase certain receivables, including ineligible receivables, aged receivables and receivables where write-off is imminent. We continue to service the customers and their related receivables, including facilitating customer payment collection, in exchange for a monthly servicing fee. As the receivables are sold on a revolving basis, the customer payment collections on sold receivables may be reinvested in new receivable sales. While servicing the receivables, we apply the same policies and procedures to the sold receivables as we apply to our owned receivables, and we continue to maintain normal relationships with our customers. Pursuant to the EIP sale arrangement, under certain circumstances, we are required to deposit cash or replacement EIP receivables primarily for contracts terminated by customers under our JUMP! Program. In addition, we have continuing involvement with the sold receivables as we may be responsible for absorbing additional credit losses pursuant to the sale arrangements. Our maximum exposure to loss related to the involvement with the service receivables and EIP receivables sold under the sale arrangements was $1.1 billion as of December 31, 2016 . The maximum exposure to loss, which is a required disclosure under GAAP, represents an estimated loss that would be incurred under severe, hypothetical circumstances whereby we would not receive the deferred purchase price portion of the contractual proceeds withheld by the purchasers and would also be required to repurchase the maximum amount of receivables pursuant to the sale arrangements without consideration for any recovery. As we believe the probability of these circumstances occurring is remote, the maximum exposure to loss is not an indication of our expected loss.

Property and Equipment Property

Property and Equipment Property and Equipment	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Property and Equipment [Abstract]
Property and Equipment	Note 4 – Property and Equipment The components of property and equipment were as follows: (in millions) Useful Lives December 31, December 31, Buildings and equipment Up to 40 years $ 1,657 $ 1,900 Wireless communications systems Up to 20 years 29,272 27,063 Leasehold improvements Up to 12 years 1,068 1,003 Capitalized software Up to 7 years 8,488 8,524 Leased wireless devices Up to 18 months 2,624 2,236 Construction in progress 2,613 2,466 Accumulated depreciation and amortization (24,779 ) (23,192 ) Property and equipment, net $ 20,943 $ 20,000 Wireless communication systems include capital lease agreements for network equipment with varying expiration terms through 2030 . Capital lease assets and accumulated amortization were $1.6 billion and $300 million , and $839 million and $117 million , as of December 31, 2016 and 2015 , respectively. We capitalize interest associated with the acquisition or construction of certain property and equipment. We recognized capitalized interest of $142 million , $230 million and $81 million for the years ended December 31, 2016 , 2015 and 2014 , respectively. The components of leased wireless devices under our JUMP! On Demand program were as follows: (in millions) December 31, December 31, Leased wireless devices, gross $ 2,624 $ 2,236 Accumulated depreciation (1,193 ) (263 ) Leased wireless devices, net $ 1,431 $ 1,973 Future minimum payments expected to be received over the lease term related to the leased wireless devices, which exclude optional residual buy-out amounts at the end of the lease term, are summarized below: (in millions) Total Year Ending December 31, 2017 $ 710 2018 92 Total $ 802 Depreciation expense relating to property and equipment was $6.0 billion , $4.4 billion and $4.1 billion for the years ended December 31, 2016 , 2015 and 2014 , respectively. Depreciation expense for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 included $1.5 billion and $312 million , respectively, related to leased wireless devices. For the years ended December 31, 2016 , 2015 and 2014 , we recorded additional depreciation expense of $101 million , $85 million and $242 million , respectively, as a result of adjustments to useful lives of network equipment expected to be replaced in connection with our network transformation and decommissioning the MetroPCS CDMA network and redundant network cell sites. Asset retirement obligations are primarily for certain legal obligations to remediate leased property on which our network infrastructure and administrative assets are located. Activity in our asset retirement obligations was as follows: (in millions) December 31, December 31, Asset retirement obligations, beginning of year $ 483 $ 390 Liabilities incurred 50 19 Liabilities settled (67 ) (130 ) Accretion expense 24 17 Changes in estimated cash flows 49 187 Asset retirement obligations, end of year $ 539 $ 483 Classified on the balance sheet as: Other current liabilities $ 16 $ 41 Other long-term liabilities 523 442 Asset retirement obligations $ 539 $ 483 The corresponding assets, net of accumulated depreciation, related to asset retirement obligations were $258 million and $241 million as of December 31, 2016 and 2015 , respectively. For the year ended December 31, 2015 , we settled asset retirement obligations in connection with the decommissioning of certain cell sites. Due to new information gained throughout 2015 , primarily from decommissioning the MetroPCS CDMA network cell sites, we reassessed the expected cash flows related to its asset retirement obligations for all remaining T-Mobile network cell sites. As a result, we recorded asset retirement obligations and corresponding assets in the fourth quarter of 2015 to reflect the change in estimated cash flows.

Goodwill, Spectrum Licenses and

Goodwill, Spectrum Licenses and Other Intangible Assets	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Goodwill, Spectrum Licenses and Other Intangible Assets	Note 5 – Goodwill, Spectrum Licenses and Other Intangible Assets Goodwill There were no changes in carrying values of goodwill for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 . Spectrum Licenses The following table summarizes our spectrum license activity: (in millions) December 31, 2016 December 31, 2015 Spectrum licenses, beginning of year $ 23,955 $ 21,955 Spectrum license acquisitions 3,334 2,615 Spectrum licenses transferred to held for sale (324 ) (727 ) Costs to clear spectrum 49 112 Spectrum licenses, end of year $ 27,014 $ 23,955 We had the following spectrum license transactions during 2016 : • We closed on the agreement with AT&T Inc. for the acquisition and exchange of certain spectrum licenses. Upon closing of the transaction during the first quarter of 2016 , we recorded the spectrum licenses received at their estimated fair value of approximately $1.2 billion and recognized a gain of $636 million included in Gains on disposal of spectrum licenses in our Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income . • We closed on agreements with multiple third parties for the purchase and exchange of certain spectrum licenses for $1.3 billion in cash. Upon closing of the transactions, we recorded spectrum licenses received at their estimated fair values totaling approximately $1.7 billion and recognized gains of $199 million included in Gains on disposal of spectrum licenses in our Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income . • We closed on an agreement with a third party for the purchase of certain spectrum licenses covering approximately 11 million people for approximately $420 million during the fourth quarter of 2016 . • We entered into an agreement with a third party for the exchange of certain spectrum licenses, which is expected to close in the first half of 2017. Our spectrum licenses to be transferred as part of the exchange transaction were reclassified as assets held for sale and were included in Other current assets in our Consolidated Balance Sheets at their carrying value of $86 million as of December 31, 2016 . We had the following spectrum license transactions during 2015 : • Upon conclusion of the 2014 Advanced Wireless Services (“AWS”) auction, we were awarded AWS spectrum licenses covering approximately 97 million people for an aggregate bid price of approximately $1.8 billion . • We closed on the agreement with Verizon Communications Inc. for the exchange of certain spectrum licenses. Upon closing of the transaction, we recorded the spectrum licenses received at their estimated fair value of $311 million and recognized a non-cash gain of $139 million included in Gains on disposal of spectrum licenses in our Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income . • We closed on agreements with multiple third parties for the purchase and exchange of certain spectrum licenses for $459 million in cash. Upon closing of the transactions, we recorded spectrum licenses received at their estimated fair values totaling approximately $530 million and recognized gains of $24 million included in Gains on disposal of spectrum licenses in our Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income . • We entered into multiple agreements with third parties for the exchange of certain spectrum licenses. Our spectrum licenses to be transferred as part of the exchange transaction were reclassified as assets held for sale and were included in Other current assets in our Consolidated Balance Sheets at their carrying value of $554 million as of December 31, 2015 . Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets Impairment Assessments Our impairment assessment of goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets (spectrum licenses) resulted in no impairment as of December 31, 2016 and 2015 . Other Intangible Assets The components of intangible assets were as follows: Useful Lives December 31, 2016 December 31, 2015 (in millions) Gross Accumulated Amortization Net Gross Accumulated Amortization Net Customer lists Up to 6 years $ 1,104 $ (894 ) $ 210 $ 1,104 $ (719 ) $ 385 Trademarks and patents Up to 12 years 303 (156 ) 147 300 (115 ) 185 Other Up to 28 years 50 (31 ) 19 51 (27 ) 24 Other intangible assets $ 1,457 $ (1,081 ) $ 376 $ 1,455 $ (861 ) $ 594 Amortization expense for intangible assets subject to amortization was $220 million , $276 million and $333 million for the years ended December 31, 2016 , 2015 and 2014 , respectively. The estimated aggregate future amortization expense for intangible assets subject to amortization are summarized below: (in millions) Estimated Future Amortization Year Ending December 31, 2017 $ 163 2018 104 2019 52 2020 34 2021 14 Thereafter 9 Total $ 376

Fair Value Measurements and Der

Fair Value Measurements and Derivative Instruments	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair Value Measurements and Derivative Instruments	Note 6 – Fair Value Measurements and Derivative Instruments Embedded Derivative Instruments In connection with the business combination with MetroPCS, we issued senior reset notes to Deutsche Telekom. The interest rates were adjusted at the reset dates to rates defined in the applicable supplemental indentures to manage interest rate risk related to the senior reset notes. We determined certain components of the reset feature are required to be bifurcated from the senior reset notes and separately accounted for as embedded derivative instruments. As of December 31, 2015 , one embedded derivative related to the 5.950% Senior Reset Notes to affiliates due 2023 was subject to interest rate volatility. In April 2016 , the interest rate related to the 5.950% Senior Reset Notes to affiliates due 2023 was adjusted from 5.950% to 9.332% . See Note 7 – Debt for further information. As of December 31, 2016 , there were no embedded derivatives subject to interest rate volatility related to the Senior Reset Notes to affiliates. The fair value of our embedded derivatives was determined using a lattice-based valuation model by determining the fair value of the senior reset notes with and without the embedded derivatives included. The fair value of the senior reset notes with the embedded derivatives utilizes the contractual term of each senior reset note, reset rates calculated based on the spread between specified yield curves and the yield curve on certain T-Mobile long-term debt adjusted pursuant to the applicable supplemental indentures and interest rate volatility. Interest rate volatility is a significant unobservable input (Level 3) as it is derived based on weighted risk-free rate volatility and credit spread volatility. Significant increases or decreases in the weighting of risk-free volatility and credit spread volatility, in isolation, would result in a higher or lower fair value of the embedded derivatives. The embedded derivatives were classified as Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy. The fair value of embedded derivative instruments by balance sheet location and level were as follows: December 31, 2016 (in millions) Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Total Other long-term liabilities $ — $ — $ 118 $ 118 December 31, 2015 (in millions) Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Total Other long-term liabilities $ — $ — $ 143 $ 143 The following table summarizes the gain (loss) activity related to embedded derivatives instruments recognized in Interest expense to affiliates: Year Ended December 31, (in millions) 2016 2015 2014 Embedded derivatives $ 25 $ (148 ) $ 18 Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis The carrying amounts and fair values of our short-term investments and long-term debt included in our Consolidated Balance Sheets were as follows: Level within the Fair Value Hierarchy December 31, 2016 December 31, 2015 (in millions) Carrying Amount Fair Value Carrying Amount Fair Value Assets: Short-term investments 1 $ — $ — $ 2,998 $ 2,998 Deferred purchase price assets 3 659 659 389 389 Liabilities: Senior Notes to third parties 1 $ 18,600 $ 19,584 $ 17,600 $ 18,098 Senior Reset Notes to affiliates 2 5,600 5,955 5,600 6,072 Senior Secured Term Loans 2 1,980 2,005 2,000 1,990 Guarantee Liabilities 3 135 135 163 163 Short-term Investments The fair value of our short-term investments as of December 31, 2015 , which consisted of U.S. Treasury securities, was determined based on quoted market prices in active markets, and therefore was classified as Level 1 in the fair value hierarchy. We did not have any short-term investments as of December 31, 2016 . Long-term Debt The fair value of our Senior Notes to third parties was determined based on quoted market prices in active markets, and therefore was classified as Level 1 in the fair value hierarchy. The fair value of the Senior Secured Term Loans and Senior Reset Notes to affiliates was determined based on a discounted cash flow approach using quoted prices of instruments with similar terms and maturities and an estimate for our standalone credit risk. Accordingly, our Senior Secured Term Loans and Senior Reset Notes to affiliates were classified as Level 2 in the fair value hierarchy. Although we have determined the estimated fair values using available market information and commonly accepted valuation methodologies, considerable judgment was required in interpreting market data to develop fair value estimates for the Senior Secured Term Loans and Senior Reset Notes to affiliates. The fair value estimates were based on information available as of December 31, 2016 and 2015 . As such, our estimates are not necessarily indicative of the amount we could realize in a current market exchange. Deferred Purchase Price Assets In connection with the sales of certain service and EIP receivables pursuant to the sale arrangements, we have deferred purchase price assets measured at fair value that are based on a discounted cash flow model using unobservable Level 3 inputs, including customer default rates. See Note 3 – Sales of Certain Receivables . Guarantee Liabilities Our guarantee liabilities were valued based on various economic and customer behavioral assumptions, including expected trade-in period, volumes of trade-in, and the fair value of handsets traded in and therefore were classified as Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy. The total estimated remaining gross EIP receivable balances of all enrolled handset upgrade program customers, which are the remaining EIP amounts underlying the JUMP! guarantee, including EIP receivables that have been sold, was $2.1 billion as of December 31, 2016 . This is not an indication of our expected loss exposure as it does not consider the expected fair value of the used handset or the probability and timing of the trade-in.

Debt (Notes)

Debt (Notes)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Debt	Note 7 – Debt Debt was as follows: (in millions) December 31, December 31, 5.250% Senior Notes due 2018 $ 500 $ 500 6.288% Senior Reset Notes to affiliates due 2019 1,250 1,250 6.464% Senior Notes due 2019 1,250 1,250 6.366% Senior Reset Notes to affiliates due 2020 1,250 1,250 6.542% Senior Notes due 2020 1,250 1,250 6.625% Senior Notes due 2020 1,000 1,000 6.250% Senior Notes due 2021 1,750 1,750 6.633% Senior Notes due 2021 1,250 1,250 8.097% Senior Reset Notes to affiliates due 2021 1,250 1,250 6.125% Senior Notes due 2022 1,000 1,000 6.731% Senior Notes due 2022 1,250 1,250 8.195% Senior Reset Notes to affiliates due 2022 1,250 1,250 6.000% Senior Notes due 2023 1,300 1,300 6.625% Senior Notes due 2023 1,750 1,750 6.836% Senior Notes due 2023 600 600 9.332% Senior Reset Notes to affiliates due 2023 600 600 6.000% Senior Notes due 2024 1,000 — 6.500% Senior Notes due 2024 1,000 1,000 6.375% Senior Notes due 2025 1,700 1,700 6.500% Senior Notes due 2026 2,000 2,000 Senior Secured Term Loans 1,980 2,000 Capital leases 1,425 826 Unamortized premium from purchase price allocation fair value adjustment 212 250 Unamortized discount on Senior Secured Term Loans (8 ) (10 ) Debt issuance cost (23 ) (23 ) Total debt 27,786 26,243 Less: Current portion of Senior Secured Term Loans 20 20 Less: Current portion of capital leases 334 162 Total long-term debt $ 27,432 $ 26,061 Classified on the balance sheet as: Long-term debt $ 21,832 $ 20,461 Long-term debt to affiliates 5,600 5,600 Total long-term debt $ 27,432 $ 26,061 Long-term Debt In March 2016 , T-Mobile USA, Inc. (“T-Mobile USA”), a subsidiary of T-Mobile US, Inc., and certain of its affiliates, as guarantors, entered into a purchase agreement with Deutsche Telekom AG (“Deutsche Telekom”), our majority stockholder, under which T-Mobile USA may, at its option, issue and sell to Deutsche Telekom $2.0 billion of 5.300% Senior Notes due 2021 (the “ 5.300% Senior Notes”) for an aggregate purchase price of $2.0 billion . As amended in October 2016, if T-Mobile USA does not elect to issue the 5.300% Senior Notes on or prior to May 5, 2017, the commitment under the purchase agreement terminates and T-Mobile USA must reimburse Deutsche Telekom for the cost of its hedging arrangements (if any) related to the transaction. As of December 31, 2016 , if the commitment under this purchase agreement was terminated, the reimbursement amount due to Deutsche Telekom would not be significant. In addition, T-Mobile USA is required to reimburse Deutsche Telekom for its cost of hedging arrangements related to the extension for the duration of the extended commitments, which is not expected to be significant. In April 2016 , T-Mobile USA and certain of its affiliates, as guarantors, (i) issued $1.0 billion of public 6.000% Senior Notes due 2024, (ii) entered into a purchase agreement with Deutsche Telekom, under which T-Mobile USA may, at its option, issue and sell to Deutsche Telekom up to $1.35 billion of 6.000% Senior Notes due 2024 and (iii) entered into another purchase agreement with Deutsche Telekom, under which T-Mobile USA may, at its option, issue and sell up to an additional $650 million of 6.000% Senior Notes due 2024. The purchase price for the 6.000% Senior Notes that may be issued under the $1.35 billion purchase agreement will be approximately 103.316% of the outstanding principal balance of the notes issued. As amended in October 2016, if T-Mobile USA does not elect to issue the 6.000% Senior Notes under the $1.35 billion purchase agreement on or prior to May 5, 2017 or elects to issue less than $1.35 billion of 6.000% Senior Notes, any unused portion of the commitment under the purchase agreement terminates and T-Mobile USA must reimburse Deutsche Telekom for the cost of its hedging arrangements (if any) related to the transaction. As of December 31, 2016 , if the commitment under this purchase agreement was terminated, the reimbursement amount due to Deutsche Telekom would not be significant. In addition, T-Mobile USA is required to reimburse Deutsche Telekom for its cost of hedging arrangements related to the extension for the duration of the extended commitments, which is not expected to be significant. The purchase price for the 6.000% Senior Notes that may be issued under the $650 million purchase agreement will be approximately 104.047% of the outstanding principal balance of the notes issued. As amended in October 2016, if T-Mobile USA does not elect to issue the 6.000% Senior Notes under the $650 million purchase agreement on or prior to May 5, 2017 or elects to issue less than $650 million of 6.000% Senior Notes, any unused portion of the commitment under the purchase agreement terminates and T-Mobile USA must reimburse Deutsche Telekom for the cost of its hedging arrangements (if any) related to the transaction. As of December 31, 2016 , if the commitment under this purchase agreement was terminated, the reimbursement amount due to Deutsche Telekom would not be significant. In addition, T-Mobile USA is required to reimburse Deutsche Telekom for its cost of hedging arrangements related to the extension for the duration of the extended commitments, which is not expected to be significant. In January 2017, T-Mobile USA borrowed $4.0 billion under a secured term loan facility (“Incremental Term Loan Facility”) with Deutsche Telekom to refinance $1.98 billion of outstanding secured term loans under its Term Loan Credit Agreement dated November 9, 2015, with the remaining net proceeds from the transaction intended to be used to redeem callable high yield debt. The loans under the Incremental Term Loan Facility were drawn in two tranches on January 31, 2017 (i) $2.0 billion of which will bear interest at a rate equal to a per annum rate of LIBOR plus a margin of 2.00% and will mature on November 9, 2022 and (ii) $2.0 billion of which will bear interest at a rate equal to a per annum rate of LIBOR plus a margin of 2.25% and will mature on January 31, 2024. The Incremental Term Loan Facility increases Deutsche Telekom’s incremental term loan commitment provided to T-Mobile USA under that certain First Incremental Facility Amendment dated as of December 29, 2016 from $660 million to $2.0 billion and provides to T-Mobile USA an additional $2.0 billion incremental term loan commitment. See Note 14 – Subsequent Events for further information. In addition to the new debt issued, and purchase commitments with Deutsche Telekom, the supplemental indentures governing the Senior Reset Notes to affiliates provided for the adjustment of the interest rates on such Notes at various reset dates to rates determined in accordance with the applicable supplemental indenture. In April 2016 , the interest rate on the $600 million of Senior Reset Notes to affiliates due 2023 was adjusted from 5.950% to 9.332% . Capital Leases Capital lease agreements relate to network and IT equipment with varying expiration terms through 2030 . Future minimum payments required under capital leases, including interest, over their remaining terms are summarized below: (in millions) Future Minimum Payments Year Ending December 31, 2017 $ 390 2018 354 2019 315 2020 200 2021 150 Thereafter 214 Total $ 1,623 Interest included $ 198 Financing Arrangements We maintain a handset financing arrangement with Deutsche Bank AG (“Deutsche Bank”), which allows for up to $108 million in borrowings. Under the handset financing arrangement, we can effectively extend payment terms for invoices payable to certain handset vendors. The interest rate on the handset financing arrangement is determined based on LIBOR plus a specified margin per the arrangement. Obligations under the handset financing arrangement are included in Short-term debt in our Consolidated Balance Sheets . In 2016 and 2015 , we utilized and repaid $100 million under the financing arrangement. As of December 31, 2016 and 2015 , there was no outstanding balance. We maintain vendor financing arrangements with our primary network equipment suppliers. Under the respective agreements, we can obtain extended financing terms. The interest rate on the vendor financing arrangements is determined based on the difference between LIBOR and a specified margin per the agreements. Obligations under the vendor financing arrangements are included in Short-term debt in our Consolidated Balance Sheets . As of December 31, 2016 and 2015 , there was no outstanding balance. Revolving Credit Facility and Standby Letters of Credit We had an unsecured revolving credit facility with Deutsche Telekom which allowed for up to $500 million in borrowings. In December 2016, we terminated our $500 million unsecured revolving credit facility with Deutsche Telekom. As of December 31, 2016 , there were no outstanding borrowings outstanding under this facility. In December 2016, T-Mobile USA entered into a $2.5 billion revolving credit facility with Deutsche Telekom which comprised of (i) a three-year $1.0 billion unsecured revolving credit agreement and (ii) a three-year $1.5 billion secured revolving credit agreement. The applicable margin for the Unsecured Revolving Credit Facility ranges from 2.00% to 3.25% per annum for Eurodollar Rate loans. The applicable margin for the Secured Revolving Credit Facility ranges from 1.00% to 1.75% per annum for Eurodollar Rate loans. As of December 31, 2016 , there were no outstanding borrowings under the revolving credit facility. For the purposes of securing our obligations to provide handset insurance services, we maintain an agreement for standby letters of credit with JP Morgan Chase Bank, N.A. (“JP Morgan Chase”). For purposes of securing our general purpose obligations, we maintain a letter of credit reimbursement agreement with Deutsche Bank. The following table summarizes the outstanding standby letters of credit under each agreement: (in millions) December 31, December 31, JP Morgan Chase $ 20 $ 36 Deutsche Bank 54 54 Total outstanding balance $ 74 $ 90

Tower Obligations Tower Obligat

Tower Obligations Tower Obligations	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Leases [Abstract]
Tower Obligations	Note 8 – Tower Obligations In 2012, we conveyed to Crown Castle International Corp. (“CCI”) the exclusive right to manage and operate approximately 7,100 T-Mobile-owned wireless communication tower sites (“CCI Tower Sites”) in exchange for net proceeds of $2.5 billion (“2012 Tower Transaction”). Rights to approximately 6,200 of the tower sites were transferred to CCI via a Master Prepaid Lease with site lease terms ranging from 23 to 37 years (“CCI Lease Sites”), while the remaining tower sites were sold to CCI (“CCI Sales Sites”). CCI has fixed-price purchase options for these towers totaling approximately $2.0 billion , based on the estimated fair market value at the end of the lease term. We lease back space at certain tower sites for an initial term of ten years , followed by optional renewals at customary terms. In 2015, we conveyed to Phoenix Tower International (“PTI”) the exclusive right to manage and operate approximately 600 T-Mobile-owned wireless communication tower sites (“PTI Tower Sites”) in exchange for net proceeds of approximately $140 million (“2015 Tower Transaction”). As of December 31, 2016 , rights to approximately 200 of the tower sites remain operated by PTI under a management agreement (“PTI Managed Sites”). We lease back space at certain tower sites for an initial term of ten years , followed by optional renewals at customary terms. Assets and liabilities associated with the operation of certain of the tower sites were transferred to SPEs. Assets included ground lease agreements or deeds for the land on which the towers are situated, the towers themselves and existing subleasing agreements with other mobile network operator tenants, who lease space at the tower sites. Liabilities included the obligation to pay ground lease rentals, property taxes and other executory costs. Upon closing of the 2012 Tower Transaction, CCI acquired all of the equity interests in the SPEs containing CCI Sales Sites and an option to acquire the CCI Lease Sites at the end of their respective lease terms and entered into a master lease agreement under which we agreed to lease back space at certain of the tower sites. Upon closing of the 2015 Tower Transaction, PTI acquired all of the equity interests in the SPEs containing PTI Sales Sites and entered into a master lease agreement under which we agreed to lease back space at certain of the tower sites. We determined the SPEs containing the CCI Lease Sites (“Lease Site SPEs”) are VIEs as the Company's equity investment lacks the power to direct the activities that most significantly impact the economic performance of the VIEs. These activities include managing tenants and underlying ground leases, performing repair and maintenance on the towers, the obligation to absorb expected losses and the right to receive the expected future residual returns from the purchase option to acquire the CCI Lease Sites. As we determined that we are not the primary beneficiary and do not have a controlling financial interest in the Lease Site SPEs, the results of the Lease Site SPEs are not consolidated into our consolidated financial statements. Due to our continuing involvement with the tower sites, we determined that we were precluded from applying sale-leaseback accounting. We recorded long-term financial obligations in the amount of the net proceeds received and recognized interest on the tower obligations at a rate of approximately 8% for the 2012 Tower Transaction and 3% for the 2015 Tower Transaction using the effective interest method. The tower obligations are increased by interest expense and amortized through contractual leaseback payments made by us to CCI or PTI and through estimated future net cash flows generated and retained by CCI or PTI from operation of the tower sites. Our historical tower site asset costs continue to be reported in Property and equipment, net in our Consolidated Balance Sheets and are depreciated. The following table summarizes the impacts to the Consolidated Balance Sheets : (in millions) December 31, December 31, Property and equipment, net $ 485 $ 601 Tower obligations 2,621 2,658 Future minimum payments related to the tower obligations are summarized below: (in millions) Future Minimum Payments Year Ending December 31, 2017 $ 184 2018 184 2019 184 2020 185 2021 185 Thereafter 1,164 Total $ 2,086 We are contingently liable for future ground lease payments through the remaining term of the CCI Lease Sites. These contingent obligations are not included in the above table as any amount due is contractually owed by CCI based on the subleasing arrangement. See Note 12 – Commitments and Contingencies for further information.

Employee Compensation and Benef

Employee Compensation and Benefit Plans Employee Compensation and Benefit Plans	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Compensation Related Costs [Abstract]
Compensation and Employee Benefit Plans [Text Block]	Note 9 – Employee Compensation and Benefit Plans Under our 2013 Omnibus Incentive Plan (the “Incentive Plan”), we are authorized to issue up to 63 million shares of our common stock. Under the Incentive Plan, we can grant stock options, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock, restricted stock units (“RSUs”), and performance awards to eligible employees, consultants, advisors and non-employee directors. As of December 31, 2016 , there were 22 million shares of common stock available for future grants under the Incentive Plan. We grant RSUs to eligible employees and certain non-employee directors and performance-based restricted stock units (“PRSUs”) to eligible key executives. RSUs entitle the grantee to receive shares of our common stock at the end of a vesting period of generally up to 3 years , subject to continued service through the applicable vesting date. PRSUs entitle the holder to receive shares of our common stock at the end of a vesting period of generally up to 3 years if the applicable performance goals are achieved and generally subject to continued employment through the vesting period. The number of shares ultimately received by the holder of PRSUs is dependent on our business performance against the specified performance goal(s) over a pre-established performance period. We also maintain an employee stock purchase plan (“ESPP”), under which eligible employees can purchase our common stock at a discounted price. Stock-based compensation expense and related income tax benefits were as follows: (in millions, except shares, per share and contractual life amounts) December 31, December 31, December 31, Stock-based compensation expense $ 235 $ 201 $ 196 Income tax benefit related to stock-based compensation 80 71 73 Realized excess tax benefit — 79 34 Weighted average fair value per stock award granted 45.07 35.56 28.52 Unrecognized compensation expense 389 327 271 Weighted average period to be recognized (years) 2.0 2.0 1.9 Fair value of stock awards vested 354 445 209 Stock Awards RSU and PRSU Awards The following activity occurred under the RSU and PRSU awards: (in millions, except shares, per share and contractual life amounts) Number of Units Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term (Years) Aggregate Intrinsic Value Nonvested, December 31, 2015 16,334,271 $ 29.95 1.2 $ 639 Granted 8,431,980 45.07 Vested (7,712,463 ) 28.33 Forfeited (1,338,397 ) 34.42 Nonvested, December 31, 2016 15,715,391 $ 37.93 1.1 $ 904 Payment of the underlying shares in connection with the vesting of stock awards generally triggers a tax obligation for the employee, which is required to be remitted to the relevant tax authorities. We have agreed to withhold stock otherwise issuable under the award to cover certain of these tax obligations, with the net shares issued to the employee accounted for as outstanding common stock. We withheld 2,605,807 and 4,176,464 shares of stock to cover tax obligations associated with the payment of shares upon vesting of stock awards and remitted cash of $121 million and $156 million to the appropriate tax authorities for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 , respectively. Employee Stock Purchase Plan Our ESPP allows eligible employees to contribute up to 15% of their eligible earnings toward the semi-annual purchase of our common stock at a discounted price, subject to an annual maximum dollar amount. Employees can purchase stock at a 15% discount applied to the closing stock price on the first or last day of the six month offering period, whichever price is lower. The number of shares issued under our ESPP was 1,905,534 and 761,085 for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 , respectively. Stock Options Prior to the business combination, MetroPCS had established the MetroPCS Communications, Inc. 2010 Equity Incentive Compensation Plan, the Amended and Restated MetroPCS Communications, Inc. 2004 Equity Incentive Compensation Plan and the Second Amended and Restated 1995 Stock Option Plan (“Predecessor Plans”). Following stockholder approval of the Incentive Plan, no new awards have been or may be granted under the Predecessor Plans. The following activity occurred under the Predecessor Plans: Shares Weighted Average Exercise Price Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term (Years) Outstanding and exercisable, December 31, 2015 1,824,354 $ 30.50 2.7 Exercised (982,904 ) 29.34 Expired (7,519 ) 44.21 Outstanding and exercisable, December 31, 2016 833,931 $ 31.75 2.3 Stock options exercised under the Predecessor Plans generated proceeds of approximately $29 million and $47 million for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 , respectively. Employee Retirement Savings Plan We sponsor a retirement savings plan for the majority of our employees under section 401(k) of the Internal Revenue Code and similar plans. The plans allow employees to contribute a portion of their pretax income in accordance with specified guidelines. The plans provide that we match a percentage of employee contributions up to certain limits. Employer matching contributions were $83 million , $73 million and $66 million for the years ended December 31, 2016 , 2015 and 2014 , respectively. Legacy Long Term Incentive Plan Prior to the business combination with MetroPCS Communications, Inc., we maintained a performance-based Long Term Incentive Plan (“LTIP”) which aligned to our long-term business strategy. As of December 31, 2016 , there were no LTIP awards outstanding and no new awards are expected to be granted under the LTIP. Compensation expense reported within operating expenses related to our LTIP and payments to participants related to our LTIP were as follows: (in millions) December 31, December 31, December 31, Compensation expense $ — $ 27 $ 44 Payments 52 57 60

Income Taxes Income Taxes

Income Taxes Income Taxes	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income Taxes	Note 10 – Income Taxes Our sources of Income before income taxes were as follows: Year Ended December 31, (in millions) 2016 2015 2014 U.S. $ 2,286 $ 898 $ 347 Puerto Rico 41 80 66 Income before income taxes $ 2,327 $ 978 $ 413 Income tax expense is summarized as follows: Year Ended December 31, (in millions) 2016 2015 2014 Current tax expense (benefit) Federal $ (66 ) $ (30 ) $ — State 29 2 6 Puerto Rico (10 ) 17 38 Total current tax expense (benefit) (47 ) (11 ) 44 Deferred tax expense (benefit) Federal 804 281 79 State 96 (37 ) 40 Puerto Rico 14 12 3 Total deferred tax expense 914 256 122 Total income tax expense $ 867 $ 245 $ 166 The reconciliation between the U.S. federal statutory income tax rate and our effective income tax rate is as follows: Year Ended December 31, 2016 2015 2014 Federal statutory income tax rate 35.0 % 35.0 % 35.0 % State taxes, net of federal benefit 4.0 (1.1 ) (8.8 ) Puerto Rico taxes, net of federal benefit — 3.3 5.0 Change in valuation allowance 1.0 (3.2 ) 18.8 Permanent differences 0.6 1.6 1.4 Federal tax credits, net of reserves (0.5 ) (9.5 ) (10.6 ) Equity-based compensation (2.2 ) — — Other, net (0.6 ) (1.0 ) (0.6 ) Effective income tax rate 37.3 % 25.1 % 40.2 % Significant components of deferred income tax assets and liabilities, tax effected, are as follows: (in millions) December 31, December 31, Deferred tax assets Loss carryforwards $ 1,442 $ 1,997 Deferred rents 1,153 1,136 Reserves and accruals 1,058 928 Federal and state tax credits 284 349 Debt fair market value adjustment 83 97 Other 430 317 Deferred tax assets, gross 4,450 4,824 Valuation allowance (573 ) (583 ) Deferred tax assets, net 3,877 4,241 Deferred tax liabilities Spectrum licenses 6,952 6,174 Property and equipment 1,732 1,950 Other intangible assets 119 178 Other 12 — Total deferred tax liabilities 8,815 8,302 Net deferred tax liabilities $ 4,938 $ 4,061 Classified on the balance sheet as: Deferred tax liabilities $ 4,938 $ 4,061 As of December 31, 2016 , we have net operating loss (“NOL”) carryforwards, tax effected, of $1.1 billion for federal income tax purposes and $689 million for state income tax purposes, expiring through 2036. As of December 31, 2016 , our federal and state NOL carryforwards for financial reporting purposes were approximately $204 million and $167 million , respectively, tax effected, less than our NOL carryforwards for federal and state income tax purposes, due to unrecognized tax benefits of the same amount. As of December 31, 2016 , we have available Alternative Minimum Tax credit carryforwards of $89 million , which may be used to reduce regular federal income taxes and have no expiration. We also have research and development and foreign tax credit carryforwards of $174 million for federal income tax purposes, which begin to expire in 2018. As of December 31, 2016 and 2015 , our valuation allowance was $573 million and $583 million , respectively. The change in the valuation allowance of $10 million is primarily related to the adoption of ASU 2016-09 and the related release of a $33 million valuation allowance on stock option deductions included in NOL carryforwards, partially offset by 2016 activity related to state deferred tax assets for which a valuation allowance exists. Based on recent earnings in certain jurisdictions, sufficient positive evidence may exist within the next twelve months such that we may release a portion of our valuation allowance. We file income tax returns in the U.S. federal jurisdiction, various state jurisdictions and in Puerto Rico. We are currently under examination by various states. Management does not believe the resolution of any of the audits will result in a material change to our financial condition, results of operations or cash flows. The IRS has concluded its audits of our federal tax returns through the 2013 tax year, however, NOL carryforwards for certain audited periods remain open for examination. We are generally closed to U.S. federal, state and Puerto Rico examination for years prior to 1998. A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of unrecognized tax benefits were as follows: Year Ended December 31, (in millions) 2016 2015 2014 Unrecognized tax benefits, beginning of year $ 411 $ 388 $ 178 Gross decreases to tax positions in prior periods (5 ) (112 ) (52 ) Gross increases to current period tax positions 4 135 262 Unrecognized tax benefits, end of year $ 410 $ 411 $ 388 As of December 31, 2016 and 2015 , we had $168 million and $163 million , respectively, in unrecognized tax benefits that, if recognized, would affect our annual effective tax rate. Penalties and interest on income tax assessments are included in Selling, general and administrative expenses and Interest expense , respectively, in our Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income . The accrued interest and penalties associated with unrecognized tax benefits are insignificant.

Earnings Per Share

Earnings Per Share	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Earnings Per Share	Note 11 – Earnings Per Share The computation of basic and diluted earnings per share was as follows: Year Ended December 31, (in millions, except shares and per share amounts) 2016 2015 2014 Net income $ 1,460 $ 733 $ 247 Less: Dividends on mandatory convertible preferred stock (55 ) (55 ) — Net income attributable to common stockholders - basic and diluted $ 1,405 $ 678 $ 247 Weighted average shares outstanding - basic 822,470,275 812,994,028 805,284,712 Effect of dilutive securities: Outstanding stock options and unvested stock awards 10,584,270 9,623,910 8,893,887 Mandatory convertible preferred stock — — 1,743,659 Weighted average shares outstanding - diluted 833,054,545 822,617,938 815,922,258 Earnings per share - basic $ 1.71 $ 0.83 $ 0.31 Earnings per share - diluted $ 1.69 $ 0.82 $ 0.30 Potentially dilutive securities: Outstanding stock options and unvested stock awards 3,528,683 4,842,370 1,426,331 Mandatory convertible preferred stock 32,237,266 32,237,266 — Potentially dilutive securities were not included in the computation of diluted earnings per share if to do so would have been anti-dilutive.

Commitments and Contingencies

Commitments and Contingencies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Commitments and Contingencies	Note 12 – Commitments and Contingencies Commitments Operating Leases and Purchase Commitments Future minimum payments for non-cancelable operating leases and purchase commitments are summarized below: (in millions) Operating Leases Purchase Commitments Year Ending December 31, 2017 $ 2,417 $ 2,011 2018 2,118 977 2019 1,832 841 2020 1,511 704 2021 1,102 626 Thereafter 2,188 960 Total $ 11,168 $ 6,119 Operating Leases We have operating leases for cell sites, switch sites, retail stores and office facilities with contractual terms expiring through 2026 . The majority of cell site leases have an initial non-cancelable term of five years to ten years with several renewal options. Historically, our assessment of cell site lease terms included renewal options on certain cell site leases which were reasonably assured of exercise and we had included such renewal options in the future minimum lease payments presented in the Operating Lease and Purchase Commitments table, above. As of December 31, 2016, we have updated the future minimum lease payments for all cell site leases presented above to include only payments due for the initial non-cancelable lease term as they represent the payments which we cannot avoid at our option and also correspond to our lease term assessment for new leases. This update had the effect of reducing our contractual operating lease commitments included in the table above by $4.6 billion as of December 31, 2016 . In addition, we have operating leases for dedicated transportation lines with varying expiration terms through 2026 . As of December 31, 2016 , we were contingently liable for future ground lease payments related to the tower obligations. These contingent obligations are not included in the above table as the amounts due are contractually owed by CCI based on the subleasing arrangement. See Note 8 – Tower Obligations for further information. Total rent expense under operating leases, including dedicated transportation lines, was $2.8 billion , $2.8 billion and $3.0 billion for the years ended December 31, 2016 , 2015 and 2014 , respectively, and is classified as Cost of services and Selling, general and administrative in our Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income . Purchase Commitments We have commitments for non-dedicated transportation lines with varying expiration terms through 2028 . In addition, we have commitments to purchase spectrum licenses, handsets, network services, equipment, software, marketing sponsorship agreements and other items in the ordinary course of business, with various terms through 2028 . These amounts are not reflective of our entire anticipated purchases under the related agreements, but are determined based on the non-cancelable quantities or termination amounts to which we are contractually obligated. Related-Party Commitments In 2016 , T-Mobile USA entered into three purchase agreements with Deutsche Telekom under which T-Mobile USA may, at its option, issue and sell to Deutsche Telekom certain Senior Notes. The purchase agreements were amended in October 2016. See Note 7 – Debt for further information. In January 2017, T-Mobile USA borrowed $4.0 billion under a secured term loan facility (“Incremental Term Loan Facility”) with Deutsche Telekom to refinance $1.98 billion of outstanding secured term loans under its Term Loan Credit Agreement dated November 9, 2015, with the remaining net proceeds from the transaction intended to be used to redeem callable high yield debt. The loans under the Incremental Term Loan Facility were drawn in two tranches on January 31, 2017 (i) $2.0 billion of which will bear interest at a rate equal to a per annum rate of LIBOR plus a margin of 2.00% and will mature on November 9, 2022 and (ii) $2.0 billion of which will bear interest at a rate equal to a per annum rate of LIBOR plus a margin of 2.25% and will mature on January 31, 2024. The Incremental Term Loan Facility increases Deutsche Telekom’s incremental term loan commitment provided to T-Mobile USA under that certain First Incremental Facility Amendment dated as of December 29, 2016 from $660 million to $2.0 billion and provides to T-Mobile USA an additional $2.0 billion incremental term loan commitment. See Note 14 – Subsequent Events for further information. In December 2016, T-Mobile USA also entered into a $2.5 billion revolving credit facility with Deutsche Telekom which comprised of (i) a three-year $1.0 billion senior unsecured revolving credit agreement and (ii) a three-year $1.5 billion senior secured revolving credit agreement. As of December 31, 2016, there were no outstanding borrowings under the revolving credit facility. See Note 7 – Debt for further information. Contingencies and Litigation We are involved in various lawsuits, claims, government agency investigations and enforcement actions, and other proceedings (“Litigation Matters”) that arise in the ordinary course of business, which include numerous court actions alleging that we are infringing various patents. Virtually all of the patent infringement cases are brought by non-practicing entities and effectively seek only monetary damages, although they occasionally seek injunctive relief as well. The Litigation Matters described above have progressed to various stages and some of them may proceed to trial, arbitration, hearing or other adjudication that could include an award of monetary or injunctive relief in the coming 12 months, if they are not otherwise resolved. We have established an accrual with respect to certain of these matters, where appropriate, which is reflected in the consolidated financial statements but that we do not consider, individually or in the aggregate, material. An accrual is established when we believe it is both probable that a loss has been incurred and an amount can be reasonably estimated. For other matters, where we have not determined that a loss is probable or because the amount of loss cannot be reasonably estimated, we have not recorded an accrual due to various factors typical in contested proceedings, including but not limited to: uncertainty concerning legal theories and their resolution by courts or regulators; uncertain damage theories and demands; and a less than fully developed factual record. While we do not expect that the ultimate resolution of these proceedings, individually or in the aggregate will have a material adverse effect on our financial position, an unfavorable outcome of some or all of these proceedings could have a material adverse impact on results of operations or cash flows for a particular period. This assessment is based on our current understanding of relevant facts and circumstances. As such, our view of these matters is subject to inherent uncertainties and may change in the future.

Additional Financial Informatio

Additional Financial Information Additional Financial Information	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Supplemental Financial Statement Elements [Abstract]
Additional Financial Information	Note 13 – Additional Financial Information Supplemental Consolidated Balance Sheets Information Allowances and Imputed Discount The following table summarizes the changes in allowances and unamortized imputed discount related to our current accounts receivables and EIP receivables: (in millions) 2016 2015 2014 Allowances, beginning of year $ 264 $ 199 $ 169 Bad debt expense 477 547 444 Write-offs, net of recoveries (518 ) (482 ) (414 ) Allowances, end of year $ 223 $ 264 $ 199 Imputed discount, beginning of year $ 159 $ 271 $ 212 Additions 362 310 380 Interest income (248 ) (414 ) (355 ) Cancellations and other (47 ) (78 ) (92 ) Impacts from sales of EIP receivables (152 ) (55 ) — Transfer from long-term 100 125 126 Imputed discount, end of year $ 174 $ 159 $ 271 The following table summarizes the changes in unamortized imputed discount related to our long-term EIP receivables: (in millions) 2016 2015 2014 Imputed discount, beginning of year $ 26 $ 61 $ 64 Additions 134 111 141 Cancellations and other (15 ) (13 ) (18 ) Impacts from sales of EIP receivables (24 ) (8 ) — Transfer to current (100 ) (125 ) (126 ) Imputed discount, end of year $ 21 $ 26 $ 61 See Note 3 – Sales of Certain Receivables on sales of EIP receivables and Note 2 – Equipment Installment Plan Receivables on EIP receivables and related unamortized imputed discount and allowance for credit losses for further information. Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities Accounts payable and accrued liabilities are summarized as follows: (in millions) December 31, December 31, Accounts payable $ 5,163 $ 6,137 Payroll and related benefits 559 521 Property and other taxes, including payroll 525 494 Interest 423 371 Commissions 159 190 Network decommissioning 101 117 Toll and interconnect 85 68 Advertising 44 77 Other 93 109 Accounts payable and accrued liabilities $ 7,152 $ 8,084 Book overdrafts included in accounts payable and accrued liabilities were $356 million and $501 million as of December 31, 2016 and 2015 , respectively. Other In June 2016, we made a refundable deposit of $2.2 billion to a third party in connection with a potential asset purchase. The deposit is included in Asset purchase deposit in our Consolidated Balance Sheets . During the quarter ended and subsequent to September 30, 2016, a handset Original Equipment Manufacturer (“OEM”) announced recalls on certain of its smartphone devices. As a result, we recorded no revenue associated with the device sales to customers and impaired the devices to their net realizable value. The OEM has agreed to reimburse T-Mobile, as such, we have recorded an amount due from the OEM as an offset to the loss recorded in Cost of equipment sales in our Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income and a reduction to Accounts payable and accrued liabilities in our Consolidated Balance Sheets . Supplemental Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income Information Related Party Transactions We have related party transactions associated with Deutsche Telekom or its affiliates in the ordinary course of business, which are included in the consolidated financial statements. The following table summarizes the impact of significant transactions with Deutsche Telekom or its affiliates included in operating expenses in the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income : Year Ended December 31, (in millions) 2016 2015 2014 Discount related to roaming expenses $ (15 ) $ (21 ) $ (61 ) Fees incurred for use of the T-Mobile brand 74 65 60 Expenses for telecommunications and IT services 25 23 24 International long distance agreement 60 — — We have an agreement with Deutsche Telekom for the reimbursement of certain administrative expenses, which were $11 million and $2 million for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 , respectively. There were no reimbursements for the year ended December 31, 2014 . Supplemental Consolidated Statement of Stockholders’ Equity Information Preferred Stock In 2014 , we completed a public offering of 20 million shares of mandatory convertible preferred stock for net proceeds of $982 million . Dividends on the preferred stock are payable on a cumulative basis when and if declared by our board of directors at an annual rate of 5.5% . The dividends may be paid in cash, shares of common stock, subject to certain limitations, or any combination of cash and shares of common stock. Unless converted earlier, each share of preferred stock will convert automatically on December 15, 2017 into between 1.6119 and 1.9342 shares of common stock, subject to customary anti-dilution adjustments, depending on the applicable market value of the common stock. At any time, the preferred shares may be converted, in whole or in part, at the minimum conversion rate of 1.6119 shares of common stock, except during a fundamental change conversion period. In addition, holders may be entitled to shares based on the amount of accumulated and unpaid dividends. If certain fundamental changes involving the Company occur, the preferred stock may be converted into common shares at the applicable conversion rate, subject to certain anti-dilution adjustments, and holders will also be entitled to a make-whole amount. The preferred stock ranks senior with respect to liquidation preference and dividend rights to common stock. In the event of any voluntary or involuntary liquidation, winding-up or dissolution of the Company, each holder of preferred stock will be entitled to receive a liquidation preference in the amount of $50 per share, plus an amount equal to accumulated and unpaid dividends, after satisfaction of liabilities to our creditors and before any distribution or payment is made to any holders of common stock. The preferred stock is not redeemable.

Subsequent Events Subsequent Ev

Subsequent Events Subsequent Events	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Subsequent Events [Abstract]
Subsequent Events	Note 14 – Subsequent Events In January 2017, we delivered a notice of redemption on $1.0 billion aggregate principal amount of our 6.625% Senior Notes due 2020 . The notes were redeemed on February 10, 2017 at a redemption price equal to 102.208% of the principal amount of the notes (plus accrued and unpaid interest thereon). In January 2017, T-Mobile USA borrowed $4.0 billion under a secured term loan facility (“Incremental Term Loan Facility”) with Deutsche Telekom to refinance $1.98 billion of outstanding secured term loans under its Term Loan Credit Agreement dated November 9, 2015, with the remaining net proceeds from the transaction intended to be used to redeem callable high yield debt. The loans under the Incremental Term Loan Facility were drawn in two tranches on January 31, 2017 (i) $2.0 billion of which will bear interest at a rate equal to a per annum rate of LIBOR plus a margin of 2.00% and will mature on November 9, 2022 and (ii) $2.0 billion of which will bear interest at a rate equal to a per annum rate of LIBOR plus a margin of 2.25% and will mature on January 31, 2024. The Incremental Term Loan Facility increases Deutsche Telekom’s incremental term loan commitment provided to T-Mobile USA under that certain First Incremental Facility Amendment dated as of December 29, 2016 from $660 million to $2.0 billion and provides to T-Mobile USA an additional $2.0 billion incremental term loan commitment. In February 2017, we delivered a notice of redemption on $500 million aggregate principal amount of our 5.250% Senior Notes due 2018 . The notes will be redeemed on March 6, 2017 at a redemption price equal to 101.313% of the principal amount of the notes (plus accrued and unpaid interest thereon).

Guarantor Financial Information

Guarantor Financial Information	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Condensed Financial Information of Parent Company Only Disclosure [Abstract]
Guarantor Financial Information	Note 15 – Guarantor Financial Information Pursuant to the applicable indentures and supplemental indentures, the long-term debt to affiliates and third parties, excluding Senior Secured Term Loans and capital leases, issued by T-Mobile USA (“Issuer”) is fully and unconditionally guaranteed, jointly and severally, on a senior unsecured basis by T-Mobile (“Parent”) and certain of the Issuer’s 100% owned subsidiaries (“Guarantor Subsidiaries”). In April 2016 , T-Mobile USA and certain of its affiliates, as guarantors, issued $1.0 billion of public 6.000% Senior Notes due 2024. The guarantees of the Guarantor Subsidiaries are subject to release in limited circumstances only upon the occurrence of certain customary conditions. The indentures governing the long-term debt contain covenants that, among other things, limit the ability of the Issuer and the Guarantor Subsidiaries to: incur more debt; pay dividends and make distributions; make certain investments; repurchase stock; create liens or other encumbrances; enter into transactions with affiliates; enter into transactions that restrict dividends or distributions from subsidiaries; and merge, consolidate, or sell, or otherwise dispose of, substantially all of their assets. Certain provisions of each of the indentures and the supplemental indentures relating to the long-term debt restrict the ability of the Issuer to loan funds or make payments to Parent. However, the Issuer and Guarantor Subsidiaries are allowed to make certain permitted payments to the Parent under the terms of the indentures and the supplemental indentures. Presented below is the condensed consolidating financial information as of December 31, 2016 and 2015 and for the years ended December 31, 2016 , 2015 and 2014 . Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet Information December 31, 2016 (in millions) Parent Issuer Guarantor Subsidiaries Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries Consolidating and Eliminating Adjustments Consolidated Assets Current assets Cash and cash equivalents $ 358 $ 2,733 $ 2,342 $ 67 $ — $ 5,500 Accounts receivable, net — — 1,675 221 — 1,896 Equipment installment plan receivables, net — — 1,930 — — 1,930 Accounts receivable from affiliates — — 40 — — 40 Inventories — — 1,111 — — 1,111 Asset purchase deposit — — 2,203 — — 2,203 Other current assets — — 972 565 — 1,537 Total current assets 358 2,733 10,273 853 — 14,217 Property and equipment, net (1) — — 20,568 375 — 20,943 Goodwill — — 1,683 — — 1,683 Spectrum licenses — — 27,014 — — 27,014 Other intangible assets, net — — 376 — — 376 Investments in subsidiaries, net 17,682 35,095 — — (52,777 ) — Intercompany receivables 196 6,826 — — (7,022 ) — Equipment installment plan receivables due after one year, net — — 984 — — 984 Other assets — 7 600 262 (195 ) 674 Total assets $ 18,236 $ 44,661 $ 61,498 $ 1,490 $ (59,994 ) $ 65,891 Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity Current liabilities Accounts payable and accrued liabilities $ — $ 423 $ 6,474 $ 255 $ — $ 7,152 Payables to affiliates — 79 46 — — 125 Short-term debt — 20 334 — — 354 Deferred revenue — — 986 — — 986 Other current liabilities — — 258 147 — 405 Total current liabilities — 522 8,098 402 — 9,022 Long-term debt — 20,741 1,091 — — 21,832 Long-term debt to affiliates — 5,600 — — — 5,600 Tower obligations (1) — — 400 2,221 — 2,621 Deferred tax liabilities — — 5,133 — (195 ) 4,938 Deferred rent expense — — 2,616 — — 2,616 Negative carrying value of subsidiaries, net — — 568 — (568 ) — Intercompany payables — — 6,785 237 (7,022 ) — Other long-term liabilities — 116 906 4 — 1,026 Total long-term liabilities — 26,457 17,499 2,462 (7,785 ) 38,633 Total stockholders' equity (deficit) 18,236 17,682 35,901 (1,374 ) (52,209 ) 18,236 Total liabilities and stockholders' equity $ 18,236 $ 44,661 $ 61,498 $ 1,490 $ (59,994 ) $ 65,891 (1) Assets and liabilities for Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries are primarily included in VIEs related to the 2012 Tower Transaction. See Note 8 – Tower Obligations for further information. Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet Information December 31, 2015 (in millions) Parent Issuer Guarantor Subsidiaries Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries Consolidating and Eliminating Adjustments Consolidated Assets Current assets Cash and cash equivalents $ 378 $ 1,767 $ 2,364 $ 73 $ — $ 4,582 Short-term investments — 1,999 999 — — 2,998 Accounts receivable, net — — 1,574 214 — 1,788 Equipment installment plan receivables, net — — 2,378 — — 2,378 Accounts receivable from affiliates — — 36 — — 36 Inventories — — 1,295 — — 1,295 Other current assets — — 1,413 400 — 1,813 Total current assets 378 3,766 10,059 687 — 14,890 Property and equipment, net (1) — — 19,546 454 — 20,000 Goodwill — — 1,683 — — 1,683 Spectrum licenses — — 23,955 — — 23,955 Other intangible assets, net — — 594 — — 594 Investments in subsidiaries, net 16,184 32,280 — — (48,464 ) — Intercompany receivables — 6,130 — — (6,130 ) — Equipment installment plan receivables due after one year, net — — 847 — — 847 Other assets — 5 387 219 (167 ) 444 Total assets $ 16,562 $ 42,181 $ 57,071 $ 1,360 $ (54,761 ) $ 62,413 Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity Current liabilities Accounts payable and accrued liabilities $ — $ 368 $ 7,496 $ 220 $ — $ 8,084 Payables to affiliates — 70 65 — — 135 Short-term debt — 20 162 — — 182 Deferred revenue — — 717 — — 717 Other current liabilities — — 327 83 — 410 Total current liabilities — 458 8,767 303 — 9,528 Long-term debt — 19,797 664 — — 20,461 Long-term debt to affiliates — 5,600 — — — 5,600 Tower obligations (1) — — 411 2,247 — 2,658 Deferred tax liabilities — — 4,228 — (167 ) 4,061 Deferred rent expense — — 2,481 — — 2,481 Negative carrying value of subsidiaries, net — — 628 — (628 ) — Intercompany payables 5 — 5,959 166 (6,130 ) — Other long-term liabilities — 142 922 3 — 1,067 Total long-term liabilities 5 25,539 15,293 2,416 (6,925 ) 36,328 Total stockholders' equity (deficit) 16,557 16,184 33,011 (1,359 ) (47,836 ) 16,557 Total liabilities and stockholders' equity $ 16,562 $ 42,181 $ 57,071 $ 1,360 $ (54,761 ) $ 62,413 (1) Assets and liabilities for Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries are primarily included in VIEs related to the 2012 Tower Transaction. See Note 8 – Tower Obligations for further information. Condensed Consolidating Statement of Comprehensive Income Information Year Ended December 31, 2016 (in millions) Parent Issuer Guarantor Subsidiaries Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries Consolidating and Eliminating Adjustments Consolidated Revenues Service revenues $ — $ — $ 26,613 $ 2,023 $ (792 ) $ 27,844 Equipment revenues — — 9,145 — (418 ) 8,727 Other revenues — 3 491 195 (18 ) 671 Total revenues — 3 36,249 2,218 (1,228 ) 37,242 Operating expenses Cost of services, exclusive of depreciation and amortization shown separately below — — 5,707 24 — 5,731 Cost of equipment sales — — 10,209 1,027 (417 ) 10,819 Selling, general and administrative — — 11,321 868 (811 ) 11,378 Depreciation and amortization — — 6,165 78 — 6,243 Cost of MetroPCS business combination — — 104 — — 104 Gains on disposal of spectrum licenses — — (835 ) — — (835 ) Total operating expenses — — 32,671 1,997 (1,228 ) 33,440 Operating income — 3 3,578 221 — 3,802 Other income (expense) Interest expense — (1,147 ) (82 ) (189 ) — (1,418 ) Interest expense to affiliates — (312 ) — — — (312 ) Interest income — 31 230 — — 261 Other income (expense), net — 2 (8 ) — — (6 ) Total other income (expense), net — (1,426 ) 140 (189 ) — (1,475 ) Income (loss) before income taxes — (1,423 ) 3,718 32 — 2,327 Income tax expense — — (857 ) (10 ) — (867 ) Earnings (loss) of subsidiaries 1,460 2,883 (17 ) — (4,326 ) — Net income 1,460 1,460 2,844 22 (4,326 ) 1,460 Dividends on preferred stock (55 ) — — — — (55 ) Net income attributable to common stockholders $ 1,405 $ 1,460 $ 2,844 $ 22 $ (4,326 ) $ 1,405 Net Income $ 1,460 $ 1,460 $ 2,844 $ 22 $ (4,326 ) $ 1,460 Other comprehensive income, net of tax Other comprehensive income, net of tax 2 2 2 2 (6 ) 2 Total comprehensive income $ 1,462 $ 1,462 $ 2,846 $ 24 $ (4,332 ) $ 1,462 Condensed Consolidating Statement of Comprehensive Income Information Year Ended December 31, 2015 (in millions) Parent Issuer Guarantor Subsidiaries Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries Consolidating and Eliminating Adjustments Consolidated Revenues Service revenues $ — $ — $ 23,748 $ 1,669 $ (596 ) $ 24,821 Equipment revenues — — 7,148 — (430 ) 6,718 Other revenues — 1 356 171 (14 ) 514 Total revenues — 1 31,252 1,840 (1,040 ) 32,053 Operating expenses Cost of services, exclusive of depreciation and amortization shown separately below — — 5,530 24 — 5,554 Cost of equipment sales — — 9,055 720 (431 ) 9,344 Selling, general and administrative — — 10,065 733 (609 ) 10,189 Depreciation and amortization — — 4,605 83 — 4,688 Cost of MetroPCS business combination — — 376 — — 376 Gains on disposal of spectrum licenses — — (163 ) — — (163 ) Total operating expenses — — 29,468 1,560 (1,040 ) 29,988 Operating income — 1 1,784 280 — 2,065 Other income (expense) Interest expense — (847 ) (50 ) (188 ) — (1,085 ) Interest expense to affiliates — (411 ) — — — (411 ) Interest income — 2 418 — — 420 Other expense, net — (10 ) — (1 ) — (11 ) Total other income (expense), net — (1,266 ) 368 (189 ) — (1,087 ) Income (loss) before income taxes — (1,265 ) 2,152 91 — 978 Income tax expense — — (214 ) (31 ) — (245 ) Earnings (loss) of subsidiaries 733 1,998 (48 ) — (2,683 ) — Net income 733 733 1,890 60 (2,683 ) 733 Dividends on preferred stock (55 ) — — — — (55 ) Net income attributable to common stockholders $ 678 $ 733 $ 1,890 $ 60 $ (2,683 ) $ 678 Net income $ 733 $ 733 $ 1,890 $ 60 $ (2,683 ) $ 733 Other comprehensive loss, net of tax Other comprehensive loss, net of tax (2 ) (2 ) (2 ) — 4 (2 ) Total comprehensive income $ 731 $ 731 $ 1,888 $ 60 $ (2,679 ) $ 731 Condensed Consolidating Statement of Comprehensive Income Information Year Ended December 31, 2014 (in millions) Parent Issuer Guarantor Subsidiaries Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries Consolidating and Eliminating Adjustments Consolidated Revenues Service revenues $ — $ — $ 21,483 $ 1,302 $ (410 ) $ 22,375 Equipment revenues — — 7,319 — (530 ) 6,789 Other revenues — — 270 140 (10 ) 400 Total revenues — — 29,072 1,442 (950 ) 29,564 Operating expenses Cost of services, exclusive of depreciation and amortization shown separately below — — 5,767 21 — 5,788 Cost of equipment sales — — 9,491 702 (572 ) 9,621 Selling, general and administrative — — 8,723 518 (378 ) 8,863 Depreciation and amortization — — 4,330 82 — 4,412 Cost of MetroPCS business combination — — 299 — — 299 Gains on disposal of spectrum licenses — — (840 ) — — (840 ) Other, net — — 5 — — 5 Total operating expenses — — 27,775 1,323 (950 ) 28,148 Operating income — — 1,297 119 — 1,416 Other income (expense) Interest expense — (838 ) (55 ) (180 ) — (1,073 ) Interest expense to affiliates — (278 ) — — — (278 ) Interest income — — 359 — — 359 Other income (expense), net — (15 ) 4 — — (11 ) Total other income (expense), net — (1,131 ) 308 (180 ) — (1,003 ) Income (loss) before income taxes — (1,131 ) 1,605 (61 ) — 413 Income tax (expense) benefit — — (189 ) 23 — (166 ) Earnings (loss) of subsidiaries 247 1,278 (54 ) — (1,471 ) — Net income (loss) $ 247 $ 147 $ 1,362 $ (38 ) $ (1,471 ) $ 247 Other comprehensive loss, net of tax Other comprehensive loss, net of tax (2 ) (2 ) (2 ) — 4 (2 ) Total comprehensive income (loss) $ 245 $ 145 $ 1,360 $ (38 ) $ (1,467 ) $ 245 Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows Information Year Ended December 31, 2016 (in millions) Parent Issuer Guarantor Subsidiaries Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries Consolidating and Eliminating Adjustments Consolidated Operating activities Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities $ 6 $ (2,031 ) $ 8,166 $ 104 $ (110 ) $ 6,135 Investing activities Purchases of property and equipment — — (4,702 ) — — (4,702 ) Purchases of spectrum licenses and other intangible assets, including deposits — — (3,968 ) — — (3,968 ) Sales of short-term investments — 2,000 998 — — 2,998 Other, net — — (8 ) — — (8 ) Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities — 2,000 (7,680 ) — — (5,680 ) Financing activities Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt — 997 — — — 997 Repayments of capital lease obligations — — (205 ) — — (205 ) Repayments of short-term debt for purchases of inventory, property and equipment, net — — (150 ) — — (150 ) Repayments of long-term debt — — (20 ) — — (20 ) Proceeds from exercise of stock options 29 — — — — 29 Tax withholdings on share-based awards — — (121 ) — — (121 ) Intercompany dividend paid — — — (110 ) 110 — Dividends on preferred stock (55 ) — — — — (55 ) Other, net — — (12 ) — — (12 ) Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities (26 ) 997 (508 ) (110 ) 110 463 Change in cash and cash equivalents (20 ) 966 (22 ) (6 ) — 918 Cash and cash equivalents Beginning of period 378 1,767 2,364 73 — 4,582 End of period $ 358 $ 2,733 $ 2,342 $ 67 $ — $ 5,500 Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows Information Year Ended December 31, 2015 (in millions) Parent Issuer Guarantor Subsidiaries Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries Consolidating and Eliminating Adjustments Consolidated Operating activities Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities $ (1 ) $ (4,504 ) $ 9,940 $ 154 $ (175 ) $ 5,414 Investing activities Purchases of property and equipment — — (4,724 ) — — (4,724 ) Purchases of spectrum licenses and other intangible assets, including deposits — — (1,935 ) — — (1,935 ) Purchases of short-term investments — (1,999 ) (998 ) — — (2,997 ) Investment in subsidiaries (1,905 ) — — — 1,905 — Other, net — — 96 — — 96 Net cash used in investing activities (1,905 ) (1,999 ) (7,561 ) — 1,905 (9,560 ) Financing activities Proceeds from capital contribution — 1,905 — — (1,905 ) — Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt — 3,979 — — — 3,979 Proceeds from tower obligations — 140 — — — 140 Repayments of capital lease obligations — — (57 ) — — (57 ) Repayments of short-term debt for purchases of inventory, property and equipment, net — — (564 ) — — (564 ) Proceeds from exercise of stock options 47 — — — — 47 Intercompany dividend paid — — — (175 ) 175 — Tax withholdings on share-based awards — — (156 ) — — (156 ) Dividends on preferred stock (41 ) — (14 ) — — (55 ) Other, net — — 79 — — 79 Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities 6 6,024 (712 ) (175 ) (1,730 ) 3,413 Change in cash and cash equivalents (1,900 ) (479 ) 1,667 (21 ) — (733 ) Cash and cash equivalents Beginning of period 2,278 2,246 697 94 — 5,315 End of period $ 378 $ 1,767 $ 2,364 $ 73 $ — $ 4,582 Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows Information Year Ended December 31, 2014 (in millions) Parent Issuer Guarantor Subsidiaries Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries Consolidating and Eliminating Adjustments Consolidated Operating activities Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities $ 9 $ (5,145 ) $ 9,364 $ 18 $ (100 ) $ 4,146 Investing activities Purchases of property and equipment — — (4,317 ) — — (4,317 ) Purchases of spectrum licenses and other intangible assets, including deposits — — (2,900 ) — — (2,900 ) Investment in subsidiaries (1,700 ) — — — 1,700 — Other, net — — (29 ) — — (29 ) Net cash used in investing activities (1,700 ) — (7,246 ) — 1,700 (7,246 ) Financing activities Proceeds from capital contribution — 1,700 — — (1,700 ) — Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt — 2,993 — — — 2,993 Repayments of capital lease obligations — — (19 ) — — (19 ) Repayments of short-term debt for purchases of inventory, property and equipment, net — — (418 ) — — (418 ) Repayments of long-term debt — — (1,000 ) — — (1,000 ) Proceeds from exercise of stock options 27 — — — — 27 Proceeds from issuance of preferred stock 982 — — — — 982 Intercompany dividend paid — — — (100 ) 100 — Tax withholdings on share-based awards — — (73 ) — — (73 ) Other, net — — 32 — — 32 Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities 1,009 4,693 (1,478 ) (100 ) (1,600 ) 2,524 Change in cash and cash equivalents (682 ) (452 ) 640 (82 ) — (576 ) Cash and cash equivalents Beginning of period 2,960 2,698 57 176 — 5,891 End of period $ 2,278 $ 2,246 $ 697 $ 94 $ — $ 5,315

Quarterly Financial Information

Quarterly Financial Information (Notes)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Quarterly Financial Information [Abstract]
Quarterly Financial Information [Text Block]	Supplementary Data Quarterly Financial Information (Unaudited) (in millions, except shares and per share amounts) First Quarter Second Quarter Third Quarter Fourth Quarter Full Year 2016 Total revenues $ 8,599 $ 9,222 $ 9,246 $ 10,175 $ 37,242 Operating income 1,103 768 989 942 3,802 Net income 479 225 366 390 1,460 Dividends on preferred stock (14 ) (14 ) (13 ) (14 ) (55 ) Net income attributable to common stockholders 465 211 353 376 1,405 Earnings per share Basic $ 0.57 $ 0.26 $ 0.43 $ 0.46 $ 1.71 Diluted $ 0.56 $ 0.25 $ 0.42 $ 0.45 $ 1.69 Weighted average shares outstanding Basic 819,431,761 822,434,490 822,998,697 824,982,734 822,470,275 Diluted 859,382,827 829,752,956 832,257,819 867,262,400 833,054,545 Net income includes: Cost of MetroPCS business combination $ 36 $ 59 $ 15 $ (6 ) $ 104 Gains on disposal of spectrum licenses (636 ) — (199 ) — (835 ) 2015 Total revenues $ 7,778 $ 8,179 $ 7,849 $ 8,247 $ 32,053 Operating income 117 597 513 838 2,065 Net income (loss) (63 ) 361 138 297 733 Dividends on preferred stock (14 ) (14 ) (13 ) (14 ) (55 ) Net income (loss) attributable to common stockholders (77 ) 347 125 283 678 Earnings (loss) per share Basic $ (0.09 ) $ 0.43 $ 0.15 $ 0.35 $ 0.83 Diluted $ (0.09 ) $ 0.42 $ 0.15 $ 0.34 $ 0.82 Weighted average shares outstanding Basic 808,605,526 811,605,031 815,069,272 816,585,782 812,994,028 Diluted 808,605,526 821,122,537 822,017,220 824,716,119 822,617,938 Net income (loss) includes: Cost of MetroPCS business combination $ 128 $ 34 $ 193 $ 21 $ 376 Gains on disposal of spectrum licenses — (23 ) (1 ) (139 ) (163 ) Earnings (loss) per share is computed independently for each quarter and the sum of the quarters may not equal earnings (loss) per share for the full year.

Summary of Significant Accoun25

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Description of Business	Description of Business T-Mobile US, Inc. (“T-Mobile,” “we,” “our,” “us” or the “Company”), together with its consolidated subsidiaries, is a leading provider of mobile communications services, including voice, messaging and data, under its flagship brands, T-Mobile and MetroPCS, in the United States (“U.S.”), Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. We provide mobile communications services primarily using 4G Long-Term Evolution (“LTE”) technology. We also offer a wide selection of wireless devices, including handsets, tablets and other mobile communication devices, and accessories for sale, as well as financing through Equipment Installment Plans (“EIP”) and leasing through JUMP On Demand™. Additionally, we provide reinsurance for handset insurance policies and extended warranty contracts offered to our mobile communications customers.
Basis of Presentation	Basis of Presentation The consolidated financial statements include the balances and results of operations of T-Mobile and our consolidated subsidiaries. We operate as a single operating segment. We consolidate majority-owned subsidiaries over which we exercise control, as well as variable interest entities (“VIE”) where we are deemed to be the primary beneficiary and VIEs, which cannot be deconsolidated, such as those related to Tower obligations. Intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated in consolidation.
Reclassification	Certain prior year amounts relating to the adoption of Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2015-03, “Simplifying the Presentation of Debt Issuance Costs,” have been reclassified to conform to the current presentation. See “Accounting Pronouncements Adopted During the Current Year” below.
Use of Estimates	The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”) requires our management to make estimates and assumptions which affect the financial statements and accompanying notes. Examples include service revenues earned but not yet billed, service revenues billed but not yet earned, relative selling prices, allowances for uncollectible accounts and sales returns, discounts for imputed interest on EIP receivables, guarantee liabilities, losses incurred but not yet reported, tax liabilities, deferred income taxes including valuation allowances, useful lives of long-lived assets, cost estimates of asset retirement obligations, residual values on leased handsets, reasonably assured renewal terms for operating leases, stock-based compensation forfeiture rates, and fair value measurements related to goodwill, spectrum licenses, intangible assets, and derivative financial instruments. Estimates are based on historical experience, where applicable, and other assumptions which our management believes are reasonable under the circumstances. These estimates are inherently subject to judgment and actual results could differ from those estimates.
Cash and Cash Equivalents	Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash equivalents consist of highly liquid money market funds and U.S. Treasury securities with remaining maturities of three months or less at the date of purchase.
Short-Term Investment	Short-Term Investments Our short-term investments consist of U.S. Treasury securities classified as available for sale, which are stated at fair value and have remaining maturities of more than three months at the date of purchase. Unrealized gains and losses, net of related income taxes, on available for sale securities are reported as net increases and decreases to Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (“AOCI”), a component of stockholders' equity, until realized. The estimated fair values of our short-term investments are based on quoted market prices as of the end of the reporting period. The U.S. Treasury securities reported as of December 31, 2015 matured during 2016. We review our available-for-sale securities for impairment on a quarterly basis or more often if a potential loss-triggering event occurs. If there has been a decline in the fair value below the amortized cost basis, we assess whether the impairment is other-than-temporary by considering, among other factors, the reason for the decline in fair value, our intent to sell the security, whether it is more likely than not that we will be required to sell the security before recovery of its amortized cost basis and whether we do not expect to recover the entire amortized cost basis of the security. If we determine the impairment is other-than-temporary, we record a charge to Other expense, net in our Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income .
Accounts Receivable and Allowances	Accounts Receivable and Allowances Accounts receivable consist primarily of amounts billed and currently due from customers, other carriers and third-party retail channels (“dealers”), as well as revenues earned but not yet billed at the end of each period. Accounts receivable not held for sale are reported in the balance sheet at outstanding principal adjusted for any charge-offs and the allowance for credit losses. Accounts receivable held for sale are reported at the lower of amortized cost or fair value. We have an arrangement to sell the majority of service accounts receivable on a revolving basis, which are treated as sales of financial assets. We maintain an allowance for estimated losses inherent in the accounts receivable portfolio based on a number of factors, including historical experience and current collection trends, aging of the receivable portfolio, credit quality of the customer base and other qualitative factors such as macro-economic conditions. We write off account balances if collection efforts are unsuccessful and the receivable balance is deemed uncollectible, based on customer credit ratings and the length of time from the original billing date.
Equipment Installment Plan Receivables	Equipment Installment Plan Receivables We offer certain retail customers the option to pay for their devices and other purchases in installments over a period of up to 24 months using an EIP. EIP not held for sale are reported in the balance sheet at outstanding principal adjusted for any charge-offs, allowance for credit losses and unamortized discounts. Accounts receivable held for sale are reported at the lower of amortized cost or fair value. At the time of an installment sale, we impute a discount for interest as there is no stated rate of interest on the EIP receivables and record the EIP receivables at their present value, which is determined by discounting future payments at the imputed interest rate. The difference between the present value of the EIP receivables and their face amount results in a discount which is recorded as a direct reduction to the carrying value with a corresponding reduction to equipment revenues in our Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income . We determine the imputed discount rate based primarily on current market interest rates and the amount of expected credit losses on the EIP receivables. As a result, we do not recognize a separate valuation allowance at the time of issuance as the effects of uncertainty about future cash flows are included in the initial present value measurement of the receivable. The imputed discount on EIP receivables is amortized over the financed installment term using the effective interest method and recognized as Interest income in our Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income . Subsequent to the initial determination of the imputed discount, we assess the need for and, if necessary, recognize an allowance for credit losses to the extent the amount of estimated probable losses on the gross EIP receivable balances exceed the remaining unamortized imputed discount balances. The allowance is based on a number of factors, including collection experience, aging of the EIP receivable portfolio, credit quality of the customer base and other qualitative factors such as macro-economic conditions. We write off account balances if collection efforts are unsuccessful and the receivable balance is deemed uncollectible, based on customer credit ratings and the length of time from the original billing date. Equipment sales not reasonably assured to be collectible are recorded on a cash basis as payments are received. The current portion of the EIP receivables is included in Equipment installment plan receivables, net and the long-term portion of the EIP receivables is included in Equipment installment plan receivables due after one year, net in our Consolidated Balance Sheets . We have an arrangement to sell certain EIP receivables on a revolving basis, which are treated as sales of financial assets.
Inventories	Inventories Inventories consist primarily of wireless devices and accessories, which are valued at the lower of cost or market. Cost is determined using standard cost which approximates average cost. Shipping and handling costs paid to wireless device and accessories vendors, and costs to refurbish used devices recovered through our device upgrade programs are included in the standard cost of inventory. We record inventory write-downs to net realizable value for obsolete and slow-moving items based on inventory turnover trends and historical experience.
Long-Lived Assets	Long-Lived Assets Long-lived assets include assets that do not have indefinite lives, such as property and equipment and other intangible assets. We assess potential impairments to our long-lived assets when events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying amount of the asset may not be recoverable. If any indicators of impairment are present, we test recoverability. The carrying value of a long-lived asset or asset group is not recoverable if it exceeds the sum of the undiscounted cash flows expected to be generated from the use and eventual disposition of the asset or asset group. If the undiscounted cash flows do not exceed the asset or asset group’s carrying amount, then an impairment loss is recorded, measured as the amount by which the carrying amount of a long-lived asset or asset group exceeds its fair value. Property and Equipment Property and equipment consists of buildings and equipment, wireless communication systems, leasehold improvements, capitalized software, leased wireless devices and construction in progress. Buildings and equipment include certain network server equipment. Wireless communication systems include assets to operate our wireless network and IT data centers, including tower assets and leasehold improvements, assets related to the liability for the retirement of long-lived assets and capital leases. Leasehold improvements include asset improvements other than those related to the wireless network. Property and equipment are recorded at cost less accumulated depreciation and impairments, if any, in Property and equipment, net on our Consolidated Balance Sheets . We generally depreciate property and equipment over the period the property and equipment provide economic benefit. Depreciable life studies are performed periodically to confirm the appropriateness of useful lives for certain categories of property and equipment. These studies take into account actual usage, physical wear and tear, replacement history and assumptions about technology evolution. When these factors indicate the useful life of an asset is different from the previous assessment, the remaining book value is depreciated prospectively over the adjusted remaining estimated useful life. Leasehold improvements are depreciated over the shorter of their estimated useful lives or the related lease term. In 2015, we introduced JUMP! On Demand which allows customers to lease a device over a period up to 18 months and upgrade it for a new one up to three times in a 12 month period. To date, all of our leased devices were classified as operating leases by considering critical elements of the lease arrangement such as the lease term and the economic life, fair value and residual value of the device. At operating lease inception, leased wireless devices are transferred from inventory to property and equipment. Leased wireless devices are depreciated to their estimated residual value over the period expected to provide utility to us, which is generally the lease term. Revenues associated with the leased wireless devices, net of incentives, are generally recognized over the lease term. Upon device upgrade or at lease end, customers must return or purchase their device. Returned devices transferred from Property and equipment, net are recorded as inventory and are valued at the lower of cost or market with any write-down to market recognized as Cost of equipment sales in our Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income . Costs of major replacements and improvements are capitalized. Repair and maintenance expenditures which do not enhance or extend the asset’s useful life are charged to operating expenses as incurred. Construction costs, labor and overhead incurred in the expansion or enhancement of our wireless network are capitalized. Capitalization commences with pre-construction period administrative and technical activities, which includes obtaining leases, zoning approvals and building permits, and ceases at the point at which the asset is ready for its intended use. We capitalize interest associated with the acquisition or construction of certain property and equipment. Capitalized interest is reported as a reduction in interest expense and depreciated over the useful life of the related assets. Future obligations related to capital leases are included in Short-term debt and Long-term debt in our Consolidated Balance Sheets . Depreciation of assets held under capital leases is included in Depreciation and amortization expense in our Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income .
Asset Retirement Obligations	We record an asset retirement obligation for the fair value of legal obligations associated with the retirement of tangible long-lived assets and a corresponding increase in the carrying amount of the related asset in the period in which the obligation is incurred. In periods subsequent to initial measurement, we recognize changes in the liability resulting from the passage of time and revisions to either the timing or the amount of the original estimate. Over time, the liability is accreted to its present value and the capitalized cost is depreciated over the estimated useful life of the asset. Our obligations relate primarily to certain legal obligations to remediate leased property on which our network infrastructure and administrative assets are located.
Software Capitalization	We capitalize certain costs incurred in connection with developing or acquiring internal use software. Capitalization of software costs commences once the final selection of the specific software solution has been made and management authorizes and commits to funding the software project. Capitalized software costs are included in Property and equipment, net in our Consolidated Balance Sheets and are amortized on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful life of the asset. Costs incurred during the preliminary project stage, as well as maintenance and training costs are expensed as incurred.
Other Intangible Assets	Other Intangible Assets Intangible assets that do not have indefinite useful lives are amortized over their estimated useful lives. Customer lists are amortized using the sum-of-the-years-digits method over the expected period in which the relationship is expected to contribute to future cash flows. The remaining finite-lived intangible assets are amortized using the straight-line method.
Goodwill	Goodwill Goodwill consists of the excess of the purchase price over the fair value of identifiable net assets acquired in a business combination.
Spectrum Licenses	Spectrum Licenses Spectrum licenses are carried at costs incurred to acquire the spectrum licenses and the costs to prepare the spectrum licenses for their intended use, such as costs to clear acquired spectrum licenses. The Federal Communications Commission (“FCC”) issues spectrum licenses which provide us with the exclusive right to utilize designated radio frequency spectrum within specific geographic service areas to provide wireless communication services. While spectrum licenses are issued for a fixed period of time, typically for up to fifteen years, the FCC has granted license renewals routinely and at a nominal cost. The spectrum licenses held by us expire at various dates. We believe we will be able to meet all requirements necessary to secure renewal of our spectrum licenses at nominal costs. Moreover, we determined there are currently no legal, regulatory, contractual, competitive, economic or other factors that limit the useful lives of our spectrum licenses. Therefore, we determined the spectrum licenses should be treated as indefinite-lived intangible assets. At times, we enter into agreements to sell or exchange spectrum licenses. Upon entering into the arrangement, if the transaction has been deemed to have commercial substance, spectrum licenses are reviewed for impairment and transferred at their carrying value, net of any impairment, to assets held for sale included in Other current assets in our Consolidated Balance Sheets until approval and completion of the exchange or sale. Upon closing of the transaction, spectrum licenses acquired as part of an exchange of nonmonetary assets are valued at fair value and the difference between the fair value of the spectrum licenses obtained, book value of the spectrum licenses transferred and cash paid, if any, is recognized as a gain and included in Gains on disposal of spectrum licenses in our Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income . Our fair value estimates of spectrum licenses are based on information for which there is little or no observable market data. If the transaction lacks commercial substance or the fair value is not measurable, the acquired spectrum licenses are recorded at the book value of the assets transferred or exchanged.
Impairment Tests of Goodwill and Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets	Impairment We assess the carrying value of our goodwill and other indefinite-lived intangible assets, such as our spectrum licenses, for potential impairment annually as of December 31, or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate such assets might be impaired. We may elect to first perform a qualitative assessment to determine whether it is more likely than not the fair value of the single reporting unit is less than its carrying amount as a basis for determining whether it is necessary to perform the two-step goodwill impairment test. If we do not perform a qualitative assessment, or if the qualitative assessment indicates it is more likely than not the fair value of the single reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, goodwill is tested for impairment based on a two-step test. In the first step, we compare the fair value of the reporting unit to the carrying value. The fair value of the reporting unit is determined using a market approach, which is based on market capitalization. If the fair value is less than the carrying value, the second step is performed. In the second step, we determine the fair values of all of the assets and liabilities of the reporting unit, including those that may not be currently recorded. The excess of the fair value of the reporting unit over the sum of the fair value of all of those assets and liabilities represents the implied goodwill amount. If the implied fair value of goodwill is lower than its carrying amount, an impairment loss is recognized for the difference. We test our spectrum licenses for impairment on an aggregate basis, consistent with our management of the overall business at a national level. We may elect to first perform a qualitative assessment to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of an intangible asset group is less than its carrying value. If we do not perform the qualitative assessment, or if the qualitative assessment indicates it is more likely than not the fair value of the intangible asset group is less than its carrying amount, we calculate the estimated fair value of the intangible asset group. If the estimated fair value of the spectrum licenses is lower than their carrying amount, an impairment loss is recognized for the difference. We estimate fair value using the Greenfield approach, which is an income approach, to estimate the price at which an orderly transaction to sell the asset would take place between market participants at the measurement date under current market conditions.
Guarantee Liabilities	Guarantee Liabilities We offer a device trade-in program, Just Upgrade My Phone (“JUMP!”), which provides eligible customers a specified-price trade-in right to upgrade their device. Participating customers must finance the purchase of a device on an EIP and have a qualifying T-Mobile monthly wireless service plan, which is treated as a single multiple-element arrangement when entered into at or near the same time. Upon a qualifying JUMP! program upgrade, the customer’s remaining EIP balance is settled provided they trade-in their eligible used device in good working condition and purchase a new device from us on a new EIP. For customers who enroll in JUMP!, we defer and recognize a liability for the portion of revenue which represents the estimated fair value of the specified-price trade-in right guarantee. The guarantee liability is valued based on various economic and customer behavioral assumptions, which requires judgment, including estimating the customer's remaining EIP balance at trade-in, the expected fair value of the used device at trade-in, and the probability and timing of trade-in. We assess our guarantee liability at each reporting date to determine if facts and circumstances would indicate the incurrence of an incremental contingent liability is probable and if so, reasonably estimable. The recognition and subsequent adjustments of the contingent guarantee liability as a result of these assessments are recorded as adjustments to revenue. When customers upgrade their device, the difference between the EIP balance credit to the customer and the fair value of the returned device is recorded against the guarantee liabilities.
Fair Value Measurement	Fair Value Measurements We carry certain assets and liabilities at fair value. Fair value is defined as an exit price, representing the amount that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. The three tier hierarchy for inputs used in measuring fair value, which prioritizes the inputs based on the observability as of the measurement date, is as follows: Level 1 Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities; Level 2 Observable inputs other than the quoted prices in active markets for identical assets and liabilities; and Level 3 Unobservable inputs for which there is little or no market data, which require us to develop assumptions of what market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability. Assets and liabilities are classified in their entirety based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement. Our assessment of the significance of a particular input to the fair value measurement requires judgment, and may affect the placement of assets and liabilities being measured within the fair value hierarchy. The carrying values of cash and cash equivalents, short-term investments, accounts receivable, accounts receivable from affiliates and accounts payable approximate fair value due to the short-term maturities of these instruments. The carrying values of EIP receivables approximate fair value as the receivables are recorded at their present value, net of unamortized discount and allowance for credit losses. There were no financial instruments with a carrying value materially different from their fair value, based on quoted market prices or rates for the same or similar instruments, or internal valuation models.
Derivative Financial Instruments	Derivative Financial Instruments Derivative financial instruments primarily relate to embedded derivatives for certain components of the reset feature of the Senior Reset Notes to affiliates, which are required to be bifurcated and are recorded on the Consolidated Balance Sheets at fair value. Changes in fair value are recognized in Interest expense to affiliates in our Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income . We do not enter into derivatives for trading or speculative purposes.
Revenue Recognition	Revenue Recognition We primarily generate our revenue from providing wireless services to customers and selling or leasing devices and accessories. We offer our wireless services and devices to customers through bundled arrangements, which may be comprised of multiple contracts entered into with a customer at or near the same time. In recognizing revenue, we assess such agreements as a single bundled arrangement that may involve multiple deliverables, which include wireless services, wireless devices or a combination thereof, and allocated revenue between each deliverable based on the relative selling prices of each deliverable on a standalone basis. In June 2016, we introduced #GetThanked, which offers eligible customers the following free promotional items as part of their T-Mobile service: • T-Mobile stock - A share of T-Mobile stock to eligible new (through December 31, 2016) or existing (as of June 6, 2016) customers. Shares issued to customers under this promotion are purchased by an independent third-party broker in the open market on behalf of eligible customers. The associated cost, which is paid by T-Mobile, is recorded as a reduction of service revenue for existing customers and as a reduction of equipment revenue for new customers in our Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income . Through December 31, 2016, existing eligible customers can also receive a share of T-Mobile stock (subject to a maximum of 100 shares in a calendar year) for every new active account they refer, purchased by the third-party broker and paid for by T-Mobile. The cost of shares issued under this refer-a-friend program are included in Selling, general and administrative expense in our Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income ; • Weekly surprise items - Each Tuesday, eligible customers who download the T-Mobile Tuesday app are informed about and can redeem products and services offered by participating business partners. The associated cost is included in Selling, general and administrative expense in our Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income ; and • In-flight Wi-Fi - A full hour of in-flight Wi-Fi free to eligible customers on their smartphone on all Gogo-equipped domestic flights. The associated cost, which is paid by T-Mobile, is included in Cost of services in our Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income . Wireless Services Revenue We generate our wireless service revenues from providing access to, and usage of, our wireless communications network. Service revenues also include revenues earned for providing value added services to customers, such as handset insurance services. Service revenues are billed either in advance or arrears or are prepaid and are recognized when the service is rendered and all other revenue recognition criteria have been met. Revenues that are not reasonably assured to be collectible are recorded on a cash basis as payments are received. The recognition of prepaid revenue is deferred until services are rendered or the prepaid balance expires. Incentives given to customers are recorded as a reduction to revenue. We recognize service revenues for Data Stash plans when such services are delivered and the data is consumed, or at time of forfeiture or expiration. Revenues relating to unused data that is carried over to the following month are deferred and valued based on their relative standalone selling price. Revenue is recorded gross for arrangements involving the resale of third-party services where we are considered the primary obligor and is recorded net of associated costs incurred for services whereby we are not considered the primary obligor. Federal Universal Service Fund (“USF”) and other fees are assessed by various governmental authorities in connection with the services we provide to our customers. When we separately bill and collect these regulatory fees from customers, they are recorded gross in Total service revenues and cost of services in our Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income . For the years ended December 31, 2016 , 2015 and 2014 , we recorded approximately $409 million , $334 million and $349 million , respectively, of USF and other fees on a gross basis. Equipment Revenues We generate equipment revenues from the sale or lease of mobile communication devices and accessories. Device and accessory sales revenues are generally recognized when the products are delivered to, and accepted by, the customer or dealer. We defer a portion of equipment revenues and cost of equipment sales for expected device returns based on historical experience. We offer certain customers the option to pay for devices and accessories in installments using an EIP. See EIP Receivables section above for further information. In addition, for customers enrolled in JUMP!, we separate the JUMP! trade-in right from the multiple element arrangement at its fair value and defer the portion of revenue which represents the fair value of the trade-in right. See Guarantee Liabilities section above for further information. In 2015, we introduced JUMP! On Demand, which allows customers to lease a device and upgrade their leased wireless device for a new one up to three times in a 12 month period. Leased wireless devices are accounted for as operating leases and lease revenues are recognized as earned on a straight-line basis over the lease term. The residual value of purchased leased devices is recorded as equipment revenues and cost of equipment sales. See Property and Equipment section above for further information.
Rent Expense	Rent Expense We have operating leases for cell sites, retail locations, corporate offices and dedicated transportation lines, some of which have escalating rentals during the initial lease term and during subsequent optional renewal periods. We recognize rent expense on a straight-line basis, over the non-cancelable lease term and renewal periods that are considered reasonably assured at the inception of the lease. We consider several factors in assessing whether renewal periods are reasonably assured of being exercised, including the continued maturation of our network nationwide, technological advances within the telecommunications industry and the availability of alternative sites.
Advertising Expense	Advertising Expense We expense the cost of advertising and other promotional expenditures to market our services and products as incurred. For the years ended December 31, 2016 , 2015 and 2014 , advertising expenses included in Selling, general and administrative expenses in our Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income were $1.7 billion , $1.6 billion and $1.4 billion , respectively.
Income Taxes	Income Taxes Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized based on temporary differences between the financial statement and tax bases of assets and liabilities using enacted tax rates expected to be in effect when these differences are realized. A valuation allowance is recorded when it is more likely than not that some portion or all of a deferred tax asset will not be realized. The ultimate realization of a deferred tax asset depends on the ability to generate sufficient taxable income of the appropriate character and in the appropriate taxing jurisdictions within the carryforward periods available. We account for uncertainty in income taxes recognized in the financial statements in accordance with the accounting guidance on the financial statement recognition and measurement of a tax position taken or expected to be taken in a tax return. We assess whether it is more likely than not that a tax position will be sustained upon examination based on the technical merits of the position and adjust the unrecognized tax benefits in light of changes in facts and circumstances, such as changes in tax law, interactions with taxing authorities and developments in case law.
Other Comprehensive Income	Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Other comprehensive income (loss) consists of adjustments, net of tax, related to unrealized gains (losses) on available-for-sale securities. This is reported in AOCI as a separate component of stockholders’ equity until realized in earnings.
Stock-Based Compensation	Stock-Based Compensation Stock-based compensation cost for stock awards, which include restricted stock units (“RSUs”) and performance-based restricted stock units (“PRSUs”), is measured at fair value on the grant date and recognized as expense, net of expected forfeitures, over the related service period. The fair value of stock awards is based on the closing price of our common stock on the date of grant. RSUs are recognized as expense using the straight-line method. PSUs are recognized as expense following a graded vesting schedule.
Earnings Per Share	Earnings Per Share Basic earnings per share is computed by dividing Net income attributable to common stockholders by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding for the period. Diluted earnings per share is computed by giving effect to all potentially dilutive common shares outstanding during the period. Potentially dilutive common shares consist of outstanding stock options, RSUs and PRSUs, calculated using the treasury stock method, and mandatory convertible preferred stock (“preferred stock”), calculated using the if-converted method.
Variable Interest Entities	Variable Interest Entities VIEs are entities which lack sufficient equity to permit the entity to finance its activities without additional subordinated financial support from other parties, have equity investors which do not have the ability to make significant decisions relating to the entity's operations through voting rights, do not have the obligation to absorb the expected losses or do not have the right to receive the residual returns of the entity. The most common type of VIE is a special purpose entity (“SPE”). SPEs are commonly used in securitization transactions in order to isolate certain assets and distribute the cash flows from those assets to investors. SPEs are generally structured to insulate investors from claims on the SPE's assets by creditors of other entities, including the creditors of the seller of the assets. The primary beneficiary is required to consolidate the assets and liabilities of the VIE. The primary beneficiary is the party which has both the power to direct the activities of an entity that most significantly impact the VIE's economic performance, and through its interests in the VIE, the obligation to absorb losses or the right to receive benefits from the VIE which could potentially be significant to the VIE. We consolidate VIEs when we are deemed to be the primary beneficiary or when the VIE cannot be deconsolidated. In assessing which party is the primary beneficiary, all the facts and circumstances are considered, including each party’s role in establishing the VIE and its ongoing rights and responsibilities. This assessment includes, first, identifying the activities that most significantly impact the VIE’s economic performance; and second, identifying which party, if any, has power over those activities. In general, the parties that make the most significant decisions affecting the VIE (such as asset managers and servicers) or have the right to unilaterally remove those decision-makers are deemed to have the power to direct the activities of a VIE.
Recently-Issued Accounting Standards	Accounting Pronouncements Adopted During the Current Year In March 2016, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (the “FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update (ASU) 2016-09, “Compensation - Stock Compensation (Topic 718): Improvements to Employee Share-Based Payment Accounting,” which simplifies several aspects of the accounting for shared-based payment transactions, including income tax consequences, classification of awards as either equity or liabilities, and classification on the statement of cash flows. We elected to adopt this standard effective as of January 1, 2016. The impacts on our consolidated financial statements from the adoption of this standard are as follows: • Consolidated Balance Sheets - A $38 million decrease to the January 1, 2016 Accumulated deficit balance from the recognition, on a modified retrospective basis, of all previously unrecognized income tax attributes related to share-based payments; • Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income - On a prospective basis, all excess tax benefits and deficiencies related to share-based payments will be recognized through Income tax expense . Prior period amounts were not adjusted; and • Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows - On a prospective basis, as permitted, excess tax benefits related to share-based payments will be presented as operating activities. Prior period amounts were not adjusted. In April 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-03, “Simplifying the Presentation of Debt Issuance Costs.” The standard requires debt issuance costs related to a recognized debt liability be presented in the balance sheet as a direct deduction from the carrying amount of that debt liability, consistent with debt discounts. The recognition and measurement guidance for debt issuance costs are not affected. We adopted this new guidance in the first quarter of 2016 and applied the changes retrospectively. The implementation of this standard did not have a significant impact on our consolidated financial statements . In August 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-15, “Disclosure of Uncertainties about an Entity’s Ability to Continue as a Going Concern.” The standard requires us to assess our ability to continue as a going concern each interim and annual reporting period and provide certain disclosures if there is substantial doubt about our ability to continue as a going concern, including management’s plan to alleviate the substantial doubt. We adopted this new guidance in the fourth quarter of 2016. The implementation of this standard did not have an impact on our consolidated financial statements . Accounting Pronouncements Not Yet Adopted In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-09, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers” (“ASU 2014-09”), and has since modified the standard with several ASU’s. The standard requires entities to recognize revenue through the application of a five-step model, which includes the: identification of the contract; identification of the performance obligations; determination of the transaction price; allocation of the transaction price to the performance obligations; and recognition of revenue as the entity satisfies the performance obligations. The standard becomes effective for us beginning January 1, 2018; however, early adoption with the original effective date for periods beginning January 1, 2017 is permitted. We plan to adopt the standard when it becomes effective for us beginning January 1, 2018. The guidance permits two methods of adoption, the full retrospective method applying the standard to each prior reporting period presented, or the modified retrospective method with a cumulative effect of initially applying the guidance recognized at the date of initial application. The standard also allows entities to apply certain practical expedients at their discretion. We currently anticipate adopting the standard using the modified retrospective method with a cumulative catch up adjustment and providing additional disclosures comparing results to previous rules. We continue to evaluate the impact of the new standard on our consolidated financial statements but anticipate this standard will have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements . While we are continuing to assess all potential impacts of the standard, we currently believe the most significant impacts may include the following items: • Whether our EIP contracts contain a significant financing component, which is similar to our current practice of imputing interest, and would similarly impact the amount of revenue recognized at the time of an EIP sale and whether or not a portion of the revenue is recognized as interest rather than equipment revenue. • As we currently expense contract acquisition costs and believe that the requirement to defer incremental contract acquisition costs and recognize them over the term of the initial contract and anticipated renewal contracts to which the costs relate will have a significant impact to our consolidated financial statements. • Whether bill credits earned over time result in extended service contracts, which would impact the allocation and timing of revenue between service revenue and equipment revenue. • Overall, with the exception of the aforementioned impacts, we do not expect that the new standard will result in a substantive change to the method of allocation of contract revenues between various services and equipment, nor to the timing of when revenues are recognized for most of our service contracts. We are still in the process of evaluating these impacts, and our initial assessment may change as we continue to refine our systems, process and assumptions. We are in the process of implementing significant new revenue accounting systems, processes and internal controls over revenue recognition which will ultimately assist us in the application of the new standard. In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02, “Leases.” The standard requires all lessees to report a right-of-use asset and a lease liability for most leases. The income statement recognition is similar to existing lease accounting and is based on lease classification. The standard requires lessees and lessors to classify most leases using principles similar to existing lease accounting, but eliminates the “bright line” classification tests. For lessors, the standard modifies the classification criteria and the accounting for sales-type and direct financing leases. The standard will become effective for us beginning January 1, 2019 and will require recognizing and measuring leases at the beginning of the earliest period presented using a modified retrospective approach. Early adoption is permitted. We are currently evaluating the standard and the timing of adoption but expect that it will have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements . In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-13, “Financial Instruments - Credit Losses (Topic 326): Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments.” The standard requires a financial asset (or a group of financial assets) measured at amortized cost basis to be presented at the net amount expected to be collected. The measurement of expected credit losses is based on relevant information about past events, including historical experience, current conditions and reasonable and supportable forecasts that affect the collectibility of the reported amount. The standard will become effective for us beginning January 1, 2020 and will require a cumulative-effect adjustment to Accumulated deficit as of the beginning of the first reporting period in which the guidance is effective (that is, a modified-retrospective approach). Early adoption is permitted for us as of January 1, 2019. We are currently evaluating the impact this guidance will have on our consolidated financial statements and the timing of adoption. In August 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-15, “Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230): Classification of Certain Cash Receipts and Cash Payments.” The standard provides guidance on how certain cash receipts and payments are presented and classified in the statement of cash flows, including beneficial interests in securitization, which would impact the presentation of the deferred purchase price from sales of receivables. The standard is intended to reduce current diversity in practice. The standard will become effective for us beginning January 1, 2018 and will require a retrospective approach. Early adoption is permitted, including adoption in an interim period. We are currently evaluating the impact this guidance will have on our consolidated financial statements and the timing of adoption. In October 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-16, “Accounting for Income Taxes: Intra-Entity Transfers of Assets Other Than Inventory.” The standard requires that the income tax impact of intra-entity sales and transfers of property, except for inventory, be recognized when the transfer occurs. The standard will become effective for us beginning January 1, 2018 and will require any deferred taxes not yet recognized on intra-entity transfers to be recorded to retained earnings under a modified retrospective approach. Early adoption is permitted. We are currently evaluating the standard, but expect that it will not have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements . In November 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-18, “Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230): Restricted Cash.” The standard requires entities to include in their cash and cash-equivalent balances in the statement of cash flows those amounts that are deemed to be restricted cash and restricted cash equivalents. The ASU does not define the terms “restricted cash” and “restricted cash equivalents.” The standard will be effective for us beginning January 1, 2018 and will require a retrospective approach. Early adoption is permitted. We are currently evaluating the standard, but expect that it will not have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements . In January 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-04, “Intangibles - Goodwill and Other (Topic 350): Simplifying the Test for Goodwill Impairment.” The standard eliminates the requirement to measure the implied fair value of goodwill by assigning the fair value of a reporting unit to all assets and liabilities within that unit (“the Step 2 test”) from the goodwill impairment test. Instead, if the carrying amount of a reporting unit exceeds its fair value, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to that excess, limited by the amount of goodwill in that reporting unit. The standard will become effective for us beginning January 1, 2020 and must be applied to any annual or interim goodwill impairment assessments after that date. Early adoption is permitted. We are currently evaluating the standard, but expect that it will not have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements .

Equipment Installment Plan Re26

Equipment Installment Plan Receivables (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Receivables [Abstract]
Schedule of Equipment Installment Plan Receivables	The following table summarizes the EIP receivables: (in millions) December 31, December 31, EIP receivables, gross $ 3,230 $ 3,558 Unamortized imputed discount (195 ) (185 ) EIP receivables, net of unamortized imputed discount 3,035 3,373 Allowance for credit losses (121 ) (148 ) EIP receivables, net $ 2,914 $ 3,225 Classified on the balance sheet as: Equipment installment plan receivables, net $ 1,930 $ 2,378 Equipment installment plan receivables due after one year, net 984 847 EIP receivables, net $ 2,914 $ 3,225
Schedule of Equipment Installment Plan Receivables by Credit Category	The balance and aging of the EIP receivables on a gross basis by credit category were as follows: December 31, 2016 December 31, 2015 (in millions) Prime Subprime Total Prime Subprime Total Unbilled $ 1,343 $ 1,686 $ 3,029 $ 1,593 $ 1,698 $ 3,291 Billed – Current 51 77 128 77 91 168 Billed – Past Due 25 48 73 37 62 99 EIP receivables, gross $ 1,419 $ 1,811 $ 3,230 $ 1,707 $ 1,851 $ 3,558
Schedule of Unamortized Imputed Discount and Allowance for Credit Losses for Equipment Installment Plan Receivables	Activity for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 in the unamortized imputed discount and allowance for credit losses balances for the EIP receivables was as follows: (in millions) December 31, December 31, Imputed discount and allowance for credit losses, beginning of year $ 333 $ 448 Bad debt expense 250 365 Write-offs, net of recoveries (277 ) (333 ) Change in imputed discount on short-term and long-term EIP receivables 186 (84 ) Impacts from sales of EIP receivables (176 ) (63 ) Imputed discount and allowance for credit losses, end of year $ 316 $ 333

Sales of Certain Receivables Tr

Sales of Certain Receivables Transfers of Financial Assets (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Transfers and Servicing [Abstract]
Schedule of Variable Interest Entities	The following table summarizes the carrying amounts and classification of assets, which consists primarily of the deferred purchase price and liabilities included in our Consolidated Balance Sheets that relate to our variable interest in the Service VIE: (in millions) December 31, December 31, Other current assets $ 207 $ 206 Accounts payable and accrued liabilities 17 — Other current liabilities 129 73
Schedule of variable interest entities - EIP	The following table summarizes the carrying amounts and classification of assets (primarily the deferred purchase price) and liabilities included in our Consolidated Balance Sheets that relate to the EIP BRE: (in millions) December 31, December 31, Other current assets $ 371 $ 164 Other assets 83 44 Accounts payable and accrued liabilities — 14 Other long-term liabilities 4 3
Schedule of Factoring Arrangement	The following table summarizes the impacts of the sale of certain service receivables and EIP receivables in our Consolidated Balance Sheets : (in millions) December 31, December 31, Derecognized net service receivables and EIP receivables $ 2,502 $ 1,850 Other current assets 578 370 of which, deferred purchase price 576 345 Other long-term assets 83 44 of which, deferred purchase price 83 44 Accounts payable and accrued liabilities 17 14 Other current liabilities 129 73 Other long-term liabilities 4 3 Net cash proceeds since inception 2,030 1,494 Of which: Net cash proceeds during the year-to-date period 536 884 Net cash proceeds funded by reinvested collections 1,494 610

Property and Equipment (Tables)

Property and Equipment (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Property and Equipment [Abstract]
Schedule of Property and Equipment	The components of property and equipment were as follows: (in millions) Useful Lives December 31, December 31, Buildings and equipment Up to 40 years $ 1,657 $ 1,900 Wireless communications systems Up to 20 years 29,272 27,063 Leasehold improvements Up to 12 years 1,068 1,003 Capitalized software Up to 7 years 8,488 8,524 Leased wireless devices Up to 18 months 2,624 2,236 Construction in progress 2,613 2,466 Accumulated depreciation and amortization (24,779 ) (23,192 ) Property and equipment, net $ 20,943 $ 20,000
Schedule of Leased Wireless Devices	The components of leased wireless devices under our JUMP! On Demand program were as follows: (in millions) December 31, December 31, Leased wireless devices, gross $ 2,624 $ 2,236 Accumulated depreciation (1,193 ) (263 ) Leased wireless devices, net $ 1,431 $ 1,973
Schedule of Future Minimum Rental Payments	Future minimum payments expected to be received over the lease term related to the leased wireless devices, which exclude optional residual buy-out amounts at the end of the lease term, are summarized below: (in millions) Total Year Ending December 31, 2017 $ 710 2018 92 Total $ 802
Schedule of Asset Retirement Obligations	Activity in our asset retirement obligations was as follows: (in millions) December 31, December 31, Asset retirement obligations, beginning of year $ 483 $ 390 Liabilities incurred 50 19 Liabilities settled (67 ) (130 ) Accretion expense 24 17 Changes in estimated cash flows 49 187 Asset retirement obligations, end of year $ 539 $ 483 Classified on the balance sheet as: Other current liabilities $ 16 $ 41 Other long-term liabilities 523 442 Asset retirement obligations $ 539 $ 483

(Tables)

(Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Spectrum Licenses	The following table summarizes our spectrum license activity: (in millions) December 31, 2016 December 31, 2015 Spectrum licenses, beginning of year $ 23,955 $ 21,955 Spectrum license acquisitions 3,334 2,615 Spectrum licenses transferred to held for sale (324 ) (727 ) Costs to clear spectrum 49 112 Spectrum licenses, end of year $ 27,014 $ 23,955
Schedule of Other Intangible Assets	The components of intangible assets were as follows: Useful Lives December 31, 2016 December 31, 2015 (in millions) Gross Accumulated Amortization Net Gross Accumulated Amortization Net Customer lists Up to 6 years $ 1,104 $ (894 ) $ 210 $ 1,104 $ (719 ) $ 385 Trademarks and patents Up to 12 years 303 (156 ) 147 300 (115 ) 185 Other Up to 28 years 50 (31 ) 19 51 (27 ) 24 Other intangible assets $ 1,457 $ (1,081 ) $ 376 $ 1,455 $ (861 ) $ 594
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Future Amortization Expense [Table Text Block]	The estimated aggregate future amortization expense for intangible assets subject to amortization are summarized below: (in millions) Estimated Future Amortization Year Ending December 31, 2017 $ 163 2018 104 2019 52 2020 34 2021 14 Thereafter 9 Total $ 376

Fair Value Measurements and D30

Fair Value Measurements and Derivative Instruments (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Schedule of Fair Value of Derivative Instruments	The fair value of embedded derivative instruments by balance sheet location and level were as follows: December 31, 2016 (in millions) Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Total Other long-term liabilities $ — $ — $ 118 $ 118 December 31, 2015 (in millions) Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Total Other long-term liabilities $ — $ — $ 143 $ 143
Schedule of Gains (Losses) on Derivative Instruments	The following table summarizes the gain (loss) activity related to embedded derivatives instruments recognized in Interest expense to affiliates: Year Ended December 31, (in millions) 2016 2015 2014 Embedded derivatives $ 25 $ (148 ) $ 18
Schedule of Carrying Values and Fair Values of Long-term Debt	The carrying amounts and fair values of our short-term investments and long-term debt included in our Consolidated Balance Sheets were as follows: Level within the Fair Value Hierarchy December 31, 2016 December 31, 2015 (in millions) Carrying Amount Fair Value Carrying Amount Fair Value Assets: Short-term investments 1 $ — $ — $ 2,998 $ 2,998 Deferred purchase price assets 3 659 659 389 389 Liabilities: Senior Notes to third parties 1 $ 18,600 $ 19,584 $ 17,600 $ 18,098 Senior Reset Notes to affiliates 2 5,600 5,955 5,600 6,072 Senior Secured Term Loans 2 1,980 2,005 2,000 1,990 Guarantee Liabilities 3 135 135 163 163

Debt (Tables)

Debt (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Long-term Debt	Debt was as follows: (in millions) December 31, December 31, 5.250% Senior Notes due 2018 $ 500 $ 500 6.288% Senior Reset Notes to affiliates due 2019 1,250 1,250 6.464% Senior Notes due 2019 1,250 1,250 6.366% Senior Reset Notes to affiliates due 2020 1,250 1,250 6.542% Senior Notes due 2020 1,250 1,250 6.625% Senior Notes due 2020 1,000 1,000 6.250% Senior Notes due 2021 1,750 1,750 6.633% Senior Notes due 2021 1,250 1,250 8.097% Senior Reset Notes to affiliates due 2021 1,250 1,250 6.125% Senior Notes due 2022 1,000 1,000 6.731% Senior Notes due 2022 1,250 1,250 8.195% Senior Reset Notes to affiliates due 2022 1,250 1,250 6.000% Senior Notes due 2023 1,300 1,300 6.625% Senior Notes due 2023 1,750 1,750 6.836% Senior Notes due 2023 600 600 9.332% Senior Reset Notes to affiliates due 2023 600 600 6.000% Senior Notes due 2024 1,000 — 6.500% Senior Notes due 2024 1,000 1,000 6.375% Senior Notes due 2025 1,700 1,700 6.500% Senior Notes due 2026 2,000 2,000 Senior Secured Term Loans 1,980 2,000 Capital leases 1,425 826 Unamortized premium from purchase price allocation fair value adjustment 212 250 Unamortized discount on Senior Secured Term Loans (8 ) (10 ) Debt issuance cost (23 ) (23 ) Total debt 27,786 26,243 Less: Current portion of Senior Secured Term Loans 20 20 Less: Current portion of capital leases 334 162 Total long-term debt $ 27,432 $ 26,061 Classified on the balance sheet as: Long-term debt $ 21,832 $ 20,461 Long-term debt to affiliates 5,600 5,600 Total long-term debt $ 27,432 $ 26,061
Schedule of Future Minimum Lease Payments for Capital Leases	Future minimum payments required under capital leases, including interest, over their remaining terms are summarized below: (in millions) Future Minimum Payments Year Ending December 31, 2017 $ 390 2018 354 2019 315 2020 200 2021 150 Thereafter 214 Total $ 1,623 Interest included $ 198
Schedule of Letters of Credit	The following table summarizes the outstanding standby letters of credit under each agreement: (in millions) December 31, December 31, JP Morgan Chase $ 20 $ 36 Deutsche Bank 54 54 Total outstanding balance $ 74 $ 90

Tower Obligations Tables

Tower Obligations Tables	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Leases [Abstract]
Summary of Impacts to Consolidated Balance Sheets	The following table summarizes the impacts to the Consolidated Balance Sheets : (in millions) December 31, December 31, Property and equipment, net $ 485 $ 601 Tower obligations 2,621 2,658
Schedule of Future Minimum Financial Obligations	Future minimum payments related to the tower obligations are summarized below: (in millions) Future Minimum Payments Year Ending December 31, 2017 $ 184 2018 184 2019 184 2020 185 2021 185 Thereafter 1,164 Total $ 2,086

Employee Compensation and Ben33

Employee Compensation and Benefit Plans (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]
Schedule of Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Table Text Block]	Stock-based compensation expense and related income tax benefits were as follows: (in millions, except shares, per share and contractual life amounts) December 31, December 31, December 31, Stock-based compensation expense $ 235 $ 201 $ 196 Income tax benefit related to stock-based compensation 80 71 73 Realized excess tax benefit — 79 34 Weighted average fair value per stock award granted 45.07 35.56 28.52 Unrecognized compensation expense 389 327 271 Weighted average period to be recognized (years) 2.0 2.0 1.9 Fair value of stock awards vested 354 445 209
Schedule of Nonvested Share Activity [Table Text Block]	The following activity occurred under the RSU and PRSU awards: (in millions, except shares, per share and contractual life amounts) Number of Units Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term (Years) Aggregate Intrinsic Value Nonvested, December 31, 2015 16,334,271 $ 29.95 1.2 $ 639 Granted 8,431,980 45.07 Vested (7,712,463 ) 28.33 Forfeited (1,338,397 ) 34.42 Nonvested, December 31, 2016 15,715,391 $ 37.93 1.1 $ 904
Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Stock Options, Activity [Table Text Block]	The following activity occurred under the Predecessor Plans: Shares Weighted Average Exercise Price Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term (Years) Outstanding and exercisable, December 31, 2015 1,824,354 $ 30.50 2.7 Exercised (982,904 ) 29.34 Expired (7,519 ) 44.21 Outstanding and exercisable, December 31, 2016 833,931 $ 31.75 2.3
Schedule of Deferred Compensation Arrangement with Individual, Excluding Share-based Payments and Postretirement Benefits by Title of Individual and Type of Deferred Compensation [Table Text Block]	Compensation expense reported within operating expenses related to our LTIP and payments to participants related to our LTIP were as follows: (in millions) December 31, December 31, December 31, Compensation expense $ — $ 27 $ 44 Payments 52 57 60

Income Taxes Income Taxes (Tabl

Income Taxes Income Taxes (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Income before Income Tax	Our sources of Income before income taxes were as follows: Year Ended December 31, (in millions) 2016 2015 2014 U.S. $ 2,286 $ 898 $ 347 Puerto Rico 41 80 66 Income before income taxes $ 2,327 $ 978 $ 413
Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit)	Income tax expense is summarized as follows: Year Ended December 31, (in millions) 2016 2015 2014 Current tax expense (benefit) Federal $ (66 ) $ (30 ) $ — State 29 2 6 Puerto Rico (10 ) 17 38 Total current tax expense (benefit) (47 ) (11 ) 44 Deferred tax expense (benefit) Federal 804 281 79 State 96 (37 ) 40 Puerto Rico 14 12 3 Total deferred tax expense 914 256 122 Total income tax expense $ 867 $ 245 $ 166
Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation	The reconciliation between the U.S. federal statutory income tax rate and our effective income tax rate is as follows: Year Ended December 31, 2016 2015 2014 Federal statutory income tax rate 35.0 % 35.0 % 35.0 % State taxes, net of federal benefit 4.0 (1.1 ) (8.8 ) Puerto Rico taxes, net of federal benefit — 3.3 5.0 Change in valuation allowance 1.0 (3.2 ) 18.8 Permanent differences 0.6 1.6 1.4 Federal tax credits, net of reserves (0.5 ) (9.5 ) (10.6 ) Equity-based compensation (2.2 ) — — Other, net (0.6 ) (1.0 ) (0.6 ) Effective income tax rate 37.3 % 25.1 % 40.2 %
Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities	Significant components of deferred income tax assets and liabilities, tax effected, are as follows: (in millions) December 31, December 31, Deferred tax assets Loss carryforwards $ 1,442 $ 1,997 Deferred rents 1,153 1,136 Reserves and accruals 1,058 928 Federal and state tax credits 284 349 Debt fair market value adjustment 83 97 Other 430 317 Deferred tax assets, gross 4,450 4,824 Valuation allowance (573 ) (583 ) Deferred tax assets, net 3,877 4,241 Deferred tax liabilities Spectrum licenses 6,952 6,174 Property and equipment 1,732 1,950 Other intangible assets 119 178 Other 12 — Total deferred tax liabilities 8,815 8,302 Net deferred tax liabilities $ 4,938 $ 4,061 Classified on the balance sheet as: Deferred tax liabilities $ 4,938 $ 4,061
Schedule of Unrecognized Tax Benefits Roll Forward	A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of unrecognized tax benefits were as follows: Year Ended December 31, (in millions) 2016 2015 2014 Unrecognized tax benefits, beginning of year $ 411 $ 388 $ 178 Gross decreases to tax positions in prior periods (5 ) (112 ) (52 ) Gross increases to current period tax positions 4 135 262 Unrecognized tax benefits, end of year $ 410 $ 411 $ 388

Earnings Per Share (Tables)

Earnings Per Share (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Schedule of Earnings Per Share	The computation of basic and diluted earnings per share was as follows: Year Ended December 31, (in millions, except shares and per share amounts) 2016 2015 2014 Net income $ 1,460 $ 733 $ 247 Less: Dividends on mandatory convertible preferred stock (55 ) (55 ) — Net income attributable to common stockholders - basic and diluted $ 1,405 $ 678 $ 247 Weighted average shares outstanding - basic 822,470,275 812,994,028 805,284,712 Effect of dilutive securities: Outstanding stock options and unvested stock awards 10,584,270 9,623,910 8,893,887 Mandatory convertible preferred stock — — 1,743,659 Weighted average shares outstanding - diluted 833,054,545 822,617,938 815,922,258 Earnings per share - basic $ 1.71 $ 0.83 $ 0.31 Earnings per share - diluted $ 1.69 $ 0.82 $ 0.30 Potentially dilutive securities: Outstanding stock options and unvested stock awards 3,528,683 4,842,370 1,426,331 Mandatory convertible preferred stock 32,237,266 32,237,266 —

Commitments and Contingencies C

Commitments and Contingencies Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Future Minimum Payments for Non-Cancelable Operating Leases and Purchase Commitments	Future minimum payments for non-cancelable operating leases and purchase commitments are summarized below: (in millions) Operating Leases Purchase Commitments Year Ending December 31, 2017 $ 2,417 $ 2,011 2018 2,118 977 2019 1,832 841 2020 1,511 704 2021 1,102 626 Thereafter 2,188 960 Total $ 11,168 $ 6,119

Additional Financial Informat37

Additional Financial Information (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Supplemental Financial Statement Elements [Abstract]
Schedule of Allowances and Unamortized Imputed Interest	The following table summarizes the changes in allowances and unamortized imputed discount related to our current accounts receivables and EIP receivables: (in millions) 2016 2015 2014 Allowances, beginning of year $ 264 $ 199 $ 169 Bad debt expense 477 547 444 Write-offs, net of recoveries (518 ) (482 ) (414 ) Allowances, end of year $ 223 $ 264 $ 199 Imputed discount, beginning of year $ 159 $ 271 $ 212 Additions 362 310 380 Interest income (248 ) (414 ) (355 ) Cancellations and other (47 ) (78 ) (92 ) Impacts from sales of EIP receivables (152 ) (55 ) — Transfer from long-term 100 125 126 Imputed discount, end of year $ 174 $ 159 $ 271 The following table summarizes the changes in unamortized imputed discount related to our long-term EIP receivables: (in millions) 2016 2015 2014 Imputed discount, beginning of year $ 26 $ 61 $ 64 Additions 134 111 141 Cancellations and other (15 ) (13 ) (18 ) Impacts from sales of EIP receivables (24 ) (8 ) — Transfer to current (100 ) (125 ) (126 ) Imputed discount, end of year $ 21 $ 26 $ 61
Schedule of Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities	Accounts payable and accrued liabilities are summarized as follows: (in millions) December 31, December 31, Accounts payable $ 5,163 $ 6,137 Payroll and related benefits 559 521 Property and other taxes, including payroll 525 494 Interest 423 371 Commissions 159 190 Network decommissioning 101 117 Toll and interconnect 85 68 Advertising 44 77 Other 93 109 Accounts payable and accrued liabilities $ 7,152 $ 8,084
Schedule of Related Party Transactions	The following table summarizes the impact of significant transactions with Deutsche Telekom or its affiliates included in operating expenses in the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income : Year Ended December 31, (in millions) 2016 2015 2014 Discount related to roaming expenses $ (15 ) $ (21 ) $ (61 ) Fees incurred for use of the T-Mobile brand 74 65 60 Expenses for telecommunications and IT services 25 23 24 International long distance agreement 60 — —

Guarantor Financial Informati38

Guarantor Financial Information (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Condensed Financial Information of Parent Company Only Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet Information	Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet Information December 31, 2016 (in millions) Parent Issuer Guarantor Subsidiaries Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries Consolidating and Eliminating Adjustments Consolidated Assets Current assets Cash and cash equivalents $ 358 $ 2,733 $ 2,342 $ 67 $ — $ 5,500 Accounts receivable, net — — 1,675 221 — 1,896 Equipment installment plan receivables, net — — 1,930 — — 1,930 Accounts receivable from affiliates — — 40 — — 40 Inventories — — 1,111 — — 1,111 Asset purchase deposit — — 2,203 — — 2,203 Other current assets — — 972 565 — 1,537 Total current assets 358 2,733 10,273 853 — 14,217 Property and equipment, net (1) — — 20,568 375 — 20,943 Goodwill — — 1,683 — — 1,683 Spectrum licenses — — 27,014 — — 27,014 Other intangible assets, net — — 376 — — 376 Investments in subsidiaries, net 17,682 35,095 — — (52,777 ) — Intercompany receivables 196 6,826 — — (7,022 ) — Equipment installment plan receivables due after one year, net — — 984 — — 984 Other assets — 7 600 262 (195 ) 674 Total assets $ 18,236 $ 44,661 $ 61,498 $ 1,490 $ (59,994 ) $ 65,891 Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity Current liabilities Accounts payable and accrued liabilities $ — $ 423 $ 6,474 $ 255 $ — $ 7,152 Payables to affiliates — 79 46 — — 125 Short-term debt — 20 334 — — 354 Deferred revenue — — 986 — — 986 Other current liabilities — — 258 147 — 405 Total current liabilities — 522 8,098 402 — 9,022 Long-term debt — 20,741 1,091 — — 21,832 Long-term debt to affiliates — 5,600 — — — 5,600 Tower obligations (1) — — 400 2,221 — 2,621 Deferred tax liabilities — — 5,133 — (195 ) 4,938 Deferred rent expense — — 2,616 — — 2,616 Negative carrying value of subsidiaries, net — — 568 — (568 ) — Intercompany payables — — 6,785 237 (7,022 ) — Other long-term liabilities — 116 906 4 — 1,026 Total long-term liabilities — 26,457 17,499 2,462 (7,785 ) 38,633 Total stockholders' equity (deficit) 18,236 17,682 35,901 (1,374 ) (52,209 ) 18,236 Total liabilities and stockholders' equity $ 18,236 $ 44,661 $ 61,498 $ 1,490 $ (59,994 ) $ 65,891 (1) Assets and liabilities for Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries are primarily included in VIEs related to the 2012 Tower Transaction. See Note 8 – Tower Obligations for further information. Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet Information December 31, 2015 (in millions) Parent Issuer Guarantor Subsidiaries Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries Consolidating and Eliminating Adjustments Consolidated Assets Current assets Cash and cash equivalents $ 378 $ 1,767 $ 2,364 $ 73 $ — $ 4,582 Short-term investments — 1,999 999 — — 2,998 Accounts receivable, net — — 1,574 214 — 1,788 Equipment installment plan receivables, net — — 2,378 — — 2,378 Accounts receivable from affiliates — — 36 — — 36 Inventories — — 1,295 — — 1,295 Other current assets — — 1,413 400 — 1,813 Total current assets 378 3,766 10,059 687 — 14,890 Property and equipment, net (1) — — 19,546 454 — 20,000 Goodwill — — 1,683 — — 1,683 Spectrum licenses — — 23,955 — — 23,955 Other intangible assets, net — — 594 — — 594 Investments in subsidiaries, net 16,184 32,280 — — (48,464 ) — Intercompany receivables — 6,130 — — (6,130 ) — Equipment installment plan receivables due after one year, net — — 847 — — 847 Other assets — 5 387 219 (167 ) 444 Total assets $ 16,562 $ 42,181 $ 57,071 $ 1,360 $ (54,761 ) $ 62,413 Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity Current liabilities Accounts payable and accrued liabilities $ — $ 368 $ 7,496 $ 220 $ — $ 8,084 Payables to affiliates — 70 65 — — 135 Short-term debt — 20 162 — — 182 Deferred revenue — — 717 — — 717 Other current liabilities — — 327 83 — 410 Total current liabilities — 458 8,767 303 — 9,528 Long-term debt — 19,797 664 — — 20,461 Long-term debt to affiliates — 5,600 — — — 5,600 Tower obligations (1) — — 411 2,247 — 2,658 Deferred tax liabilities — — 4,228 — (167 ) 4,061 Deferred rent expense — — 2,481 — — 2,481 Negative carrying value of subsidiaries, net — — 628 — (628 ) — Intercompany payables 5 — 5,959 166 (6,130 ) — Other long-term liabilities — 142 922 3 — 1,067 Total long-term liabilities 5 25,539 15,293 2,416 (6,925 ) 36,328 Total stockholders' equity (deficit) 16,557 16,184 33,011 (1,359 ) (47,836 ) 16,557 Total liabilities and stockholders' equity $ 16,562 $ 42,181 $ 57,071 $ 1,360 $ (54,761 ) $ 62,413 (1) Assets and liabilities for Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries are primarily included in VIEs related to the 2012 Tower Transaction. See Note 8 – Tower Obligations for further information.
Schedule of Condensed Consolidating Statement of Comprehensive Income Information	Condensed Consolidating Statement of Comprehensive Income Information Year Ended December 31, 2016 (in millions) Parent Issuer Guarantor Subsidiaries Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries Consolidating and Eliminating Adjustments Consolidated Revenues Service revenues $ — $ — $ 26,613 $ 2,023 $ (792 ) $ 27,844 Equipment revenues — — 9,145 — (418 ) 8,727 Other revenues — 3 491 195 (18 ) 671 Total revenues — 3 36,249 2,218 (1,228 ) 37,242 Operating expenses Cost of services, exclusive of depreciation and amortization shown separately below — — 5,707 24 — 5,731 Cost of equipment sales — — 10,209 1,027 (417 ) 10,819 Selling, general and administrative — — 11,321 868 (811 ) 11,378 Depreciation and amortization — — 6,165 78 — 6,243 Cost of MetroPCS business combination — — 104 — — 104 Gains on disposal of spectrum licenses — — (835 ) — — (835 ) Total operating expenses — — 32,671 1,997 (1,228 ) 33,440 Operating income — 3 3,578 221 — 3,802 Other income (expense) Interest expense — (1,147 ) (82 ) (189 ) — (1,418 ) Interest expense to affiliates — (312 ) — — — (312 ) Interest income — 31 230 — — 261 Other income (expense), net — 2 (8 ) — — (6 ) Total other income (expense), net — (1,426 ) 140 (189 ) — (1,475 ) Income (loss) before income taxes — (1,423 ) 3,718 32 — 2,327 Income tax expense — — (857 ) (10 ) — (867 ) Earnings (loss) of subsidiaries 1,460 2,883 (17 ) — (4,326 ) — Net income 1,460 1,460 2,844 22 (4,326 ) 1,460 Dividends on preferred stock (55 ) — — — — (55 ) Net income attributable to common stockholders $ 1,405 $ 1,460 $ 2,844 $ 22 $ (4,326 ) $ 1,405 Net Income $ 1,460 $ 1,460 $ 2,844 $ 22 $ (4,326 ) $ 1,460 Other comprehensive income, net of tax Other comprehensive income, net of tax 2 2 2 2 (6 ) 2 Total comprehensive income $ 1,462 $ 1,462 $ 2,846 $ 24 $ (4,332 ) $ 1,462 Condensed Consolidating Statement of Comprehensive Income Information Year Ended December 31, 2015 (in millions) Parent Issuer Guarantor Subsidiaries Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries Consolidating and Eliminating Adjustments Consolidated Revenues Service revenues $ — $ — $ 23,748 $ 1,669 $ (596 ) $ 24,821 Equipment revenues — — 7,148 — (430 ) 6,718 Other revenues — 1 356 171 (14 ) 514 Total revenues — 1 31,252 1,840 (1,040 ) 32,053 Operating expenses Cost of services, exclusive of depreciation and amortization shown separately below — — 5,530 24 — 5,554 Cost of equipment sales — — 9,055 720 (431 ) 9,344 Selling, general and administrative — — 10,065 733 (609 ) 10,189 Depreciation and amortization — — 4,605 83 — 4,688 Cost of MetroPCS business combination — — 376 — — 376 Gains on disposal of spectrum licenses — — (163 ) — — (163 ) Total operating expenses — — 29,468 1,560 (1,040 ) 29,988 Operating income — 1 1,784 280 — 2,065 Other income (expense) Interest expense — (847 ) (50 ) (188 ) — (1,085 ) Interest expense to affiliates — (411 ) — — — (411 ) Interest income — 2 418 — — 420 Other expense, net — (10 ) — (1 ) — (11 ) Total other income (expense), net — (1,266 ) 368 (189 ) — (1,087 ) Income (loss) before income taxes — (1,265 ) 2,152 91 — 978 Income tax expense — — (214 ) (31 ) — (245 ) Earnings (loss) of subsidiaries 733 1,998 (48 ) — (2,683 ) — Net income 733 733 1,890 60 (2,683 ) 733 Dividends on preferred stock (55 ) — — — — (55 ) Net income attributable to common stockholders $ 678 $ 733 $ 1,890 $ 60 $ (2,683 ) $ 678 Net income $ 733 $ 733 $ 1,890 $ 60 $ (2,683 ) $ 733 Other comprehensive loss, net of tax Other comprehensive loss, net of tax (2 ) (2 ) (2 ) — 4 (2 ) Total comprehensive income $ 731 $ 731 $ 1,888 $ 60 $ (2,679 ) $ 731 Condensed Consolidating Statement of Comprehensive Income Information Year Ended December 31, 2014 (in millions) Parent Issuer Guarantor Subsidiaries Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries Consolidating and Eliminating Adjustments Consolidated Revenues Service revenues $ — $ — $ 21,483 $ 1,302 $ (410 ) $ 22,375 Equipment revenues — — 7,319 — (530 ) 6,789 Other revenues — — 270 140 (10 ) 400 Total revenues — — 29,072 1,442 (950 ) 29,564 Operating expenses Cost of services, exclusive of depreciation and amortization shown separately below — — 5,767 21 — 5,788 Cost of equipment sales — — 9,491 702 (572 ) 9,621 Selling, general and administrative — — 8,723 518 (378 ) 8,863 Depreciation and amortization — — 4,330 82 — 4,412 Cost of MetroPCS business combination — — 299 — — 299 Gains on disposal of spectrum licenses — — (840 ) — — (840 ) Other, net — — 5 — — 5 Total operating expenses — — 27,775 1,323 (950 ) 28,148 Operating income — — 1,297 119 — 1,416 Other income (expense) Interest expense — (838 ) (55 ) (180 ) — (1,073 ) Interest expense to affiliates — (278 ) — — — (278 ) Interest income — — 359 — — 359 Other income (expense), net — (15 ) 4 — — (11 ) Total other income (expense), net — (1,131 ) 308 (180 ) — (1,003 ) Income (loss) before income taxes — (1,131 ) 1,605 (61 ) — 413 Income tax (expense) benefit — — (189 ) 23 — (166 ) Earnings (loss) of subsidiaries 247 1,278 (54 ) — (1,471 ) — Net income (loss) $ 247 $ 147 $ 1,362 $ (38 ) $ (1,471 ) $ 247 Other comprehensive loss, net of tax Other comprehensive loss, net of tax (2 ) (2 ) (2 ) — 4 (2 ) Total comprehensive income (loss) $ 245 $ 145 $ 1,360 $ (38 ) $ (1,467 ) $ 245
Schedule of Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows Information	Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows Information Year Ended December 31, 2016 (in millions) Parent Issuer Guarantor Subsidiaries Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries Consolidating and Eliminating Adjustments Consolidated Operating activities Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities $ 6 $ (2,031 ) $ 8,166 $ 104 $ (110 ) $ 6,135 Investing activities Purchases of property and equipment — — (4,702 ) — — (4,702 ) Purchases of spectrum licenses and other intangible assets, including deposits — — (3,968 ) — — (3,968 ) Sales of short-term investments — 2,000 998 — — 2,998 Other, net — — (8 ) — — (8 ) Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities — 2,000 (7,680 ) — — (5,680 ) Financing activities Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt — 997 — — — 997 Repayments of capital lease obligations — — (205 ) — — (205 ) Repayments of short-term debt for purchases of inventory, property and equipment, net — — (150 ) — — (150 ) Repayments of long-term debt — — (20 ) — — (20 ) Proceeds from exercise of stock options 29 — — — — 29 Tax withholdings on share-based awards — — (121 ) — — (121 ) Intercompany dividend paid — — — (110 ) 110 — Dividends on preferred stock (55 ) — — — — (55 ) Other, net — — (12 ) — — (12 ) Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities (26 ) 997 (508 ) (110 ) 110 463 Change in cash and cash equivalents (20 ) 966 (22 ) (6 ) — 918 Cash and cash equivalents Beginning of period 378 1,767 2,364 73 — 4,582 End of period $ 358 $ 2,733 $ 2,342 $ 67 $ — $ 5,500 Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows Information Year Ended December 31, 2015 (in millions) Parent Issuer Guarantor Subsidiaries Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries Consolidating and Eliminating Adjustments Consolidated Operating activities Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities $ (1 ) $ (4,504 ) $ 9,940 $ 154 $ (175 ) $ 5,414 Investing activities Purchases of property and equipment — — (4,724 ) — — (4,724 ) Purchases of spectrum licenses and other intangible assets, including deposits — — (1,935 ) — — (1,935 ) Purchases of short-term investments — (1,999 ) (998 ) — — (2,997 ) Investment in subsidiaries (1,905 ) — — — 1,905 — Other, net — — 96 — — 96 Net cash used in investing activities (1,905 ) (1,999 ) (7,561 ) — 1,905 (9,560 ) Financing activities Proceeds from capital contribution — 1,905 — — (1,905 ) — Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt — 3,979 — — — 3,979 Proceeds from tower obligations — 140 — — — 140 Repayments of capital lease obligations — — (57 ) — — (57 ) Repayments of short-term debt for purchases of inventory, property and equipment, net — — (564 ) — — (564 ) Proceeds from exercise of stock options 47 — — — — 47 Intercompany dividend paid — — — (175 ) 175 — Tax withholdings on share-based awards — — (156 ) — — (156 ) Dividends on preferred stock (41 ) — (14 ) — — (55 ) Other, net — — 79 — — 79 Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities 6 6,024 (712 ) (175 ) (1,730 ) 3,413 Change in cash and cash equivalents (1,900 ) (479 ) 1,667 (21 ) — (733 ) Cash and cash equivalents Beginning of period 2,278 2,246 697 94 — 5,315 End of period $ 378 $ 1,767 $ 2,364 $ 73 $ — $ 4,582 Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows Information Year Ended December 31, 2014 (in millions) Parent Issuer Guarantor Subsidiaries Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries Consolidating and Eliminating Adjustments Consolidated Operating activities Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities $ 9 $ (5,145 ) $ 9,364 $ 18 $ (100 ) $ 4,146 Investing activities Purchases of property and equipment — — (4,317 ) — — (4,317 ) Purchases of spectrum licenses and other intangible assets, including deposits — — (2,900 ) — — (2,900 ) Investment in subsidiaries (1,700 ) — — — 1,700 — Other, net — — (29 ) — — (29 ) Net cash used in investing activities (1,700 ) — (7,246 ) — 1,700 (7,246 ) Financing activities Proceeds from capital contribution — 1,700 — — (1,700 ) — Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt — 2,993 — — — 2,993 Repayments of capital lease obligations — — (19 ) — — (19 ) Repayments of short-term debt for purchases of inventory, property and equipment, net — — (418 ) — — (418 ) Repayments of long-term debt — — (1,000 ) — — (1,000 ) Proceeds from exercise of stock options 27 — — — — 27 Proceeds from issuance of preferred stock 982 — — — — 982 Intercompany dividend paid — — — (100 ) 100 — Tax withholdings on share-based awards — — (73 ) — — (73 ) Other, net — — 32 — — 32 Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities 1,009 4,693 (1,478 ) (100 ) (1,600 ) 2,524 Change in cash and cash equivalents (682 ) (452 ) 640 (82 ) — (576 ) Cash and cash equivalents Beginning of period 2,960 2,698 57 176 — 5,891 End of period $ 2,278 $ 2,246 $ 697 $ 94 $ — $ 5,315

Quarterly Financial Informati39

Quarterly Financial Information (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Quarterly Financial Information [Abstract]
Quarterly Financial Information [Table Text Block]	(in millions, except shares and per share amounts) First Quarter Second Quarter Third Quarter Fourth Quarter Full Year 2016 Total revenues $ 8,599 $ 9,222 $ 9,246 $ 10,175 $ 37,242 Operating income 1,103 768 989 942 3,802 Net income 479 225 366 390 1,460 Dividends on preferred stock (14 ) (14 ) (13 ) (14 ) (55 ) Net income attributable to common stockholders 465 211 353 376 1,405 Earnings per share Basic $ 0.57 $ 0.26 $ 0.43 $ 0.46 $ 1.71 Diluted $ 0.56 $ 0.25 $ 0.42 $ 0.45 $ 1.69 Weighted average shares outstanding Basic 819,431,761 822,434,490 822,998,697 824,982,734 822,470,275 Diluted 859,382,827 829,752,956 832,257,819 867,262,400 833,054,545 Net income includes: Cost of MetroPCS business combination $ 36 $ 59 $ 15 $ (6 ) $ 104 Gains on disposal of spectrum licenses (636 ) — (199 ) — (835 ) 2015 Total revenues $ 7,778 $ 8,179 $ 7,849 $ 8,247 $ 32,053 Operating income 117 597 513 838 2,065 Net income (loss) (63 ) 361 138 297 733 Dividends on preferred stock (14 ) (14 ) (13 ) (14 ) (55 ) Net income (loss) attributable to common stockholders (77 ) 347 125 283 678 Earnings (loss) per share Basic $ (0.09 ) $ 0.43 $ 0.15 $ 0.35 $ 0.83 Diluted $ (0.09 ) $ 0.42 $ 0.15 $ 0.34 $ 0.82 Weighted average shares outstanding Basic 808,605,526 811,605,031 815,069,272 816,585,782 812,994,028 Diluted 808,605,526 821,122,537 822,017,220 824,716,119 822,617,938 Net income (loss) includes: Cost of MetroPCS business combination $ 128 $ 34 $ 193 $ 21 $ 376 Gains on disposal of spectrum licenses — (23 ) (1 ) (139 ) (163 )

Summary of Significant Accoun40

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Maximum Number of Shares Received by Clients Annually	100
Federal Universal Service Fund and other fees	$ 409	$ 334	$ 349
Advertising Expense	1,700	$ 1,600	$ 1,400
Cumulative Effect on Retained Earnings, Net of Tax	$ 38

Equipment Installment Plan Re41

Equipment Installment Plan Receivables (EIP Receivables) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Receivables [Abstract]
Equipment installment plan, maximum payment term	24 months
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Equipment installment plan receivables, gross	$ 3,230	$ 3,558
Unamortized imputed discount	(195)	(185)
Equipment installment plan receivables, net of unamortized imputed discount	3,035	3,373
Allowances for credit losses	(121)	(148)
Equipment installment plan receivables, net	2,914	3,225
Equipment Installment Plan Receivables, Net [Member]
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Equipment installment plan receivables, net	1,930	2,378
Equipment Installment Plan Receivables Due After One Year, Net [Member]
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Equipment installment plan receivables, net	$ 984	$ 847

Equipment Installment Plan Re42

Equipment Installment Plan Receivables (Gross Receivables by Credit Category) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Equipment installment plan receivables, gross	$ 3,230	$ 3,558
Unbilled Revenues [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Equipment installment plan receivables	3,029	3,291
Billed Revenues [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Equipment installment plan receivables	128	168
Equipment installment plan receivables, past due	73	99
Prime [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Equipment installment plan receivables, gross	1,419	1,707
Prime [Member] | Unbilled Revenues [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Equipment installment plan receivables	1,343	1,593
Prime [Member] | Billed Revenues [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Equipment installment plan receivables	51	77
Equipment installment plan receivables, past due	25	37
Subprime [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Equipment installment plan receivables, gross	1,811	1,851
Subprime [Member] | Unbilled Revenues [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Equipment installment plan receivables	1,686	1,698
Subprime [Member] | Billed Revenues [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Equipment installment plan receivables	77	91
Equipment installment plan receivables, past due	$ 48	$ 62

Equipment Installment Plan Re43

Equipment Installment Plan Receivables (Unamortized Imputed Discount and Allowance for Credit Losses) (Details) - Equipment Installment Plan Receivable [Member] - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses [Roll Forward]
Imputed discount and allowance for credit losses, beginning of period	$ 333	$ 448
Bad debt expense	250	365
Write-offs, net of recoveries	(277)	(333)
Changes in imputed discount on short-term and long-term EIP receivables	186	(84)
Impacts from sales of EIP receivables	(176)	(63)
Imputed discount and allowance for credit losses, end of period	$ 316	$ 333
Weighted average effective imputed interest rate	9.00%	8.80%

Sales of Certain Receivables Sa

Sales of Certain Receivables Sales of Service Receivables (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2016	Nov. 30, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Other current assets	$ 1,537		$ 1,813
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	7,152		8,084
Other current liabilities	405		410
Factoring Arrangement [Member] | Variable Interest Entity, Not Primary Beneficiary [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Revolving receivables facility, maximum borrowing capacity		$ 950		$ 750
Revolving receivables facility, outstanding borrowings	907		750
Other current assets	207		206
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	17		0
Other current liabilities	$ 129		$ 73

Sales of Certain Receivables 45

Sales of Certain Receivables Sales of EIP Receivables (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2016	Jun. 30, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Other current assets	$ 1,537		$ 1,813
Other assets	674		444
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	7,152		8,084
EIP Securitization Arrangement [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Revolving receivables facility, maximum borrowing capacity		$ 1,300	800
Revolving receivables facility, outstanding borrowings	1,200		800
Other current assets	371		164
Other assets	83		44
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	0		14
Other long-term liabilities	$ 4		$ 3

Sales of Certain Receivables 46

Sales of Certain Receivables Sales of Receivables (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Qualitative and Quantitative Information, Transferor's Continuing Involvement [Line Items]
Other current assets	$ 1,537	$ 1,813
Other long-term assets	674	444
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	7,152	8,084
Other current liabilities	405	410
Other long-term liabilities	1,026	1,067
Losses from sales of receivables	228	204	$ 179
Factoring and EIP Securitization Arrangement [Member] | Transferor's Continuing Involvement in Transferred Financial Assets, Transfer Description [Member]
Qualitative and Quantitative Information, Transferor's Continuing Involvement [Line Items]
Maximum exposure to loss, Factoring VIE	1,100
Factoring and EIP Securitization Arrangement [Member]
Qualitative and Quantitative Information, Transferor's Continuing Involvement [Line Items]
Trading Securities	659	389
Derecognized net service receivables and EIP receivables	2,502	1,850
Other current assets	578	370
Other long-term assets	83	44
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	17	14
Other current liabilities	129	73
Other long-term liabilities	4	3
Net cash proceeds since inception	2,030	1,494
Net cash proceeds during the period	536	884
Net cash proceeds funded by reinvested collections	1,494	610
Losses from sales of receivables	228	204	$ 179
Factoring and EIP Securitization Arrangement [Member] | Other current assets - of which, deferred purchase price
Qualitative and Quantitative Information, Transferor's Continuing Involvement [Line Items]
Trading Securities	576	345
Factoring and EIP Securitization Arrangement [Member] | Other Assets - of which, deferred purchase price
Qualitative and Quantitative Information, Transferor's Continuing Involvement [Line Items]
Trading Securities	$ 83	$ 44

Property and Equipment Proper47

Property and Equipment Property and Equipment (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Accumulated depreciation and amortization	$ (24,779)	$ (23,192)
Property and equipment, net	20,943	20,000
Capital leased assets, gross	1,600	839
Capital leases assets, accumulated amortization	300	117
Capitalized interest	142	230	$ 81
Depreciation expense	6,000	4,400	4,100
Additional depreciation expense	101	85	$ 242
Buildings and equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment	1,657	1,900
Wireless communications systems
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment	29,272	27,063
Leasehold improvements
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment	1,068	1,003
Capitalized software
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment	8,488	8,524
Leased wireless devices
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment	2,624	2,236
Construction in progress
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment	$ 2,613	$ 2,466
Maximum [Member] | Buildings and equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Useful Life	40 years
Maximum [Member] | Wireless communications systems
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Useful Life	20 years
Maximum [Member] | Leasehold improvements
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Useful Life	12 years
Maximum [Member] | Capitalized software
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Useful Life	7 years
Maximum [Member] | Leased wireless devices
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Useful Life	18 months

Property and Equipment Leased W

Property and Equipment Leased Wireless Devices (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Leases, Operating [Abstract]
Depreciation expense for leased devices	$ 1,500	$ 312
Property Subject to or Available for Operating Lease, Net [Abstract]
Leased wireless devices, gross	2,624	2,236
Accumulated depreciation	(1,193)	(263)
Leased wireless devices, net	1,431	$ 1,973
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable [Abstract]
2,017	710
2,018	92
Total	$ 802

Property and Equipment Asset Re

Property and Equipment Asset Retirement Obligation (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Asset retirement obligations, beginning of year	$ 483	$ 390
Liabilities incurred	50	19
Liabilities settled	(67)	(130)
Accretion expense	24	17
Changes in estimated cash flows	49	187
Asset retirement obligations, end of year	539	483
Asset retirement costs capitalized, net	258	241
Other current liabilities
Asset retirement obligations, beginning of year	41
Asset retirement obligations, end of year	16	41
Other long-term liabilities [Member]
Asset retirement obligations, beginning of year	442
Asset retirement obligations, end of year	$ 523	$ 442

Goodwill, Spectrum Licenses a50

Goodwill, Spectrum Licenses and Other Intangible Assets Goodwill (Details) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Goodwill, net change	$ 0	$ 0

Goodwill, Spectrum Licenses a51

Goodwill, Spectrum Licenses and Other Intangible Assets Spectrum Licenses (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Roll Forward]
Gains on disposal of spectrum licenses	$ 0	$ 199	$ 0	$ 636	$ 139	$ 1	$ 23	$ 0	$ 835	$ 163	$ 840
Payments to acquire intangible assets									3,968	1,935	2,900
Licensing Agreements [Member]
Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Roll Forward]
Spectrum licenses, beginning of year				$ 23,955				$ 21,955	23,955	21,955
Spectrum license acquisitions									3,334	2,615
Spectrum licenses transferred to held for sale									(324)	(727)
Costs to clear spectrum									49	112
Spectrum licenses, end of year	27,014				$ 23,955				27,014	23,955	$ 21,955
Fair value of intangible assets acquired									3,334	2,615
Licensing Agreements [Member] | AT&T [Member]
Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Roll Forward]
Spectrum license acquisitions									1,200
Fair value of intangible assets acquired									1,200
Gains on disposal of spectrum licenses									636
Licensing Agreements [Member] | Spectrum License Transactions - Closed [Member]
Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Roll Forward]
Gains on disposal of spectrum licenses									199	24
Payments to acquire intangible assets	$ 420								1,300	459
Number of customers covered by purchase of intangible assets	11
Licensing Agreements [Member] | FCC Spectrum Auction [Member]
Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Roll Forward]
Spectrum license acquisitions										1,800
Fair value of intangible assets acquired										$ 1,800
Number of customers covered by purchase of intangible assets										97
Licensing Agreements [Member] | Verizon [Member]
Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Roll Forward]
Spectrum license acquisitions										$ 311
Fair value of intangible assets acquired										311
Gains on disposal of spectrum licenses										139
Licensing Agreements [Member] | Scenario, Actual [Member] | Spectrum License Transactions - Closed [Member]
Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Roll Forward]
Spectrum license acquisitions									1,700	530
Fair value of intangible assets acquired									1,700	530
Licensing Agreements [Member] | Scenario, Actual [Member] | Spectrum License Transactions - Pending Close [Member]
Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Roll Forward]
Spectrum licenses transferred to held for sale									$ (86)	$ (554)

Goodwill, Spectrum Licenses a52

Goodwill, Spectrum Licenses and Other Intangible Assets Other Intangibles Assets (Details) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Goodwill impairment	$ 0	$ 0
Indefinite-lived intangible asset impairment	0	0
Other intangible assets, gross	1,457,000,000	1,455,000,000
Accumulated amortization	(1,081,000,000)	(861,000,000)
Other intangible assets, net	376,000,000	594,000,000
Amortization expense for intangible assets	220,000,000	276,000,000	$ 333,000,000
Future Amortization Expense
2,017	163,000,000
2,018	104,000,000
2,019	52,000,000
2,020	34,000,000
2,021	14,000,000
Thereafter	9,000,000
Customer lists
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Other intangible assets, gross	1,104,000,000	1,104,000,000
Accumulated amortization	(894,000,000)	(719,000,000)
Other intangible assets, net	$ 210,000,000	385,000,000
Customer lists | Maximum [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Intangible assets, useful life	6 years
Trademarks and patents
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Other intangible assets, gross	$ 303,000,000	300,000,000
Accumulated amortization	(156,000,000)	(115,000,000)
Other intangible assets, net	$ 147,000,000	185,000,000
Trademarks and patents | Maximum [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Intangible assets, useful life	12 years
Other
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Other intangible assets, gross	$ 50,000,000	51,000,000
Accumulated amortization	(31,000,000)	(27,000,000)
Other intangible assets, net	$ 19,000,000	$ 24,000,000
Other | Maximum [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Intangible assets, useful life	28 years

Fair Value Measurements and D53

Fair Value Measurements and Derivative Instruments Narrative (Details)	Dec. 31, 2016	Apr. 30, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Derivative instruments [Member] | Deutsche Telekom [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Interest rate, stated percentage	9.332%	9.332%
Derivative instruments [Member] | Deutsche Telekom [Member] | Scenario, Previously Reported [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Interest rate, stated percentage		5.95%	5.95%
Embedded Derivative Instruments [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Number of embedded derivative instruments	0		1

Fair Value Measurements and D54

Fair Value Measurements and Derivative Instruments Fair Value of Financial Instruments by Level (Details) - Embedded Derivative Instruments [Member] - Other long-term liabilities - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Embedded derivative instruments, liabilities	$ 118	$ 143
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Embedded derivative instruments, liabilities	0	0
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Embedded derivative instruments, liabilities	0	0
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Embedded derivative instruments, liabilities	$ 118	$ 143

Fair Value Measurements and D55

Fair Value Measurements and Derivative Instruments Gains (Losses) of Derivative Instruments (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Derivative [Line Items]
Embedded Derivative	$ 25	$ (148)	$ 18
Embedded Derivative Instruments [Member] | Interest Expense to Affiliates [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Embedded Derivative	$ 25	$ (148)	$ 18

Fair Value Measurements and D56

Fair Value Measurements and Derivative Instruments Fair Value of Short-term Investments and Long-term Debt (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Carrying Amount [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Short-term investments	$ 0	$ 2,998
Long-term debt	18,600	17,600
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Fair Value [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Short-term investments	0	2,998
Long-term debt	19,584	18,098
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Carrying Amount [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Long-term debt	1,980	2,000
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Fair Value [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Long-term debt	2,005	1,990
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Carrying Amount [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Trading Securities	659	389
Guarantor liabilities	135	163
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Fair Value [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Trading Securities	659	389
Guarantor liabilities	135	163
Deutsche Telekom [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Carrying Amount [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Long-term debt	5,600	5,600
Deutsche Telekom [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Fair Value [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Long-term debt	$ 5,955	$ 6,072

Fair Value Measurements and D57

Fair Value Measurements and Derivative Instruments Guarantee Liabilities (Details) $ in Billions	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Maximum potential for losses under guarantor liabilities	$ 2.1

Debt Long-term Debt (Details)

Debt Long-term Debt (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2016	Apr. 30, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Capital Lease Obligations	$ 1,425		$ 826
Debt Instrument, Unamortized Premium	212		250
Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount	(8)		(10)
Debt Issuance Costs, Line of Credit Arrangements, Net	(23)		(23)
Debt and Capital Lease Obligations	27,786		26,243
Loans Payable, Current	20		20
Capital Lease Obligations, Current	334		162
Long-term Debt and Long-term Debt to Affiliates	27,432		26,061
Long-term debt	21,832		20,461
Long-term debt to affiliates	$ 5,600		5,600
5.250% Senior Notes due 2018 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate, stated percentage	5.25%
Long-term Debt	$ 500		500
6.464% Senior Notes due 2019 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate, stated percentage	6.464%
Long-term Debt	$ 1,250		1,250
6.542% Senior Notes due 2020 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate, stated percentage	6.542%
Long-term Debt	$ 1,250		1,250
6.625% Senior Notes due 2020 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate, stated percentage	6.625%
Long-term Debt	$ 1,000		1,000
6.250% Senior Notes due 2021 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate, stated percentage	6.25%
Long-term Debt	$ 1,750		1,750
6.633% Senior Notes due 2021 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate, stated percentage	6.633%
Long-term Debt	$ 1,250		1,250
6.125% Senior Notes due 2022 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate, stated percentage	6.125%
Long-term Debt	$ 1,000		1,000
6.731% Senior Notes due 2022 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate, stated percentage	6.731%
Long-term Debt	$ 1,250		1,250
6.000% Senior Notes due 2023 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate, stated percentage	6.00%
Long-term Debt	$ 1,300		1,300
6.625% Senior Notes due 2023 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate, stated percentage	6.625%
Long-term Debt	$ 1,750		1,750
6.836% Senior Notes due 2023 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate, stated percentage	6.836%
Long-term Debt	$ 600		600
6.000% Senior Notes due 2024 [$1.0B] [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate, stated percentage	6.00%
Long-term Debt	$ 1,000		0
Debt instrument, face amount	$ 1,000
6.500% Senior Notes due 2024 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate, stated percentage	6.50%
Long-term Debt	$ 1,000		1,000
6.375% Senior Notes due 2025 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate, stated percentage	6.375%
Long-term Debt	$ 1,700		1,700
6.500% Senior Notes due 2026 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate, stated percentage	6.50%
Long-term Debt	$ 2,000		2,000
Deutsche Telekom [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term debt to affiliates	$ 5,600		5,600
Deutsche Telekom [Member] | 6.288% Senior Reset Notes due 2019 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate, stated percentage	6.288%
Due to Affiliate	$ 1,250		1,250
Deutsche Telekom [Member] | 6.366% Senior Reset Notes due 2020 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate, stated percentage	6.366%
Due to Affiliate	$ 1,250		1,250
Deutsche Telekom [Member] | 8.097% Senior Reset Notes due 2021 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate, stated percentage	8.097%
Due to Affiliate	$ 1,250		1,250
Deutsche Telekom [Member] | 8.195% Senior Reset Notes due 2022 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate, stated percentage	8.195%
Due to Affiliate	$ 1,250		1,250
Deutsche Telekom [Member] | 9.332% Senior Reset Notes due 2023 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate, stated percentage	9.332%	9.332%
Debt instrument, face amount	$ 600
Due to Affiliate			600
Secured Debt [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Secured debt	$ 1,980		$ 2,000
Long-term debt, percentage bearing variable interest, percentage rate	2.75%
Secured Debt [Member] | Deutsche Telekom [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt instrument, face amount	$ 660

Debt Narrative (Details)

Debt Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	May 05, 2017	Jan. 31, 2017	Jan. 25, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Apr. 30, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Secured Debt [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term debt, percentage bearing variable interest, percentage rate				2.75%
Secured debt				$ 1,980		$ 2,000
Deutsche Telekom [Member] | Secured Debt [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt instrument, face amount				660
Deutsche Telekom [Member] | Secured Debt [Member] | Subsequent Event [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt instrument, increase in maximum debt capacity		$ 2,000
Debt instrument, additional debt capacity		$ 2,000
5.300% Senior Notes due 2021 [Member] | Scenario, Forecast [Member] | Deutsche Telekom [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt instrument, face amount	$ 2,000
Interest rate, stated percentage	5.30%
6.000% Senior Notes due 2024 [$1.0B] [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt instrument, face amount				$ 1,000
Interest rate, stated percentage				6.00%
6.000% Senior Notes due 2024 [$1.35B] [Member] | Scenario, Forecast [Member] | Deutsche Telekom [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt instrument, face amount	$ 1,350
Interest rate, stated percentage	6.00%
6.000% Senior Notes due 2024 [$1.35B] [Member] | Scenario, Forecast [Member] | Deutsche Telekom [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Issuance price percentage of face value	103.316%
6.000% Senior Notes due 2024 [$650M] [Member] | Scenario, Forecast [Member] | Deutsche Telekom [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt instrument, face amount	$ 650
Interest rate, stated percentage	6.00%
6.000% Senior Notes due 2024 [$650M] [Member] | Scenario, Forecast [Member] | Deutsche Telekom [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Issuance price percentage of face value	104.047%
9.332% Senior Reset Notes due 2023 [Member] | Deutsche Telekom [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt instrument, face amount				$ 600
Interest rate, stated percentage				9.332%	9.332%
9.332% Senior Reset Notes due 2023 [Member] | Scenario, Previously Reported [Member] | Deutsche Telekom [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate, stated percentage					5.95%	5.95%
Secured Term Loan [$4.0B] [Domain] | Deutsche Telekom [Member] | Subsequent Event [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Secured debt			$ 4,000
Refinanced Secured Term Loans [Member] | Subsequent Event [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Secured debt			$ 1,980
2.00% Margin Plus LIBOR Secured Term Loan due 2022 [Member] | Deutsche Telekom [Member] | Subsequent Event [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term debt, percentage bearing variable interest, percentage rate		2.00%
Secured debt		$ 2,000
2.25% Margin Plus LIBOR Secured Term Loan due 2024 [Member] | Deutsche Telekom [Member] | Subsequent Event [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term debt, percentage bearing variable interest, percentage rate		2.25%
Secured debt		$ 2,000

Debt Capital Leases (Details)

Debt Capital Leases (Details) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Next Rolling Twelve Months	$ 390
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Rolling Year Two	354
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Rolling Year Three	315
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Rolling Year Four	200
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Rolling Year Five	150
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Rolling after Year Five	214
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due	1,623
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Interest Included in Payments	$ 198

Debt Financing Arrangements (De

Debt Financing Arrangements (Details) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Short-term Debt [Line Items]
Repayments of short-term debt for purchases of inventory, property and equipment, net	$ 150,000,000	$ 564,000,000	$ 418,000,000
Handset Financing Arrangement [Member]
Short-term Debt [Line Items]
Borrowing capacity	108,000,000
Repayments of short-term debt for purchases of inventory, property and equipment, net	100,000,000	100,000,000
Short-term debt, outstanding	0	0
Vendor Financing Arrangement [Member]
Short-term Debt [Line Items]
Short-term debt, outstanding	$ 0	$ 0

Debt Lines and Letters of Credi

Debt Lines and Letters of Credit (Details) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Revolving Credit Facility [Line Items]
Letters of credit, amount outstanding	$ 74,000,000	$ 90,000,000
JP Morgan Chase [Member]
Revolving Credit Facility [Line Items]
Letters of credit, amount outstanding	20,000,000	36,000,000
Deutsche Bank [Member]
Revolving Credit Facility [Line Items]
Letters of credit, amount outstanding	54,000,000	$ 54,000,000
Revolving Credit Facility [$0.5B] [Member] | Deutsche Telekom [Member]
Revolving Credit Facility [Line Items]
Line of Credit Facility, Increase (Decrease), Net	500,000,000
Line of Credit Facility, Increase (Decrease), Net	500,000,000
Line of credit facility, amount outstanding	0
Revolving Credit Facility [$2.5B] [Member] | Deutsche Telekom [Member]
Revolving Credit Facility [Line Items]
Revolving credit facility, current borrowing capacity	2,500,000,000
Line of credit facility, amount outstanding	0
Unsecured Revolving Credit Facility [Member] | Revolving Credit Facility [$2.5B] [Member] | Deutsche Telekom [Member]
Revolving Credit Facility [Line Items]
Revolving credit facility, current borrowing capacity	1,000,000,000
Secured Revolving Credit Facility [Member] | Revolving Credit Facility [$2.5B] [Member] | Deutsche Telekom [Member]
Revolving Credit Facility [Line Items]
Revolving credit facility, current borrowing capacity	$ 1,500,000,000
Minimum [Member] | Unsecured Revolving Credit Facility [Member] | Revolving Credit Facility [$2.5B] [Member] | Deutsche Telekom [Member]
Revolving Credit Facility [Line Items]
Applicable margin, percentage	2.00%
Minimum [Member] | Secured Revolving Credit Facility [Member] | Revolving Credit Facility [$2.5B] [Member] | Deutsche Telekom [Member]
Revolving Credit Facility [Line Items]
Applicable margin, percentage	1.00%
Maximum [Member] | Unsecured Revolving Credit Facility [Member] | Revolving Credit Facility [$2.5B] [Member] | Deutsche Telekom [Member]
Revolving Credit Facility [Line Items]
Applicable margin, percentage	3.25%
Maximum [Member] | Secured Revolving Credit Facility [Member] | Revolving Credit Facility [$2.5B] [Member] | Deutsche Telekom [Member]
Revolving Credit Facility [Line Items]
Applicable margin, percentage	1.75%
Secured Debt [Member]
Revolving Credit Facility [Line Items]
Applicable margin, percentage	2.75%
Secured Debt [Member] | Deutsche Telekom [Member]
Revolving Credit Facility [Line Items]
Line of credit facility, amount outstanding	$ 0

Tower Obligations Narrative (De

Tower Obligations Narrative (Details) $ in Millions	1 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Nov. 30, 2012USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)
Tower Transaction [Member]
Sale Leaseback Transaction [Line Items]
Property subject to sale, number of units	7,100
Net proceeds, financing activities	$ 2,500
Property subject to failed sale leaseback transaction, number of units	6,200
Lessee leasing arrangements, operating leases, term of contract	10 years	10 years
Sale leaseback transaction, fixed-price purchase options	$ 2,000
Imputed interest rate, financial obligation	8.00%
Tower Transaction [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Sale Leaseback Transaction [Line Items]
Lessee leasing arrangements, operating leases, term of contract	23 years
Tower Transaction [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Sale Leaseback Transaction [Line Items]
Lessee leasing arrangements, operating leases, term of contract	37 years
Tower Transaction PTI [Member]
Sale Leaseback Transaction [Line Items]
Property subject to sale, number of units			600
Net proceeds, financing activities			$ 140
Property subject to failed sale leaseback transaction, number of units		200
Imputed interest rate, financial obligation			3.00%

Tower Obligations Sale Leasebac

Tower Obligations Sale Leaseback Transaction (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Leases [Abstract]
Property and equipment, net	$ 485	$ 601
Tower obligations	$ 2,621	$ 2,658

Tower Obligations Future Minimu

Tower Obligations Future Minimum Payments (Details) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)
Leases [Abstract]
2,017	$ 184
2,018	184
2,019	184
2,020	185
2,021	185
Thereafter	1,164
Total	$ 2,086

Employee Compensation and Ben66

Employee Compensation and Benefit Plans Stock Awards (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Stock-based compensation expense	$ 235	$ 201	$ 196
Income tax benefit related to stock-based compensation	80	71	73
RSU and PSU Weighted Average Grant-Date Fair Value
Taxes paid related to net share settlement of stock awards	$ 121	$ 156	$ 73
Restricted Stock Units and Performance Stock Units [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Weighted average fair value per stock award granted	$ 45.07	$ 35.56	$ 28.52
Unrecognized compensation expense	$ 389	$ 327	$ 271
Weighted average period to be recognized (years)	2 years	2 years	1 year 11 months
Fair value of stock awards vested	$ 354	$ 445	$ 209
RSU and PSU Shares
Nonvested, beginning	16,334,271
Granted	8,431,980
Vested	(7,712,463)
Forfeited	(1,338,397)
Nonvested, ending	15,715,391	16,334,271
RSU and PSU Weighted Average Grant-Date Fair Value
Nonvested, beginning	$ 29.95
Granted	45.07	$ 35.56	$ 28.52
Vested	28.33
Forfeited	34.42
Nonvested, ending	$ 37.93	$ 29.95
Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term (Years)	1 year 1 month	1 year 2 months
Aggregate Intrinsic Value	$ 904	$ 639
Shares paid for tax withholding for share based compensation	2,605,807	4,176,464
Maximum [Member] | Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Award vesting period	3 years
Maximum [Member] | Performance Shares [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Award vesting period	3 years
2013 Omnibus Incentive Plan [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Shares authorized for issuance	63,000,000
Shares available for future grant	22,000,000
Predecessor Plans [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Realized excess tax benefit	$ 0	$ 79	$ 34

Employee Compensation and Ben67

Employee Compensation and Benefit Plans Employee Stock Purchase Plan (Details) - shares	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP) Disclosures [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Maximum Employee Subscription Rate	15.00%
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Discount from Market Price, Purchase Date	15.00%
Common Stock [Member]
Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP) Disclosures [Line Items]
Stock issued for employee stock purchase plan, shares	1,905,534	761,085

Employee Compensation and Ben68

Employee Compensation and Benefit Plans Stock Options (Details) - Predecessor Plans [Member] - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Stock Options
Outstanding and exercisable, beginning	1,824,354
Exercised	(982,904)
Expired	(7,519)
Outstanding and exercisable, ending	833,931	1,824,354
Stock Options Weighted Average Exercise Price
Outstanding and exercisable, beginning	$ 30.50
Exercised	29.34
Expired	44.21
Outstanding and exercisable, ending	$ 31.75	$ 30.50
Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term (Years)	2 years 4 months	2 years 8 months
Cash received from exercise of stock options	$ 29	$ 47

Employee Compensation and Ben69

Employee Compensation and Benefit Plans Employee Retirement Savings and Compensation Plans (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Deferred Compensation Arrangement with Individual, Excluding Share-based Payments and Postretirement Benefits [Line Items]
Employer retirement savings plan, matching contributions	$ 83	$ 73	$ 66
Long Term Incentive Plan [Member]
Deferred Compensation Arrangement with Individual, Excluding Share-based Payments and Postretirement Benefits [Line Items]
Compensation expense	0	27	44
Payments	$ 52	$ 57	$ 60

Income Taxes Income Tax Domesti

Income Taxes Income Tax Domestic and Foreign (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income (loss) from income taxes, U.S.	$ 2,286	$ 898	$ 347
Income (loss) from income taxes, Puerto Rico	41	80	66
Income before income taxes	$ 2,327	$ 978	$ 413

Income Taxes Components of Inco

Income Taxes Components of Income Tax Expense (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Current tax expense (benefit)
Federal	$ (66)	$ (30)	$ 0
State	29	2	6
Puerto Rico	(10)	17	38
Total current tax expense (benefit)	(47)	(11)	44
Deferred tax expense (benefit)
Federal	804	281	79
State	96	(37)	40
Puerto Rico	14	12	3
Total deferred tax expense	914	256	122
Total income tax expense	$ 867	$ 245	$ 166

Income Taxes Effective Income T

Income Taxes Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent [Abstract]
Federal statutory income tax rate	35.00%	35.00%	35.00%
State taxes, net of federal benefit	4.00%	(1.10%)	(8.80%)
Puerto Rico taxes, net of federal benefit	0.00%	3.30%	5.00%
Change in valuation allowance	1.00%	(3.20%)	18.80%
Permanent differences	0.60%	1.60%	1.40%
Federal tax credits, net of reserves	(0.50%)	(9.50%)	(10.60%)
Equity-based compensation	(2.20%)	0.00%	0.00%
Other, net	(0.60%)	(1.00%)	(0.60%)
Effective income tax rate	37.30%	25.10%	40.20%

Income Taxes Deferred Tax Asset

Income Taxes Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Deferred tax assets
Loss carryforwards	$ 1,442	$ 1,997
Deferred rents	1,153	1,136
Reserves and accruals	1,058	928
Federal and state tax credits	284	349
Debt fair market value adjustment	83	97
Other	430	317
Deferred tax assets, gross	4,450	4,824
Valuation allowance	(573)	(583)
Deferred tax assets, net	3,877	4,241
Deferred tax liabilities
Spectrum licenses	6,952	6,174
Property and equipment	1,732	1,950
Other intangible assets	119	178
Other	12	0
Total deferred tax liabilities	8,815	8,302
Net deferred tax liabilities	4,938	4,061
Deferred tax liabilities	$ 4,938	$ 4,061

Income Taxes Operating Loss Car

Income Taxes Operating Loss Carryforwards (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Alternative minimum tax credit carryforward	$ 89
Foreign tax credits	284	$ 349
Valuation allowance	(573)	$ (583)
Valuation allowance, change in amount	(10)
Deferred tax assets, stock compensation	33
Federal
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Unrecognized tax benefits, net operating loss	204
Operating loss carryforwards	1,100
Carryforward, net operating loss, tax effected	204
Federal | Research Tax Credit Carryforward
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Foreign tax credits	174
State
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Unrecognized tax benefits, net operating loss	167
Operating loss carryforwards	689
Carryforward, net operating loss, tax effected	$ 167

Income Taxes Unrecognized Tax B

Income Taxes Unrecognized Tax Benefits (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns [Roll Forward]
Unrecognized tax benefits, beginning of year	$ 411	$ 388	$ 178
Gross decreases to tax positions in prior periods	(5)	(112)	(52)
Gross increases to current period tax positions	4	135	262
Unrecognized tax benefits, end of year	410	411	$ 388
Unrecognized tax benefits that would impact effective tax rate	$ 168	$ 163

Earnings Per Share (Details)

Earnings Per Share (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Millions	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Net income	$ 390	$ 366	$ 225	$ 479	$ 297	$ 138	$ 361	$ (63)	$ 1,460	$ 733	$ 247
Less: Dividends on mandatory convertible preferred stock	(14)	(13)	(14)	(14)	(14)	(13)	(14)	(14)	(55)	(55)	0
Net income attributable to common stockholders - basic and diluted	$ 376	$ 353	$ 211	$ 465	$ 283	$ 125	$ 347	$ (77)	$ 1,405	$ 678	$ 247
Weighted average shares outstanding - basic (in shares)	824,982,734	822,998,697	822,434,490	819,431,761	816,585,782	815,069,272	811,605,031	808,605,526	822,470,275	812,994,028	805,284,712
Outstanding stock options and unvested stock awards (in shares)									10,584,270	9,623,910	8,893,887
Mandatory convertible preferred stock (in shares)									0	0	1,743,659
Weighted average shares outstanding - diluted (in shares)	867,262,400	832,257,819	829,752,956	859,382,827	824,716,119	822,017,220	821,122,537	808,605,526	833,054,545	822,617,938	815,922,258
Earnings per share - basic (in USD per share)	$ 0.46	$ 0.43	$ 0.26	$ 0.57	$ 0.35	$ 0.15	$ 0.43	$ (0.09)	$ 1.71	$ 0.83	$ 0.31
Earnings per share - diluted (in USD per share)	$ 0.45	$ 0.42	$ 0.25	$ 0.56	$ 0.34	$ 0.15	$ 0.42	$ (0.09)	$ 1.69	$ 0.82	$ 0.30
Outstanding stock options and unvested stock awards (in shares)
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]
Potentially dilutive securities									3,528,683	4,842,370	1,426,331
Preferred Stock [Member]
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]
Potentially dilutive securities									32,237,266	32,237,266	0

Commitments and Contingencies O

Commitments and Contingencies Operating Leases and Purchase Commitments (Details) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)
Operating Leases
2,017	$ 2,417
2,018	2,118
2,019	1,832
2,020	1,511
2,021	1,102
Thereafter	2,188
Total	11,168
Purchase Commitments
2,017	2,011
2,018	977
2,019	841
2,020	704
2,021	626
Thereafter	960
Total	$ 6,119

Commitments and Contingencies78

Commitments and Contingencies Operating Leases (Details) - USD ($) $ in Billions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Operating Leased Assets [Line Items]
Reduction to outstanding operating lease commitments	$ 4.6
Rent expense	$ 2.8	$ 2.8	$ 3
Minimum [Member] | Cell Sites [Member]
Operating Leased Assets [Line Items]
Lessee leasing arrangements, term of contract	5 years
Maximum [Member] | Cell Sites [Member]
Operating Leased Assets [Line Items]
Lessee leasing arrangements, term of contract	10 years

Commitments and Contingencies R

Commitments and Contingencies Related-Party Commitments - Secured Term Loan Facility (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Jan. 31, 2017	Jan. 25, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Secured Debt [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Secured debt			$ 1,980	$ 2,000
Long-term debt, percentage bearing variable interest, percentage rate			2.75%
Subsequent Event [Member] | Refinanced Secured Term Loans [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Secured debt		$ 1,980
Deutsche Telekom [Member] | Secured Debt [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt instrument, face amount			$ 660
Deutsche Telekom [Member] | Subsequent Event [Member] | Secured Term Loan [$4.0B] [Domain]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Secured debt		$ 4,000
Deutsche Telekom [Member] | Subsequent Event [Member] | 2.00% Margin Plus LIBOR Secured Term Loan due 2022 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Secured debt	$ 2,000
Long-term debt, percentage bearing variable interest, percentage rate	2.00%
Deutsche Telekom [Member] | Subsequent Event [Member] | 2.25% Margin Plus LIBOR Secured Term Loan due 2024 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Secured debt	$ 2,000
Long-term debt, percentage bearing variable interest, percentage rate	2.25%
Deutsche Telekom [Member] | Subsequent Event [Member] | Secured Debt [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt instrument, increase in maximum debt capacity	$ 2,000
Debt instrument, additional debt capacity	$ 2,000

Commitments and Contingencies80

Commitments and Contingencies Related-Party Commitments - Line of Credit Facility (Details) - Revolving Credit Facility [$2.5B] [Member] - Deutsche Telekom [Member] $ in Billions	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)
Revolving Credit Facility [Line Items]
Revolving credit facility, current borrowing capacity	$ 2.5
Unsecured Revolving Credit Facility [Member]
Revolving Credit Facility [Line Items]
Revolving credit facility, current borrowing capacity	1
Secured Revolving Credit Facility [Member]
Revolving Credit Facility [Line Items]
Revolving credit facility, current borrowing capacity	$ 1.5

Additional Financial Informat81

Additional Financial Information Imputed Discount and Allowances (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable [Roll Forward]
Bad debt expense	$ 477	$ 547	$ 444
Unamortized Imputed Discount [Roll Forward]
Imputed discount, beginning of year	185
Interest income	(261)	(420)	(359)
Imputed discount, end of year	195	185
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts [Member] | Accounts Receivable [Member]
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable [Roll Forward]
Allowances, beginning of year	264	199	169
Bad debt expense	477	547	444
Write-offs, net of recoveries	(518)	(482)	(414)
Allowances, end of year	223	264	199
Imputed Discount [Member] | Equipment Installment Plan Receivables, Net [Member]
Unamortized Imputed Discount [Roll Forward]
Imputed discount, beginning of year	159	271	212
Additions	362	310	380
Interest income	(248)	(414)	(355)
Cancellations and other	(47)	(78)	(92)
Impacts from sales of EIP receivables	(152)	(55)	0
Transfers between current and long-term	100	125	126
Imputed discount, end of year	174	159	271
Imputed Discount [Member] | Equipment Installment Plan Receivables Due After One Year, Net [Member]
Unamortized Imputed Discount [Roll Forward]
Imputed discount, beginning of year	26	61	64
Additions	134	111	141
Cancellations and other	(15)	(13)	(18)
Impacts from sales of EIP receivables	(24)	(8)	0
Transfers between current and long-term	(100)	(125)	(126)
Imputed discount, end of year	$ 21	$ 26	$ 61

Additional Financial Informat82

Additional Financial Information Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Accounts payable	$ 5,163	$ 6,137
Payroll and related benefits	559	521
Property and other taxes, including payroll	525	494
Interest	423	371
Commissions	159	190
Network decommissioning	101	117
Toll and interconnect	85	68
Advertising	44	77
Other	93	109
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	7,152	8,084
Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities [Member]
Outstanding checks	$ 356	$ 501

Additional Financial Informat83

Additional Financial Information Other (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Additional Financial Information [Abstract]
Asset purchase deposit	$ 2,203	$ 0

Additional Financial Informat84

Additional Financial Information Related Party Transactions (Details) - Deutsche Telekom [Member] - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Discount related to roaming expenses	$ (15)	$ (21)	$ (61)
Fees incurred for use of the T-Mobile brand	74	65	60
Expenses for telecommunications and IT services	25	23	24
International long distance agreement	60	0	0
Reimbursement of certain administrative expenses	$ 11	$ 2	$ 0

Additional Financial Informat85

Additional Financial Information Supplemental Statements of Stockholders' Equity Information (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Issuance of preferred stock, shares	20,000,000	20,000,000
Proceeds from issuance of preferred stock	$ 0	$ 0	$ 982
Annual dividend rate	5.50%	5.50%
Preferred Stock [Member]
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Annual dividend rate			5.50%
Liquidation preference per share			$ 50
Preferred Stock [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Shares issued upon conversion			1.6119
Preferred Stock [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Shares issued upon conversion			1.9342
Parent [Member]
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Proceeds from issuance of preferred stock			$ 982
Parent [Member] | Preferred Stock [Member]
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Issuance of preferred stock, shares			20,000,000
Proceeds from issuance of preferred stock			$ 982

Subsequent Events Subsequent 86

Subsequent Events Subsequent Events (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Mar. 06, 2017	Feb. 10, 2017	Feb. 01, 2017	Jan. 31, 2017	Jan. 25, 2017	Jan. 11, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
6.625% Senior Notes due 2020 [Member]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Interest rate, stated percentage							6.625%
6.625% Senior Notes due 2020 [Member] | Subsequent Event [Member]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Interest rate, stated percentage						6.625%
Debt Instrument, Repurchased Face Amount						$ 1,000
Debt Instrument, Redemption Price, Percentage		102.208%
Secured Term Loan [$4.0B] [Domain] | Deutsche Telekom [Member] | Subsequent Event [Member]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Secured debt					$ 4,000
Refinanced Secured Term Loans [Member] | Subsequent Event [Member]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Secured debt					$ 1,980
2.00% Margin Plus LIBOR Secured Term Loan due 2022 [Member] | Deutsche Telekom [Member] | Subsequent Event [Member]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Secured debt				$ 2,000
Long-term debt, percentage bearing variable interest, percentage rate				2.00%
2.25% Margin Plus LIBOR Secured Term Loan due 2024 [Member] | Deutsche Telekom [Member] | Subsequent Event [Member]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Secured debt				$ 2,000
Long-term debt, percentage bearing variable interest, percentage rate				2.25%
5.250% Senior Notes due 2018 [Member]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Interest rate, stated percentage							5.25%
5.250% Senior Notes due 2018 [Member] | Subsequent Event [Member]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Interest rate, stated percentage			5.25%
Debt Instrument, Repurchased Face Amount			$ 500
Debt Instrument, Redemption Price, Percentage	101.313%
Secured Debt [Member]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Secured debt							$ 1,980	$ 2,000
Long-term debt, percentage bearing variable interest, percentage rate							2.75%
Secured Debt [Member] | Deutsche Telekom [Member]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Debt instrument, face amount							$ 660
Secured Debt [Member] | Deutsche Telekom [Member] | Subsequent Event [Member]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Line of credit facility, maximum borrowing capacity				$ 2,000
Debt instrument, additional debt capacity				$ 2,000

Guarantor Financial Informati87

Guarantor Financial Information Narrative (Details) - 6.000% Senior Notes due 2024 [$1.0B] [Member] $ in Billions	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Long-term debt	$ 1
Interest rate, stated percentage	6.00%
Issuer [Member]
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Long-term debt	$ 1
Interest rate, stated percentage	6.00%

Guarantor Financial Informati88

Guarantor Financial Information (Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet Information) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Current assets
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 5,500	$ 4,582	$ 5,315	$ 5,891
Short-term investments	0	2,998
Accounts receivable, net	1,896	1,788
Equipment installment plan receivables, net	1,930	2,378
Accounts receivable from affiliates	40	36
Inventories	1,111	1,295
Asset purchase deposit	2,203	0
Other current assets	1,537	1,813
Total current assets	14,217	14,890
Property and equipment, net	20,943	20,000
Goodwill	1,683	1,683
Spectrum licenses	27,014	23,955
Other intangible assets, net	376	594
Investments in subsidiaries, net	0	0
Intercompany receivables	0	0
Equipment installment plan receivables due after one year, net	984	847
Other assets	674	444
Total assets	65,891	62,413
Current liabilities
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	7,152	8,084
Payables to affiliates	125	135
Short-term debt	354	182
Deferred revenue	986	717
Other current liabilities	405	410
Total current liabilities	9,022	9,528
Long-term debt	21,832	20,461
Long-term debt to affiliates	5,600	5,600
Tower obligations	2,621	2,658
Deferred tax liabilities	4,938	4,061
Deferred rent expense	2,616	2,481
Negative carrying value of subsidiaries, net	0	0
Intercompany payables	0	0
Other long-term liabilities	1,026	1,067
Total long-term liabilities	38,633	36,328
Total stockholders' equity (deficit)	18,236	16,557	15,663	14,245
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity	65,891	62,413
Consolidating and Eliminating Adjustments [Member]
Current assets
Cash and cash equivalents	0	0	0	0
Short-term investments		0
Accounts receivable, net	0	0
Equipment installment plan receivables, net	0	0
Accounts receivable from affiliates	0	0
Inventories	0	0
Asset purchase deposit	0
Other current assets	0	0
Total current assets	0	0
Property and equipment, net	0	0
Goodwill	0	0
Spectrum licenses	0	0
Other intangible assets, net	0	0
Investments in subsidiaries, net	(52,777)	(48,464)
Intercompany receivables	(7,022)	(6,130)
Equipment installment plan receivables due after one year, net	0	0
Other assets	(195)	(167)
Total assets	(59,994)	(54,761)
Current liabilities
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	0	0
Payables to affiliates	0	0
Short-term debt	0	0
Deferred revenue	0	0
Other current liabilities	0	0
Total current liabilities	0	0
Long-term debt	0	0
Long-term debt to affiliates	0	0
Tower obligations	0	0
Deferred tax liabilities	(195)	(167)
Deferred rent expense	0	0
Negative carrying value of subsidiaries, net	(568)	(628)
Intercompany payables	(7,022)	(6,130)
Other long-term liabilities	0	0
Total long-term liabilities	(7,785)	(6,925)
Total stockholders' equity (deficit)	(52,209)	(47,836)
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity	(59,994)	(54,761)
Parent [Member]
Current assets
Cash and cash equivalents	358	378	2,278	2,960
Short-term investments		0
Accounts receivable, net	0	0
Equipment installment plan receivables, net	0	0
Accounts receivable from affiliates	0	0
Inventories	0	0
Asset purchase deposit	0
Other current assets	0	0
Total current assets	358	378
Property and equipment, net	0	0
Goodwill	0	0
Spectrum licenses	0	0
Other intangible assets, net	0	0
Investments in subsidiaries, net	17,682	16,184
Intercompany receivables	196	0
Equipment installment plan receivables due after one year, net	0	0
Other assets	0	0
Total assets	18,236	16,562
Current liabilities
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	0	0
Payables to affiliates	0	0
Short-term debt	0	0
Deferred revenue	0	0
Other current liabilities	0	0
Total current liabilities	0	0
Long-term debt	0	0
Long-term debt to affiliates	0	0
Tower obligations	0	0
Deferred tax liabilities	0	0
Deferred rent expense	0	0
Negative carrying value of subsidiaries, net	0	0
Intercompany payables	0	5
Other long-term liabilities	0	0
Total long-term liabilities	0	5
Total stockholders' equity (deficit)	18,236	16,557
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity	18,236	16,562
Issuer [Member]
Current assets
Cash and cash equivalents	2,733	1,767	2,246	2,698
Short-term investments		1,999
Accounts receivable, net	0	0
Equipment installment plan receivables, net	0	0
Accounts receivable from affiliates	0	0
Inventories	0	0
Asset purchase deposit	0
Other current assets	0	0
Total current assets	2,733	3,766
Property and equipment, net	0	0
Goodwill	0	0
Spectrum licenses	0	0
Other intangible assets, net	0	0
Investments in subsidiaries, net	35,095	32,280
Intercompany receivables	6,826	6,130
Equipment installment plan receivables due after one year, net	0	0
Other assets	7	5
Total assets	44,661	42,181
Current liabilities
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	423	368
Payables to affiliates	79	70
Short-term debt	20	20
Deferred revenue	0	0
Other current liabilities	0	0
Total current liabilities	522	458
Long-term debt	20,741	19,797
Long-term debt to affiliates	5,600	5,600
Tower obligations	0	0
Deferred tax liabilities	0	0
Deferred rent expense	0	0
Negative carrying value of subsidiaries, net	0	0
Intercompany payables	0	0
Other long-term liabilities	116	142
Total long-term liabilities	26,457	25,539
Total stockholders' equity (deficit)	17,682	16,184
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity	44,661	42,181
Guarantor Subsidiaries [Member]
Current assets
Cash and cash equivalents	2,342	2,364	697	57
Short-term investments		999
Accounts receivable, net	1,675	1,574
Equipment installment plan receivables, net	1,930	2,378
Accounts receivable from affiliates	40	36
Inventories	1,111	1,295
Asset purchase deposit	2,203
Other current assets	972	1,413
Total current assets	10,273	10,059
Property and equipment, net	20,568	19,546
Goodwill	1,683	1,683
Spectrum licenses	27,014	23,955
Other intangible assets, net	376	594
Investments in subsidiaries, net	0	0
Intercompany receivables	0	0
Equipment installment plan receivables due after one year, net	984	847
Other assets	600	387
Total assets	61,498	57,071
Current liabilities
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	6,474	7,496
Payables to affiliates	46	65
Short-term debt	334	162
Deferred revenue	986	717
Other current liabilities	258	327
Total current liabilities	8,098	8,767
Long-term debt	1,091	664
Long-term debt to affiliates	0	0
Tower obligations	400	411
Deferred tax liabilities	5,133	4,228
Deferred rent expense	2,616	2,481
Negative carrying value of subsidiaries, net	568	628
Intercompany payables	6,785	5,959
Other long-term liabilities	906	922
Total long-term liabilities	17,499	15,293
Total stockholders' equity (deficit)	35,901	33,011
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity	61,498	57,071
Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries [Member]
Current assets
Cash and cash equivalents	67	73	$ 94	$ 176
Short-term investments		0
Accounts receivable, net	221	214
Equipment installment plan receivables, net	0	0
Accounts receivable from affiliates	0	0
Inventories	0	0
Asset purchase deposit	0
Other current assets	565	400
Total current assets	853	687
Property and equipment, net	375	454
Goodwill	0	0
Spectrum licenses	0	0
Other intangible assets, net	0	0
Investments in subsidiaries, net	0	0
Intercompany receivables	0	0
Equipment installment plan receivables due after one year, net	0	0
Other assets	262	219
Total assets	1,490	1,360
Current liabilities
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	255	220
Payables to affiliates	0	0
Short-term debt	0	0
Deferred revenue	0	0
Other current liabilities	147	83
Total current liabilities	402	303
Long-term debt	0	0
Long-term debt to affiliates	0	0
Tower obligations	2,221	2,247
Deferred tax liabilities	0	0
Deferred rent expense	0	0
Negative carrying value of subsidiaries, net	0	0
Intercompany payables	237	166
Other long-term liabilities	4	3
Total long-term liabilities	2,462	2,416
Total stockholders' equity (deficit)	(1,374)	(1,359)
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity	$ 1,490	$ 1,360

Guarantor Financial Informati89

Guarantor Financial Information (Condensed Consolidating Statement of Comprehensive Income (Loss) Information) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Revenues
Service revenues									$ 27,844	$ 24,821	$ 22,375
Equipment revenues									8,727	6,718	6,789
Other revenues									671	514	400
Total revenues	$ 10,175	$ 9,246	$ 9,222	$ 8,599	$ 8,247	$ 7,849	$ 8,179	$ 7,778	37,242	32,053	29,564
Operating expenses
Cost of services, exclusive of depreciation and amortization shown separately below									5,731	5,554	5,788
Cost of equipment sales									10,819	9,344	9,621
Selling, general and administrative									11,378	10,189	8,863
Depreciation and amortization									6,243	4,688	4,412
Cost of MetroPCS business combination	(6)	15	59	36	21	193	34	128	104	376	299
Gains on disposal of spectrum licenses	0	(199)	0	(636)	(139)	(1)	(23)	0	(835)	(163)	(840)
Other, net									0	0	5
Total operating expenses									33,440	29,988	28,148
Operating income	942	989	768	1,103	838	513	597	117	3,802	2,065	1,416
Other income (expense)
Interest expense									(1,418)	(1,085)	(1,073)
Interest expense to affiliates									(312)	(411)	(278)
Interest income									261	420	359
Other income (expense), net									(6)	(11)	(11)
Total other income (expense), net									(1,475)	(1,087)	(1,003)
Income (loss) before income taxes									2,327	978	413
Income tax (expense) benefit									(867)	(245)	(166)
Earnings (loss) of subsidiaries									0	0	0
Net income (loss)	390	366	225	479	297	138	361	(63)	1,460	733	247
Dividends on preferred stock	(14)	(13)	(14)	(14)	(14)	(13)	(14)	(14)	(55)	(55)	0
Net income (loss) attributable to common stockholders	$ 376	$ 353	$ 211	$ 465	$ 283	$ 125	$ 347	$ (77)	1,405	678	247
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax									2	(2)	(2)
Total comprehensive income (loss)									1,462	731	245
Consolidating and Eliminating Adjustments [Member]
Revenues
Service revenues									(792)	(596)	(410)
Equipment revenues									(418)	(430)	(530)
Other revenues									(18)	(14)	(10)
Total revenues									(1,228)	(1,040)	(950)
Operating expenses
Cost of services, exclusive of depreciation and amortization shown separately below									0	0	0
Cost of equipment sales									(417)	(431)	(572)
Selling, general and administrative									(811)	(609)	(378)
Depreciation and amortization									0	0	0
Cost of MetroPCS business combination									0	0	0
Gains on disposal of spectrum licenses									0	0	0
Other, net											0
Total operating expenses									(1,228)	(1,040)	(950)
Operating income									0	0	0
Other income (expense)
Interest expense									0	0	0
Interest expense to affiliates									0	0	0
Interest income									0	0	0
Other income (expense), net									0	0	0
Total other income (expense), net									0	0	0
Income (loss) before income taxes									0	0	0
Income tax (expense) benefit									0		0
Earnings (loss) of subsidiaries									(4,326)	(2,683)	(1,471)
Net income (loss)									(4,326)	(2,683)	(1,471)
Dividends on preferred stock									0	0
Net income (loss) attributable to common stockholders									(4,326)	(2,683)
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax									(6)	4	4
Total comprehensive income (loss)									(4,332)	(2,679)	(1,467)
Parent [Member]
Revenues
Service revenues									0	0	0
Equipment revenues									0	0	0
Other revenues									0	0	0
Total revenues									0	0	0
Operating expenses
Cost of services, exclusive of depreciation and amortization shown separately below									0	0	0
Cost of equipment sales									0	0	0
Selling, general and administrative									0	0	0
Depreciation and amortization									0	0	0
Cost of MetroPCS business combination									0	0	0
Gains on disposal of spectrum licenses									0	0	0
Other, net											0
Total operating expenses									0	0	0
Operating income									0	0	0
Other income (expense)
Interest expense									0	0	0
Interest expense to affiliates									0	0	0
Interest income									0	0	0
Other income (expense), net									0	0	0
Total other income (expense), net									0	0	0
Income (loss) before income taxes									0	0	0
Income tax (expense) benefit									0		0
Earnings (loss) of subsidiaries									1,460	733	247
Net income (loss)									1,460	733	247
Dividends on preferred stock									(55)	(55)
Net income (loss) attributable to common stockholders									1,405	678
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax									2	(2)	(2)
Total comprehensive income (loss)									1,462	731	245
Issuer [Member]
Revenues
Service revenues									0	0	0
Equipment revenues									0	0	0
Other revenues									3	1	0
Total revenues									3	1	0
Operating expenses
Cost of services, exclusive of depreciation and amortization shown separately below									0	0	0
Cost of equipment sales									0	0	0
Selling, general and administrative									0	0	0
Depreciation and amortization									0	0	0
Cost of MetroPCS business combination									0	0	0
Gains on disposal of spectrum licenses									0	0	0
Other, net											0
Total operating expenses									0	0	0
Operating income									3	1	0
Other income (expense)
Interest expense									(1,147)	(847)	(838)
Interest expense to affiliates									(312)	(411)	(278)
Interest income									31	2	0
Other income (expense), net									2	(10)	(15)
Total other income (expense), net									(1,426)	(1,266)	(1,131)
Income (loss) before income taxes									(1,423)	(1,265)	(1,131)
Income tax (expense) benefit									0		0
Earnings (loss) of subsidiaries									2,883	1,998	1,278
Net income (loss)									1,460	733	147
Dividends on preferred stock									0	0
Net income (loss) attributable to common stockholders									1,460	733
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax									2	(2)	(2)
Total comprehensive income (loss)									1,462	731	145
Guarantor Subsidiaries [Member]
Revenues
Service revenues									26,613	23,748	21,483
Equipment revenues									9,145	7,148	7,319
Other revenues									491	356	270
Total revenues									36,249	31,252	29,072
Operating expenses
Cost of services, exclusive of depreciation and amortization shown separately below									5,707	5,530	5,767
Cost of equipment sales									10,209	9,055	9,491
Selling, general and administrative									11,321	10,065	8,723
Depreciation and amortization									6,165	4,605	4,330
Cost of MetroPCS business combination									104	376	299
Gains on disposal of spectrum licenses									(835)	(163)	(840)
Other, net											5
Total operating expenses									32,671	29,468	27,775
Operating income									3,578	1,784	1,297
Other income (expense)
Interest expense									(82)	(50)	(55)
Interest expense to affiliates									0	0	0
Interest income									230	418	359
Other income (expense), net									(8)	0	4
Total other income (expense), net									140	368	308
Income (loss) before income taxes									3,718	2,152	1,605
Income tax (expense) benefit									(857)	(214)	(189)
Earnings (loss) of subsidiaries									(17)	(48)	(54)
Net income (loss)									2,844	1,890	1,362
Dividends on preferred stock									0	0
Net income (loss) attributable to common stockholders									2,844	1,890
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax									2	(2)	(2)
Total comprehensive income (loss)									2,846	1,888	1,360
Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries [Member]
Revenues
Service revenues									2,023	1,669	1,302
Equipment revenues									0	0	0
Other revenues									195	171	140
Total revenues									2,218	1,840	1,442
Operating expenses
Cost of services, exclusive of depreciation and amortization shown separately below									24	24	21
Cost of equipment sales									1,027	720	702
Selling, general and administrative									868	733	518
Depreciation and amortization									78	83	82
Cost of MetroPCS business combination									0	0	0
Gains on disposal of spectrum licenses									0	0	0
Other, net											0
Total operating expenses									1,997	1,560	1,323
Operating income									221	280	119
Other income (expense)
Interest expense									(189)	(188)	(180)
Interest expense to affiliates									0	0	0
Interest income									0	0	0
Other income (expense), net									0	(1)	0
Total other income (expense), net									(189)	(189)	(180)
Income (loss) before income taxes									32	91	(61)
Income tax (expense) benefit									(10)	(31)	23
Earnings (loss) of subsidiaries									0	0	0
Net income (loss)									22	60	(38)
Dividends on preferred stock									0	0
Net income (loss) attributable to common stockholders									22	60
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax									2	0	0
Total comprehensive income (loss)									$ 24	$ 60	$ (38)

Guarantor Financial Informati90

Guarantor Financial Information (Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows Information) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Operating activities
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities	$ 6,135	$ 5,414	$ 4,146
Investing activities
Purchases of property and equipment	(4,702)	(4,724)	(4,317)
Purchases of spectrum licenses and other intangible assets, including deposits	(3,968)	(1,935)	(2,900)
Purchases of short-term investments	0	(2,997)	0
Investment in subsidiaries		0	0
Sales of short-term investments	2,998	0	0
Other, net	(8)	96	(29)
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities	(5,680)	(9,560)	(7,246)
Financing activities
Proceeds from capital contribution		0	0
Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt	997	3,979	2,993
Proceeds from tower obligations	0	140	0
Repayments of capital lease obligations	(205)	(57)	(19)
Repayments of short-term debt for purchases of inventory, property and equipment, net	(150)	(564)	(418)
Repayments of long-term debt	(20)	0	(1,000)
Proceeds from exercise of stock options	29	47	27
Proceeds from issuance of preferred stock	0	0	982
Tax withholdings on share-based awards	(121)	(156)	(73)
Intercompany dividend paid	0	0	0
Dividends on preferred stock	(55)	(55)	0
Other, net	(12)	79	32
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities	463	3,413	2,524
Change in cash and cash equivalents	918	(733)	(576)
Beginning of period	4,582	5,315	5,891
End of period	5,500	4,582	5,315
Consolidating and Eliminating Adjustments [Member]
Operating activities
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities	(110)	(175)	(100)
Investing activities
Purchases of property and equipment	0	0	0
Purchases of spectrum licenses and other intangible assets, including deposits	0	0	0
Purchases of short-term investments		0
Investment in subsidiaries		1,905	1,700
Sales of short-term investments	0
Other, net	0	0	0
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities	0	1,905	1,700
Financing activities
Proceeds from capital contribution		(1,905)	(1,700)
Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt	0	0	0
Proceeds from tower obligations		0
Repayments of capital lease obligations	0	0	0
Repayments of short-term debt for purchases of inventory, property and equipment, net	0	0	0
Repayments of long-term debt	0		0
Proceeds from exercise of stock options	0	0	0
Proceeds from issuance of preferred stock			0
Tax withholdings on share-based awards	0	0	0
Intercompany dividend paid	110	175	100
Dividends on preferred stock	0	0
Other, net	0	0	0
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities	110	(1,730)	(1,600)
Change in cash and cash equivalents	0	0	0
Beginning of period	0	0	0
End of period	0	0	0
Parent [Member]
Operating activities
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities	6	(1)	9
Investing activities
Purchases of property and equipment	0	0	0
Purchases of spectrum licenses and other intangible assets, including deposits	0	0	0
Purchases of short-term investments		0
Investment in subsidiaries		(1,905)	(1,700)
Sales of short-term investments	0
Other, net	0	0	0
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities	0	(1,905)	(1,700)
Financing activities
Proceeds from capital contribution		0	0
Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt	0	0	0
Proceeds from tower obligations		0
Repayments of capital lease obligations	0	0	0
Repayments of short-term debt for purchases of inventory, property and equipment, net	0	0	0
Repayments of long-term debt	0		0
Proceeds from exercise of stock options	29	47	27
Proceeds from issuance of preferred stock			982
Tax withholdings on share-based awards	0	0	0
Intercompany dividend paid	0	0	0
Dividends on preferred stock	(55)	(41)
Other, net	0	0	0
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities	(26)	6	1,009
Change in cash and cash equivalents	(20)	(1,900)	(682)
Beginning of period	378	2,278	2,960
End of period	358	378	2,278
Issuer [Member]
Operating activities
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities	(2,031)	(4,504)	(5,145)
Investing activities
Purchases of property and equipment	0	0	0
Purchases of spectrum licenses and other intangible assets, including deposits	0	0	0
Purchases of short-term investments		(1,999)
Investment in subsidiaries		0	0
Sales of short-term investments	2,000
Other, net	0	0	0
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities	2,000	(1,999)	0
Financing activities
Proceeds from capital contribution		1,905	1,700
Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt	997	3,979	2,993
Proceeds from tower obligations		140
Repayments of capital lease obligations	0	0	0
Repayments of short-term debt for purchases of inventory, property and equipment, net	0	0	0
Repayments of long-term debt	0		0
Proceeds from exercise of stock options	0	0	0
Proceeds from issuance of preferred stock			0
Tax withholdings on share-based awards	0	0	0
Intercompany dividend paid	0	0	0
Dividends on preferred stock	0	0
Other, net	0	0	0
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities	997	6,024	4,693
Change in cash and cash equivalents	966	(479)	(452)
Beginning of period	1,767	2,246	2,698
End of period	2,733	1,767	2,246
Guarantor Subsidiaries [Member]
Operating activities
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities	8,166	9,940	9,364
Investing activities
Purchases of property and equipment	(4,702)	(4,724)	(4,317)
Purchases of spectrum licenses and other intangible assets, including deposits	(3,968)	(1,935)	(2,900)
Purchases of short-term investments		(998)
Investment in subsidiaries		0	0
Sales of short-term investments	998
Other, net	(8)	96	(29)
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities	(7,680)	(7,561)	(7,246)
Financing activities
Proceeds from capital contribution		0	0
Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt	0	0	0
Proceeds from tower obligations		0
Repayments of capital lease obligations	(205)	(57)	(19)
Repayments of short-term debt for purchases of inventory, property and equipment, net	(150)	(564)	(418)
Repayments of long-term debt	(20)		(1,000)
Proceeds from exercise of stock options	0	0	0
Proceeds from issuance of preferred stock			0
Tax withholdings on share-based awards	(121)	(156)	(73)
Intercompany dividend paid	0	0	0
Dividends on preferred stock	0	(14)
Other, net	(12)	79	32
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities	(508)	(712)	(1,478)
Change in cash and cash equivalents	(22)	1,667	640
Beginning of period	2,364	697	57
End of period	2,342	2,364	697
Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries [Member]
Operating activities
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities	104	154	18
Investing activities
Purchases of property and equipment	0	0	0
Purchases of spectrum licenses and other intangible assets, including deposits	0	0	0
Purchases of short-term investments		0
Investment in subsidiaries		0	0
Sales of short-term investments	0
Other, net	0	0	0
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities	0	0	0
Financing activities
Proceeds from capital contribution		0	0
Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt	0	0	0
Proceeds from tower obligations		0
Repayments of capital lease obligations	0	0	0
Repayments of short-term debt for purchases of inventory, property and equipment, net	0	0	0
Repayments of long-term debt	0		0
Proceeds from exercise of stock options	0	0	0
Proceeds from issuance of preferred stock			0
Tax withholdings on share-based awards	0	0	0
Intercompany dividend paid	(110)	(175)	(100)
Dividends on preferred stock	0	0
Other, net	0	0	0
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities	(110)	(175)	(100)
Change in cash and cash equivalents	(6)	(21)	(82)
Beginning of period	73	94	176
End of period	$ 67	$ 73	$ 94

Quarterly Financial Informati91

Quarterly Financial Information (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Millions	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Quarterly Financial Information [Abstract]
Total revenues	$ 10,175	$ 9,246	$ 9,222	$ 8,599	$ 8,247	$ 7,849	$ 8,179	$ 7,778	$ 37,242	$ 32,053	$ 29,564
Operating income	942	989	768	1,103	838	513	597	117	3,802	2,065	1,416
Net income (loss)	390	366	225	479	297	138	361	(63)	1,460	733	247
Dividends on preferred stock	(14)	(13)	(14)	(14)	(14)	(13)	(14)	(14)	(55)	(55)	0
Net income (loss) attributable to common stockholders	$ 376	$ 353	$ 211	$ 465	$ 283	$ 125	$ 347	$ (77)	$ 1,405	$ 678	$ 247
Earnings per share - basic (in USD per share)	$ 0.46	$ 0.43	$ 0.26	$ 0.57	$ 0.35	$ 0.15	$ 0.43	$ (0.09)	$ 1.71	$ 0.83	$ 0.31
Earnings per share - diluted (in USD per share)	$ 0.45	$ 0.42	$ 0.25	$ 0.56	$ 0.34	$ 0.15	$ 0.42	$ (0.09)	$ 1.69	$ 0.82	$ 0.30
Weighted average shares outstanding - basic (in shares)	824,982,734	822,998,697	822,434,490	819,431,761	816,585,782	815,069,272	811,605,031	808,605,526	822,470,275	812,994,028	805,284,712
Weighted average shares outstanding - diluted (in shares)	867,262,400	832,257,819	829,752,956	859,382,827	824,716,119	822,017,220	821,122,537	808,605,526	833,054,545	822,617,938	815,922,258
Cost of MetroPCS business combination	$ (6)	$ 15	$ 59	$ 36	$ 21	$ 193	$ 34	$ 128	$ 104	$ 376	$ 299
Gains on disposal of spectrum licenses	$ 0	$ (199)	$ 0	$ (636)	$ (139)	$ (1)	$ (23)	$ 0	$ (835)	$ (163)	$ (840)