Document Entity Information
Document Entity Information - USD ($) shares in Millions, $ in Billions | 12 Months Ended | |
Dec. 31, 2018 | Feb. 12, 2019 | |
Document And Entity Information [Abstract] | ||
Document Type | 10-K | |
Amendment Flag | false | |
Document Period End Date | Dec. 31, 2018 | |
Entity Registrant Name | AT&T Inc. | |
Entity Central Index Key | 732,717 | |
Current Fiscal Year End Date | --12-31 | |
Entity Filer Category | Large Accelerated Filer | |
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding | 7,285 | |
Document Fiscal Year Focus | 2,018 | |
Document Fiscal Period Focus | FY | |
Entity Public Float | $ 233 | |
Entity Voluntary Filers | No | |
Entity Current Reporting Status | Yes | |
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer | Yes | |
Entity Trading Symbol | T | |
Entity Emerging Growth Company | false | |
Entity Small Business | false | |
Entity Shell Company | false |
Consolidated Statements Of Inco
Consolidated Statements Of Income - USD ($) $ in Millions | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2018 | Dec. 31, 2017 | Dec. 31, 2016 | |
Operating Revenues | |||
Service | $ 152,345 | $ 145,597 | $ 148,884 |
Equipment | 18,411 | 14,949 | 14,902 |
Total operating revenues | 170,756 | 160,546 | 163,786 |
Operating Expenses | |||
Equipment | 19,786 | 18,709 | 18,757 |
Broadcast, programming and operations | 26,727 | 21,159 | 19,851 |
Other cost of revenues (exclusive of depreciation and amortization shown separately below) | 32,906 | 37,942 | 38,582 |
Selling, general and administrative | 36,765 | 35,465 | 36,845 |
Asset abandonments and impairments | 46 | 2,914 | 361 |
Depreciation and amortization | 28,430 | 24,387 | 25,847 |
Total operating expenses | 144,660 | 140,576 | 140,243 |
Operating Income | 26,096 | 19,970 | 23,543 |
Other Income (Expense) | |||
Interest expense | (7,957) | (6,300) | (4,910) |
Equity in net income (loss) of affiliates | (48) | (128) | 98 |
Other income (expense) - net | 6,782 | 1,597 | 1,081 |
Total other income (expense) | (1,223) | (4,831) | (3,731) |
Income Before Income Taxes | 24,873 | 15,139 | 19,812 |
Income tax (benefit) expense | 4,920 | (14,708) | 6,479 |
Net Income | 19,953 | 29,847 | 13,333 |
Less: Net Income Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest | (583) | (397) | (357) |
Net Income Attributable to AT&T | $ 19,370 | $ 29,450 | $ 12,976 |
Basic Earnings Per Share Attributable to AT&T | $ 2.85 | $ 4.77 | $ 2.1 |
Diluted Earnings Per Share Attributable to AT&T | $ 2.85 | $ 4.76 | $ 2.1 |
Consolidated Statements of Comp
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income - USD ($) $ in Millions | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2018 | Dec. 31, 2017 | Dec. 31, 2016 | |
Consolidated Statements Of Comprehensive Income [Abstract] | |||
Net Income | $ 19,953 | $ 29,847 | $ 13,333 |
Foreign Currency: | |||
Foreign currency translation adjustment (includes $(32), $(5) and $20 attributable to noncontrolling interest), net of taxes of $(45), $123 and $357 | (1,062) | 15 | (777) |
Securities: | |||
Net unrealized gains (losses), net of taxes of $(1), $109 and $36 | (4) | 187 | 58 |
Reclassification adjustment included in net income, net of taxes of $0, $(117) and $(1) | 0 | (185) | (1) |
Derivative Instruments: | |||
Net unrealized gains (losses), net of taxes of $(156), $200 and $371 | (597) | 371 | 690 |
Reclassification adjustment included in net income, net of taxes of $6, $21 and $21 | 13 | 39 | 38 |
Defined benefit postretirement plans: | |||
Net prior service credit arising during period, net of taxes of $271, $675 and $305 | 830 | 1,083 | 497 |
Amortization of net prior service credit included in net income, net of taxes of $(431), $(604) and $(525) | (1,322) | (988) | (858) |
Other comprehensive income (loss) | (2,142) | 522 | (353) |
Total comprehensive Income | 17,811 | 30,369 | 12,980 |
Less: Total comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interest | (551) | (392) | (377) |
Total Comprehensive Income Attributable to AT&T | $ 17,260 | $ 29,977 | $ 12,603 |
Consolidated Statements of Co_2
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Parenthetical) - USD ($) $ in Millions | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2018 | Dec. 31, 2017 | Dec. 31, 2016 | |
Consolidated Statements Of Comprehensive Income [Abstract] | |||
Foreign currency translation adjustments, attributable to noncontrolling interest, net of taxes | $ (32) | $ (5) | $ 20 |
Foreign currency translation adjustments, tax effect | (45) | 123 | 357 |
Unrealized gains (losses) on securities, tax effect | (1) | 109 | 36 |
Reclassification adjustment included in net income on securities, tax effect | 0 | (117) | (1) |
Unrealized gains (losses) on derivative instruments, tax effect | (156) | 200 | 371 |
Reclassification adjustment included in net income on derivative instruments, tax effect | 6 | 21 | 21 |
Net prior service credit (cost) arising during period - tax effect | 271 | 675 | 305 |
Amortization of net prior service cost (credit) included in net income, tax effect | $ (431) | $ (604) | $ (525) |
Consolidated Balance Sheets
Consolidated Balance Sheets - USD ($) $ in Millions | Dec. 31, 2018 | Dec. 31, 2017 |
Current Assets | ||
Cash and cash equivalents | $ 5,204 | $ 50,498 |
Accounts receivable - net of allowances for doubtful accounts of $907 and $663 | 26,472 | 16,522 |
Prepaid expenses | 2,047 | 1,369 |
Other current assets | 17,704 | 10,757 |
Total current assets | 51,427 | 79,146 |
Noncurrent inventories and theatrical film and television production costs | 7,713 | 0 |
Property, Plant and Equipment - Net | 131,473 | 125,222 |
Goodwill | 146,370 | 105,449 |
Licenses | 96,144 | 96,136 |
Trademarks And Tradenames - Net | 24,345 | 7,021 |
Distribution Networks - Net | 17,069 | 0 |
Other Intangible Assets - Net | 26,269 | 11,119 |
Investments In and Advances to Equity Affiliates | 6,245 | 1,560 |
Other Assets | 24,809 | 18,444 |
Total Assets | 531,864 | 444,097 |
Current Liabilities | ||
Debt maturing within one year | 10,255 | 38,374 |
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities | 43,184 | 34,470 |
Advanced billings and customer deposits | 5,948 | 4,213 |
Accrued taxes | 1,179 | 1,262 |
Dividends payable | 3,854 | 3,070 |
Total current liabilities | 64,420 | 81,389 |
Long-Term Debt | 166,250 | 125,972 |
Deferred Credits and Other Noncurrent Liabilities | ||
Deferred income taxes | 57,859 | 43,207 |
Postemployment benefit obligation | 19,218 | 31,775 |
Other noncurrent liabilities | 30,233 | 19,747 |
Total deferred credits and other noncurrent liabilities | 107,310 | 94,729 |
Stockholders' Equity | ||
Common stock ($1 par value, 14,000,000,000 authorized at December 31, 2018 and 2017: issued 7,620,748,598 at December 31, 2018 and 6,495,231,088 at 2017) | 7,621 | 6,495 |
Additional paid-in capital | 125,525 | 89,563 |
Retained earnings | 58,753 | 50,500 |
Treasury stock (339,120,073 at December 31, 2018 and 355,806,544 at December 31, 2017, at cost) | (12,059) | (12,714) |
Accumulated other comprehensive income | 4,249 | 7,017 |
Noncontrolling interest | 9,795 | 1,146 |
Total stockholders' equity | 193,884 | 142,007 |
Total Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity | $ 531,864 | $ 444,097 |
Consolidated Balance Sheets (Pa
Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) - USD ($) $ in Millions | Dec. 31, 2018 | Dec. 31, 2017 |
Consolidated Balance Sheets | ||
Allowances for doubtful accounts | $ 907 | $ 663 |
Common stock, par value | $ 1 | $ 1 |
Common stock, authorized | 14,000,000,000 | 14,000,000,000 |
Common stock, issued | 7,620,748,598 | 6,495,231,088 |
Treasury stock, held | 339,120,073 | 355,806,544 |
Consolidated Statements Of Cash
Consolidated Statements Of Cash Flows - USD ($) $ in Millions | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2018 | Dec. 31, 2017 | Dec. 31, 2016 | |
Operating Activities | |||
Net Income | $ 19,953 | $ 29,847 | $ 13,333 |
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities: | |||
Depreciation and amortization | 28,430 | 24,387 | 25,847 |
Amortization of film and television costs | 3,772 | 0 | 0 |
Undistributed earnings from investments in equity affiliates | 292 | 174 | (37) |
Provision for uncollectible accounts | 1,791 | 1,642 | 1,474 |
Deferred income tax (benefit) expense | 610 | (15,940) | 2,947 |
Net (gain) loss from sale of investments, net of impairments | (739) | (282) | (169) |
Actuarial loss (gain) on pension and postretirement benefits | (3,412) | 1,258 | 1,024 |
Asset abandonments and impairments | 46 | 2,914 | 361 |
Changes in operating assets and liabilities: | |||
Accounts receivable | (1,244) | (986) | (1,003) |
Other current assets and theatrical film and television production costs | (6,442) | (778) | 1,709 |
Accounts payable and other accrued liabilities | 1,602 | 816 | 118 |
Equipment installment receivables and related sales | (490) | (1,239) | (1,307) |
Deferred customer contract acquisition and fulfillment costs | (3,458) | (1,422) | (2,359) |
Retirement benefit funding | (500) | (1,066) | (910) |
Other - net | 3,391 | (1,315) | (2,586) |
Total adjustments | 23,649 | 8,163 | 25,109 |
Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities | 43,602 | 38,010 | 38,442 |
Investing Activities | |||
Purchase of property and equipment | (20,758) | (20,647) | (21,516) |
Interest during construction | (493) | (903) | (892) |
Acquisitions, net of cash acquired | (43,309) | 1,123 | (2,959) |
Disposition | 2,148 | 59 | 646 |
(Purchases) sales of securities, net | (185) | 449 | 672 |
Advances to and investments in equity affiliates | (1,050) | 0 | 1 |
Cash collections of deferred purchase price | 500 | 976 | 731 |
Other | 2 | 0 | (1) |
Net Cash Used in Investing Activities | (63,145) | (18,943) | (23,318) |
Financing Activities | |||
Net change in short-term borrowings with original maturities of three months or less | (821) | (2) | 0 |
Issuance of other short-term borrowings | 4,898 | 0 | 0 |
Repayment of other short-term bank borrowings | (2,098) | 0 | 0 |
Issuance of long-term debt | 41,875 | 48,793 | 10,140 |
Repayment of long-term debt | (52,643) | (12,339) | (10,823) |
Purchase of treasury stock | (609) | (463) | (512) |
Issuance of treasury stock | 745 | 33 | 146 |
Dividends paid | (13,410) | (12,038) | (11,797) |
Other | (3,926) | 1,946 | (1,616) |
Net Cash (Used in) Provided by Financing Activities | (25,989) | 25,930 | (14,462) |
Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash | (45,532) | 44,997 | 662 |
Cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash beginning of year | 50,932 | 5,935 | 5,273 |
Cash and Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash End of Period | $ 5,400 | $ 50,932 | $ 5,935 |
Consolidated Statements Of Chan
Consolidated Statements Of Changes In Stockholders' Equity - USD ($) shares in Millions, $ in Millions | Total | Common Stock [Member] | Additional Paid-In Capital [Member] | Retained Earnings [Member] | Treasury Stock [Member] | Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Attributable To AT&T, Net Of Tax [Member] | Noncontrolling Interest [Member] | |
Balance at beginning of year at Dec. 31, 2015 | $ 123,640 | $ 6,495 | $ 89,763 | $ 33,671 | $ (12,592) | $ 5,334 | $ 969 | |
Balance at beginning of year (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2015 | 6,495 | (350) | ||||||
Issuance of shares - common stock (value) | $ 0 | 0 | ||||||
Issuance of shares - common stock (in shares) | 0 | |||||||
Repurchase and acquisition of common stock | $ (655) | |||||||
Repurchase and acquisition of common stock (in shares) | (17) | |||||||
Issuance of treasury stock | (43) | $ 588 | ||||||
Issuance of treasury stock (in shares) | 11 | |||||||
Share-based payments | (140) | |||||||
Net income attributable to AT&T ($2.85, $4.76 and $2.10 per diluted share) | 12,976 | 12,976 | ||||||
Dividends to stockholders ($2.01, $1.97 and $1.93 per share) | (11,913) | |||||||
Other comprehensive income (loss) attributable to AT&T | (373) | (373) | ||||||
Cumulative effect of change in accounting change and other adjustments/Amounts reclassified to retained earnings | 0 | 0 | 0 | |||||
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interest | 357 | 357 | ||||||
Interest acquired by noncontrolling owners | 0 | |||||||
Acquisitions of noncontrolling interests | 0 | |||||||
Distributions | (346) | |||||||
Acquisition of interests held by noncontrolling owners | 24 | (25) | ||||||
Translation adjustments attributable to noncontrolling interest, net of taxes | 20 | 20 | ||||||
Balance at end of year at Dec. 31, 2016 | 124,110 | $ 6,495 | 89,604 | 34,734 | $ (12,659) | 4,961 | 975 | |
Balance at end of year (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2016 | 6,495 | (356) | ||||||
Issuance of shares - common stock (value) | $ 0 | 0 | ||||||
Issuance of shares - common stock (in shares) | 0 | |||||||
Repurchase and acquisition of common stock | $ (551) | |||||||
Repurchase and acquisition of common stock (in shares) | (14) | |||||||
Issuance of treasury stock | 2 | $ 496 | ||||||
Issuance of treasury stock (in shares) | 14 | |||||||
Share-based payments | (43) | |||||||
Net income attributable to AT&T ($2.85, $4.76 and $2.10 per diluted share) | 29,450 | 29,450 | ||||||
Dividends to stockholders ($2.01, $1.97 and $1.93 per share) | (12,157) | |||||||
Other comprehensive income (loss) attributable to AT&T | 527 | 527 | ||||||
Cumulative effect of change in accounting change and other adjustments/Amounts reclassified to retained earnings | 1,529 | [1] | (1,527) | 1,529 | 0 | |||
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interest | 397 | 397 | ||||||
Interest acquired by noncontrolling owners | 0 | |||||||
Acquisitions of noncontrolling interests | 140 | |||||||
Distributions | (361) | |||||||
Acquisition of interests held by noncontrolling owners | 0 | 0 | ||||||
Translation adjustments attributable to noncontrolling interest, net of taxes | (5) | (5) | ||||||
Balance at end of year at Dec. 31, 2017 | 142,007 | $ 6,495 | 89,563 | 50,500 | $ (12,714) | 7,017 | 1,146 | |
Balance at end of year (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2017 | 6,495 | (356) | ||||||
Issuance of shares - common stock (value) | $ 1,126 | 35,473 | ||||||
Issuance of shares - common stock (in shares) | 1,126 | |||||||
Repurchase and acquisition of common stock | $ (692) | |||||||
Repurchase and acquisition of common stock (in shares) | (20) | |||||||
Issuance of treasury stock | (115) | $ 1,347 | ||||||
Issuance of treasury stock (in shares) | 37 | |||||||
Share-based payments | 604 | |||||||
Net income attributable to AT&T ($2.85, $4.76 and $2.10 per diluted share) | 19,370 | 19,370 | ||||||
Dividends to stockholders ($2.01, $1.97 and $1.93 per share) | (14,117) | |||||||
Other comprehensive income (loss) attributable to AT&T | (2,110) | (2,110) | ||||||
Cumulative effect of change in accounting change and other adjustments/Amounts reclassified to retained earnings | (658) | [2] | 3,000 | (658) | 35 | |||
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interest | 583 | 583 | ||||||
Interest acquired by noncontrolling owners | 8,803 | |||||||
Acquisitions of noncontrolling interests | 1 | |||||||
Distributions | (732) | |||||||
Acquisition of interests held by noncontrolling owners | 0 | (9) | ||||||
Translation adjustments attributable to noncontrolling interest, net of taxes | (32) | (32) | ||||||
Balance at end of year at Dec. 31, 2018 | $ 193,884 | $ 7,621 | $ 125,525 | $ 58,753 | $ (12,059) | $ 4,249 | $ 9,795 | |
Balance at end of year (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2018 | 7,621 | (339) | ||||||
[1] | With the adoption of ASU 2018-02, the stranded tax effects resulting from the application of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act are reclassified to retained earnings (see Note 1). | |||||||
[2] | With the adoption of ASU 2016-01, the unrealized (gains) losses on our equity investments are reclassified to retained earnings (see Note 1). |
Consolidated Statements Of Ch_2
Consolidated Statements Of Changes In Stockholders' Equity (Parenthetical) - $ / shares | 1 Months Ended | 3 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended | ||||||||||||||||||
Dec. 31, 2018 | Dec. 31, 2017 | Dec. 31, 2018 | [1] | Sep. 30, 2018 | [1] | Jun. 30, 2018 | [1] | Mar. 31, 2018 | [1] | Dec. 31, 2017 | [1] | Sep. 30, 2017 | [1] | Jun. 30, 2017 | [1] | Mar. 31, 2017 | [1] | Dec. 31, 2018 | Dec. 31, 2017 | Dec. 31, 2016 | |
Consolidated Statements Of Changes In Stockholders' Equity | |||||||||||||||||||||
Net income attributable to AT&T, per diluted share | $ 0.66 | $ 0.65 | $ 0.81 | $ 0.75 | $ 3.08 | $ 0.49 | $ 0.63 | $ 0.56 | $ 2.85 | $ 4.76 | $ 2.1 | ||||||||||
Dividends to stockholders, per share | $ 0.51 | $ 0.5 | $ 2.01 | $ 1.97 | $ 1.93 | ||||||||||||||||
[1] | Quarterly earnings per share impacts may not add to full-year earnings per share impacts due to the difference in weighted-average common shares for the quarters versus the weighted-average common shares for the year. |
Summary Of Significant Accounti
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2018 | |
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies | |
Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block] | NOTE 1. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES Basis of Presentation Throughout this document, AT&T Inc. is referred to as “AT&T,” “we” or the “Company.” The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and our majority- owned subsidiaries and affiliates, including the results of Time Warner Inc. (referred to as “Time Warner” or “WarnerMedia”), which was acquired on June 14, 2018 (see Note 6). AT&T is a holding company whose subsidiaries and affiliates operate worldwide in the telecommunications, media and technology industries. All significant intercompany transactions are eliminated in the consolidation process. Investments in less than majority-owned subsidiaries and partnerships where we have significant influence are accounted for under the equity method. Earnings from certain investments accounted for using the equity method are included for periods ended within up to one quarter of our period end. We also record our proportionate share of our equity method investees’ other comprehensive income (OCI) items, including translation adjustments. We treat distributions received from equity method investees as returns on investment and classify them as cash flows from operating activities until those distributions exceed our cumulative equity in the earnings of that investment. We treat the excess amount as a return of investment and classify it as cash flows from investing activities. The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted account ing principles (GAAP) requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and accompanying notes, including estimates of probable losses and expenses. Actual results could differ from those est imates. Certain prior period amounts have been conformed to the current period’s presentatio n, including changes in our reportable segments (see Note 4). Adopted Accounting Standards and Other Accounting Changes Revenue Recognition As of January 1, 2018, we adopted Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) Accounting Standards Update (ASU) No. 2014-09, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606),” as modified (ASC 606), using the modified retrospective method, which does n ot allow us to adjust prior periods. We applied the rules to all open contracts existing as of January 1, 2018, recording an increase of $2,342 to retained earnings for the cumulative effect of the change, with an offsetting contract asset of $1,737, defer red contract acquisition costs of $1,454, other asset reductions of $239, other liability reductions of $212, deferred income tax liability of $787 and increase to noncontrolling interest of $35. (See Note 5 ) Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits As of January 1, 2018, we adopted, with retrospective application, ASU No. 2017-07, “Compensation – Retirement Benefits (Topic 715): Improving the Presentation of Net Periodic Pension Cost and Net Periodic Postretirement Benefit Cost” (ASU 2017-07). We a re no longer allowed to present the interest, estimated return on assets and amortization of prior service credits components of our net periodic benefit cost in our consolidated operating expenses, but rather are required to include those amounts in “othe r income (expense) – net” in our consolidated statements of income. We continue to present service costs with the associated compensation costs within our operating expenses. As a practical expedient, we used the amounts disclosed as the estimated basis fo r applying the retrospective presentation requirement. See Note 14 for our components of net periodic benefit cost. The following table presents our results under our historical method and as adjusted to reflect ASU 2017-07 (presentation of benefit cost) : Pension and Postretirement Benefits Historical Effect of Accounting Adoption of As Method ASU 2017-07 Adjusted For the year ended December 31, 2018 Consolidated Statements of Income Other cost of revenues $ 31,533 $ 1,373 $ 32,906 Selling, general and administrative expenses 32,416 4,349 36,765 Operating Income 31,818 (5,722) 26,096 Other Income (Expense) – net 1,060 5,722 6,782 Net Income 19,953 - 19,953 For the year ended December 31, 2017 Consolidated Statements of Income Other cost of revenues $ 37,511 $ 431 $ 37,942 Selling, general and administrative expenses 34,917 548 35,465 Operating Income 20,949 (979) 19,970 Other Income (Expense) – net 618 979 1,597 Net Income 29,847 - 29,847 For the year ended December 31, 2016 Consolidated Statements of Income Other cost of revenues $ 38,276 $ 306 $ 38,582 Selling, general and administrative expenses 36,347 498 36,845 Operating Income 24,347 (804) 23,543 Other Income (Expense) – net 277 804 1,081 Net Income 13,333 - 13,333 Cash Flows As of January 1, 2018, we adopted, with retrospective application, ASU No. 2016-15, “Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230): Classification of Certain Cash Receipts and Cash Payments” (ASU 2016-15). Under ASU 2016-15, we continue to recognize cash receipts on owned equipment installment receivables as cash flows from operations. However, cash receipts on the deferred pu rchase price described in Note 17 are now required to be classified as cash flows from investing activities instead of cash flo ws from operating activities. As of January 1, 2018, we adopted, with retrospective application, ASU No. 2016-18, “Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230) – Restricted Cash,” (ASU 2016-18). The primary impact of ASU 2016-18 was to require us to include restri cted cash in our reconciliation of beginning and ending cash and cash equivalents (restricted and unrestricted) on the face of our consolidated statem ents of cash flows. (See Note 21 ) The following table presents our results under our historical method an d as adjusted to reflect ASU 2016-15 (cash receipts on deferred purchase price) and ASU 2016-18 (restricted cash) : Cash Flows Historical Effect of Effect of Accounting Adoption of Adoption of As Method ASU 2016-15 ASU 2016-18 Adjusted For the year ended December 31, 2018 Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows Changes in other current assets $ (6,446) $ - $ 4 $ (6,442) Equipment installment receivables and related sales 10 (500) - (490) Other – net 3,520 - (129) 3,391 Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities 44,227 (500) (125) 43,602 (Purchases) sales of securities – net 7 - (192) (185) Cash collections of deferred purchase price - 500 - 500 Cash (Used in) Provided by Investing Activities (63,453) 500 (192) (63,145) Change in cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash (45,215) - (317) (45,532) For the year ended December 31, 2017 Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows Changes in other current assets $ (777) $ - $ (1) $ (778) Equipment installment receivables and related sales (263) (976) - (1,239) Other – net (1,151) - (164) (1,315) Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities 39,151 (976) (165) 38,010 (Purchases) sales of securities – net (4) - 453 449 Cash collections of deferred purchase price - 976 - 976 Cash (Used in) Provided by Investing Activities (20,372) 976 453 (18,943) Change in cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash 44,710 - 287 44,997 For the year ended December 31, 2016 Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows Changes in other current assets $ 1,708 $ - $ 1 $ 1,709 Equipment installment receivables and related sales (576) (731) - (1,307) Other – net (2,414) - (172) (2,586) Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities 39,344 (731) (171) 38,442 (Purchases) sales of securities – net 506 - 166 672 Cash collections of deferred purchase price - 731 - 731 Cash (Used in) Provided by Investing Activities (24,215) 731 166 (23,318) Change in cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash 667 - (5) 662 Financial Instruments As of January 1, 2018, we adopted ASU No. 2016-01, “Financial Instruments – Overall (Subtopic 825-10): Recognition and Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities” (ASU 2016-01), which requires us to prospectively record changes in the fair value of our equity investments, except for those accounted for under the equity method, in net income instead of in accumulated other comprehensive income. As of January 1, 2018, we recorded an increase of $658 in retained earni ngs for the cumulative effect of the adoption of ASU 2016-01, with an offset to accumulated other comprehensive income (accumulated OCI). Customer Fulfillment Costs During the second quarter of 2018, we updated our analysis of economic lives of customer relationships. As of April 1, 2018, we extended the amortization period to 58 months to better reflect the estimated economic lives of our Entertainment Group customers. This change in accounting estimate decreased other cost of revenues, which had an impa ct on net income of $338, or $0.05 per diluted share, in 2018. Income Taxes We record deferred income taxes for temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes and the computed tax basis of th ose assets and liabilities. We record valuation allowances against the deferred tax assets (included, together with our deferred income tax assets, as part of our reportable net deferred income tax liabilities on our consolidated balance sheets), for which the realization is uncertain. We review these items regularly in light of changes in federal and state tax laws and changes in our business. The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (the Act) was enacted on December 22, 2017. The Act reduced the U.S. federal corporate income tax rate from 35% to 21% and required companies to pay a one-time transition tax on earnings of certain foreign subsidiaries that were previously tax deferred. Recognizing the late enactment of the Act and complexity of accurately accounting for its impact, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) in Staff Accounting Bulletin (SAB) 118 provided guidance that allowed registrants to provide a reasonable estimate of the impact to their financial statements and adjust the reported impact in a measure ment period not to exceed one year. We included the estimated impact of the Act in our financial results at or for the period ended December 31, 2017, with additional adjustments recorded in 2018. (See Note 13) In February 2018, the FASB issued ASU No. 20 18-02, “Income Statement– Reporting Comprehensive Income (Topic 220): Reclassification of Certain Tax Effects from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income” (ASU 2018-02), which allows entities the option to reclassify from accumulated other comprehensive i ncome (accumulated OCI) to retained earnings the stranded tax effects resulting from the application of the Act. We elected to adopt ASU 2018-02 in the period in which the estimated income tax effects of the Act were recognized, reflecting a $1,529 adjustm ent for 2017 in the consolidated statements of changes in stockholders’ equity. (See Note 3) Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and cash equivalents include all highly liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less. The carrying amounts approximate fair value. At December 31, 2018 , we held $3,130 in cash and $2,074 in money market funds and other cash equivalents. Of our total cash and cash equivalents, $1,930 resided in foreign jurisdictions, some of which is subject to restrictions on repatriation. Allowance for Doubtful Accounts We record expense to maintain an allowance for doubtful accounts for estimated losses that result from the failure or inability of our customers to make required payments deemed collectible from the customer when the service was provided or product was delivered. When determining the allowance, we consider the probability of recoverability of accounts receivable based on past experience , taking into account current collection tren ds as well as general economic factors, including bankruptcy rates. Credit risks are assessed based on historical write-offs, net of recoveries, as well as an analysis of the aged accounts receivable balances with allowances generally increasing as the rec eivable ages. Accounts receivable may be fully reserved for when specific collection issues are known to exist, such as catastrophes or pending bankruptcies. Equipment Inventory Equipment inventories, which primarily consist of wireless devices and acces sories, are included in “Other current assets” on our consolidated balance sheets. Equipment inventories are valued at the lower of cost or net realizable value and were $2,771 at December 31, 2018 and $2,225 at December 31, 2017 . Licensed Programming Inventory Cost Recognition and Impairment We enter into agreements to license programming exhibition rights from licensors. A programming inventory asset related to these rights and a corresponding liability payable to the licensor are recorded (on a discounted basis if the license agreements are long-term) when (i) the cost of the programming is reasonably determined, (ii) the programming material has been accepted in accordance with t he terms of the agreement, (iii) the programming is available for its first showing or telecast, and (iv) the license period has commenced. There are variations in the amortization methods of these rights, depending on whether the network is advertising-su pported (e.g., TNT and TBS) or not advertising-supported (e.g., HBO and Turner Classic Movies). For the advertising-supported networks, our general policy is to amortize each program’s costs on a straight-line basis (or per-play basis, if greater) over i ts license period. In circumstances where the initial airing of the program has more value than subsequent airings, an accelerated method of amortization is used. The accelerated amortization upon the first airing versus subsequent airings is determined ba sed on a study of historical and estimated future advertising sales for similar programming. For rights fees paid for sports programming arrangements, such rights fees are amortized using a revenue-forecast model, in which the rights fees are amortized usi ng the ratio of current period advertising revenue to total estimated remaining advertising revenue over the term of the arrangement. For premium pay television and over-the-top (OTT) services that are not advertising-supported, each licensed program’s c osts are amortized on a straight-line basis over its license period or estimated period of use, beginning with the month of initial exhibition. When we have the right to exhibit feature theatrical programming in multiple windows over a number of years, his torical audience viewership is used as the basis for determining the amount of programming amortization attributable to each window. Licensed programming inventory, which is included in “Other current assets” and “Noncurrent inventories and theatrical fi lm and television production costs” on our consolidated balance sheet, is carried at the lower of unamortized cost or estimated net realizable value. For networks that generate both advertising and subscription revenues, the net realizable value of unamort ized programming costs is generally evaluated based on the network’s programming taken as a whole . In assessing whether the programming inventory for a particular advertising-supported network is impaired, the net realizable value for all of the network’s programming inventory is determined based on a projection of the network’s profitability. This assessment would occur upon the occurrence of certain triggering events. Similarly, for premium pay television and OTT services that are not advertising-supporte d, an evaluation of the net realizable value of unamortized programming costs is performed based on the premium pay television and OTT services’ licensed programming taken as a whole . Specifically, the net realizable value for all premium pay television an d OTT service licensed programming is determined based on projections of estimated subscription revenues less certain costs of delivering and distributing the licensed programming. Changes in management’s intended usage of a specific program, such as a dec ision to no longer exhibit that program and forgo the use of the rights associated with the program license, results in a reassessment of that program’s net realizable value, which could result in an impairment. (See Note 10) Film and Television Productio n Cost Recognition, Participations and Residuals and Impairments Film and television production costs, which are part of “Other current assets” and “Noncurrent inventories and theatrical film and television production costs” on our consolidated balance she et, include the unamortized cost of completed theatrical films and television episodes, theatrical films and television series in production and undeveloped film and television rights. Film and television production costs are stated at the lower of cost, l ess accumulated amortization, or fair value. The amount of capitalized film and television production costs and the amount of participations and residuals to be recognized as broadcast, programming and operations expenses for a given film or television ser ies in a particular period is determined using the film forecast computation method. Under this method, the amortization of capitalized costs and the accrual of participations and residuals is based on the proportion of the film’s revenues recognized for s uch period to the film’s estimated remaining ultimate revenues (i.e., the total revenue to be received throughout a film’s life cycle). Under current GAAP, the amount of capitalized television production costs cannot exceed contracted revenues for a given television series. The process of estimating a film’s ultimate revenues requires us to make a series of judgments related to future revenue-generating activities associated with a particular film . We estimate the ultimate revenues, less additional costs to be incurred (including exploitation and participation costs), in order to determine whether the value of a film or television series is impaired and requires an immediate write-off of unrecoverable film and television production costs. To the extent tha t the ultimate revenues are adjusted, the resulting gross margin reported on the exploitation of that film or television series in a period is also adjusted. Prior to the theatrical release of a film, our estimates are based on factors such as the historical performance of similar films, the star power of the lead actors, the rating and genre of the film, pre-release market research (including test market screenings), international distribution plans and the expected number of theaters in which the film will be released. In the absence of revenues directly related to the exhibition of owned film or television programs on our television networks, premium pay television or OTT services, we estimate a portion of the unamortized costs that are representa tive of the utilization of that film or television program in that exhibition and expense such costs as the film or television program is exhibited. The period over which ultimate revenues are estimated is generally not to exceed ten years from the initial release of a motion picture or from the date of delivery of the first episode of an episodic television series. Estimates are updated based on information available during the film’s production and, upon release, the actual results of each film. Property , Plant and Equipment Property , plant and equipment is stated at cost, except for assets acquired using acquisition accounting, which are initially recorded at fair value (see Note 7 ). The cost of additions and substantial improvements to property, plant and equipment is capitalized, and includes internal compens ation costs for these projects. The cost of maintenance and repairs of property, plant and equipment is charged to operating expenses. Property, plant and equipment costs are depreciated using stra ight-line methods over their estimated economic lives. Certain subsidiaries follow composite group depreciation methodology. Accordingly, when a portion of their depreciable property, plant and equipment is retired in the ordinary course of business, the g ross book value is reclassified to accumulated depreciation, and no gain or loss is recognized on the disposition of these assets. Property, plant and equipment is reviewed for recoverability whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the c arrying amount of an asset group may not be recoverable. We recognize an impairment loss when the carrying amount of a long-lived asset is not recoverable. The carrying amount of a long-lived asset is not recoverable if it exceeds the sum of the undiscount ed cash flows expected to result from the use and eventual disposition of the asset. See Note 7 for a discussion of asset abandonments and impairments. The liability for the fair value of an asset retirement obligation is recorded in the period in which i t is incurred if a reasonable estimate of fair value can be made. In periods subsequent to initial measurement, we recognize period-to-period changes in the liability resulting from the passage of time and revisions to either the timing or the amount of th e original estimate. The increase in the carrying value of the associated long-lived asset is depreciated over the corresponding estimated economic life. Software Costs We capitalize certain costs incurred in connection with developing or obtaining inter nal-use software. Capitalized software costs are included in “Property, Plant and Equipment” on our consolidated balance sheets. In addition, there is certain network software that allows the equipment to provide the features and functions unique to the AT &T network, which we include in the cost of the equipment categories for financial reporting purposes. We amortize our capitalized software costs over a three-year to seven -year period, reflecting the estimated period during which these asset s will remain in service . Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets We have the following major classes of intangible assets: goodwill; licenses, which include Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and other wireless licenses and orbital slots; distribution networks; fi lm and television libraries; intellectual properties and franchises; trademarks and trade names ; customer lists; and various other finite-lived intangible assets (see Note 8 ). Goodwill represents the excess of consideration paid over the fair value of ide ntifiable net assets acquired in business combinations. Wireless licenses (including FCC licenses) provide us with the exclusive right to utilize certain radio frequency spectrum to provide wireless communications services. While wireless licenses are issu ed for a fi xed period of time (generally ten years), renewals of wireless licenses have occurred routinely and at nominal cost. Moreover, we have determined that there are currently no legal, regulatory, contractual, competitive, economic or other factors that limit the useful lives of our wireless licenses. Orbital slots represent the space in which we operate the broadcast satellites that support our digital video entertainment service offerings. Similar to our wi reless licenses, there are limited factors that limit the useful lives of our orbital slots. We acquired the rights to the AT&T and other trade names in previous acquisitions , classifying certain of those trade names as indefinite lived . We have the effective ability to retain these exclusive righ ts permanently at a nominal cost. Goodwill, licenses and other indefinite-lived intangible assets are not amortized but are tested at least annually for impairment. The testing is performed on the value as of October 1 each year, and compares the book val ue s of the assets to their fair value s . Goodwill is tested by comparing the book value of each reporting unit, deemed to be our principal operating segments or one leve l below them , to the fair value using both discounted cash flow as well as market multip le approaches. Wireless licenses are tested on an aggregate basis, consistent with our use of the licenses on a national scope, using a discounted cash flow approach. Orbital slots are similarly aggregated for purposes of impairment testing. Trade names ar e tested by comparing the ir book value s to their fair value s calculated using a discounted cash flow approach on a presumed royalty rate derived from the revenues related to each brand name. Intangible assets that have finite useful lives are amortized ov er their useful lives (see Note 8 ). Customer lists and relationships are amortized using primarily the sum-of-the-months-digits method of amortization over the period in which those relationships are expected to contribute to our future cash flows. Finite-lived trademarks and trade names and distribution networks are amortized using the straight-line method over the estimated useful life of the assets. Film library is amortized using the film forecast computation method, as previously disclosed. The remaining finite-lived intangible assets are generally amortized using the straight-line method. Advertising Costs We expense advertising costs for products and services or for promoting our corporate image as we incur them (see Note 21 ). Foreign Curren cy Translation Our foreign subsidiaries and foreign investments generally report their earnings in their local currencies. We translate their foreign assets and liabilities at exchange rates in effect at the balance sheet dates. We translate their revenue s and expenses using average rates during the year. The resulting foreign currency translation adjustments are recorded as a separate component of accumulated OCI in our consolidated balance sheets (see Note 3). Operations in countries with highly inflatio nary economies consider the U.S. dollar as the functional currency. We hedge a portion of the foreign currency exchange risk involved in certain foreign currency-denominated transactions, which we explain further in our discussion of our methods of managi ng our foreign currency r isk (see Note 12 ). Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits See Note 14 for a comprehensive discussion of our pension and postretirement benefit expense, including a discussion of the actuarial assumptions, our policy for recognizing the associated gains and losses and our method used to estimate service and interest cost com ponents. New Accounting Standards Leases Beginning with 2019 interim reporting, we will adopt ASU No. 2016-02, “Leases (Topic 842),” as modified ( ASC 842 ), which replaces existing leasing rules with a comprehensive lease measurement and recognition standard and expanded disclosure requirements. ASC 842 requires lessees to recognize most leases on their balance sheets as liabilities, with corresponding “rig ht-of-use” assets. For income statement recognition purposes, leases will be classified as either a finance or an operating lease without relying upon the bright-line tests under current GAAP. The key change upon adoption of the standard will be balance s heet recognition, as the recognition of lease expense on our income statement will be similar to our c urrent accounting. We will adopt the new leasing standard using a modified retrospective transition method as of the beginning of the period of adoption; therefore, we will not adjust the balance sheet for comparative periods but will record a cumulative effect adjustment to retained earnings on January 1, 2019. We will elect the package of practical expedients permitted under the transition guidance within the new standard, which, among other things, allows us to carry forward our historical lease classification. We will also elect the practical expedient related to land easements, allowing us to carry forward our current accounting treatment for land easemen ts on existing agreements that were not accounted for as leases. We will exclude all the leases with original maturities of one year or less. Additionally, we have elected to not separate lease and non-lease components for certain classes of assets in arra ngements where we are the lessee and for certain classes of assets where we are the lessor. We do not expect our accounting for finance leases to change from our current accounting for capital leases. We have estimated the adoption will result in a right -of-use asset and corresponding lease liability on our consolidated balance sheet in the range of $20,000 to $25,000. We do not believe the standard will materially impact the income statement or have a notable impact on our liquidity. The standard will ha ve no impact on our debt-covenant compliance under our current agreements. |
Earnings Per Share
Earnings Per Share | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2018 | |
Earnings Per Share | |
Earnings Per Share [Text Block] | NOTE 2. EARNINGS PER SHARE A reconciliation of the numerators and denominators of basic and diluted earnings per share is shown in the table below : Year Ended December 31, 2018 2017 2016 Numerators Numerator for basic earnings per share: Net income $ 19,953 $ 29,847 $ 13,333 Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interest (583) (397) (357) Net income attributable to AT&T 19,370 29,450 12,976 Dilutive potential common shares: Share-based payment 19 13 13 Numerator for diluted earnings per share $ 19,389 $ 29,463 $ 12,989 Denominators (000,000) Denominator for basic earnings per share: Weighted-average number of common shares outstanding 6,778 6,164 6,168 Dilutive potential common shares: Share-based payment (in shares) 28 19 21 Denominator for diluted earnings per share 6,806 6,183 6,189 Basic earnings per share attributable to AT&T $ 2.85 $ 4.77 $ 2.10 Diluted earnings per share attributable to AT&T $ 2.85 $ 4.76 $ 2.10 |
Accumulated Other Comprehensive
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2018 | |
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Abstract] | |
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Text Block] | NOTE 3. OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME Changes in the balances of each component included in accumulated OCI are presented below. All amounts are net of tax and exclude noncontrolling interest. Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment Net Unrealized Gains (Losses) on Available-for-Sale Securities Net Unrealized Gains (Losses) on Cash Flow Hedges Defined Benefit Postretirement Plans Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Balance as of December 31, 2015 $ (1,198) $ 484 $ 16 $ 6,032 $ 5,334 Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications (797) 58 690 497 448 Amounts reclassified from accumulated OCI - 1 (1) 1 38 2 (858) 3 (821) Net other comprehensive income (loss) (797) 57 728 (361) (373) Balance as of December 31, 2016 (1,995) 541 744 5,671 4,961 Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications 20 187 371 1,083 1,661 Amounts reclassified from accumulated OCI - 1 (185) 1 39 2 (988) 3 (1,134) Net other comprehensive income (loss) 20 2 410 95 527 Amounts reclassified to retained earnings 4 (79) 117 248 1,243 1,529 Balance as of December 31, 2017 (2,054) 660 1,402 7,009 7,017 Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications (1,030) (4) (597) 830 (801) Amounts reclassified from accumulated OCI - 1 - 1 13 2 (1,322) 3 (1,309) Net other comprehensive income (loss) (1,030) (4) (584) (492) (2,110) Amounts reclassified to retained earnings 5 - (658) - - (658) Balance as of December 31, 2018 $ (3,084) $ (2) $ 818 $ 6,517 $ 4,249 1 (Gains) losses are included in Other income (expense) - net in the consolidated statements of income. 2 (Gains) losses are included in Interest expense in the consolidated statements of income (see Note 12). 3 The amortization of prior service credits associated with postretirement benefits are included in Other income (expense) in the consolidated statements of income (see Note 14). 4 With the adoption of ASU 2018-02, the stranded tax effects resulting from the application of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act are reclassified to retained earnings (see Note 1). 5 With the adoption of ASU 2016-01, the unrealized (gains) losses on our equity investments are reclassified to retained earnings (see Note 1). |
Segment Information
Segment Information | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2018 | |
Segment Information | |
Segment Information [Text Block] | NOTE 4. SEGMENT INFORMATION Our segments are strategic business units that offer products and services to different customer segments over various technology platforms and/or in different geographies that are managed accordingly. We analyze our segments based on segment operating contribution, which consists of operating income, excluding acquisition-related costs and other significant items (as discussed below), and equity in net income (loss) of affiliates for investments managed within each segment. We have four reportable segments: (1) Communications, (2) WarnerMedia, (3) Latin America, and (4) Xandr. We also evaluate segment and business unit performance based on EBITDA and/or EBITDA margin, which is defined as operating contribution excluding equity in net income (loss) of affiliates and depreciation and amortization. We believe EBITDA to be a relevant and useful measurement to our investors as it is part of our internal management reporting and planning processes and it is an important metric that m anagement uses to evaluate operating performance. EBITDA does not give effect to cash used for debt service requirements and thus does not reflect available funds for distributions, reinvestment or other discretionary uses. EBITDA margin is EBITDA divided by total revenues. Due to organizational changes in 2018, including our June 14, 2018 acquisition of Time Warner, we revised our operating segments to align with the new management structure and organizational responsibilities, and have accordingly recast our segment disclosures for all periods presented. With our acquisition of Time Warner, programming released on or before the June 14, 2018 acquisition date was recorded at fair value as an intangible asset (see Note 6). For consolidated reporting, all amortization of pre-acquisition released programming is reported as amortization expense on our consolidated income statement. To best present comparable results, we report the historical content production cost amortization as operations and support expe nse within the WarnerMedia segment. For the 200-day period ended December 31, 2018, historical content production cost amortization reported in the segment results was $3,314, of which $1,416 was for pre-acquisition released programming. The Communication s segment provides wireless and wireline telecom, video and broadband services to consumers located in the U.S. or in U.S. territories and businesses globally. This segment contains the following business units: Mobility provides nationwide wireless servic e and equipment. Entertainment Group provides video, including OTT services, broadband and voice communications services primarily to residential customers. This segment also sells advertising on DIRECTV and U-verse distribution platforms. Business Wirel ine provides advanced IP-based services, as well as traditional voice and data services to business customers. The WarnerMedia segment develops, produces and distributes feature films, television, gaming and other content in various physical and digital formats globally. Historical financial results from AT&T’s Regional Sports Networks (RSN) and equity investments (predominantly Game Show Network and Otter Media), previously included in Entertainment Group, have been reclassified into the WarnerMedia segm ent and are combined with the Time Warner operations for the period subsequent to our acquisition on June 14, 2018. This segment contains the following business units: Turner is comprised of the historic Turner division as well as the financial results of our RSN. This business unit primarily operates multichannel basic television networks and digital properties. Turner also sells advertising on its networks and digital properties. Home Box Office consists of premium pay television and OTT services domestic ally and premium pay, basic tier television and OTT services internationally, as well as content licensing and home entertainment. Warner Bros. consists of the production, distribution and licensing of television programming and feature films, the distribu tion of home entertainment products and the production and distribution of games. The Latin America segment provides entertainment and wireless services outside of the U.S. This segment contains the following business units: Vrio provides video services primarily to residential customers using satellite technology. Mexico provides wireless service and equipment to customers in Mexico. The Xandr segment provides advertising services and includes our recently acquired AppNexus. These services utilize data insights to develop higher-value targeted advertising. Certain revenues in this segment are also reported by the Communications segment and are eliminated upon consolidation . Corporate and Other reconcile our segment results to consolidated operating inco me and income before income taxes, and include: Corporate , which consists of: (1) businesses no longer integral to our operations or which we no longer actively market, (2) corporate support functions, (3) impacts of corporate-wide decisions for which the individual operating segments are not being evaluated, (4) the reclassification of the amortization of prior service credits, which we continue to report with segment operating expenses, to consolidated other income (expense) and (5) the recharacterization of programming intangible asset amortization, for released programming acquired in the Time Warner acquisition, which we continue to report within WarnerMedia segment operating expense, to consolidated amortization expense. Acquisition-related items whic h consists of items associated with the merger and integration of acquired businesses, including amortization of intangible assets. Certain significant items includes (1) employee separation charges associated with voluntary and/or strategic offers, (2) lo sses resulting from abandonment or impairment of assets and (3) other items for which the segments are not being evaluated. Eliminations and consolidations , which (1) removes transactions involving dealings between our segments, including content licensing between WarnerMedia and Communications, and (2) includes adjustments for our reporting of the advertising business. I nterest expense and other income (expense) – net, are managed only on a total company basis and are, accordingly, reflected only in conso lidated results. For the year ended December 31, 2018 Revenues Operations and Support Expenses EBITDA Depreciation and Amortization Operating Income (Loss) Equity in Net Income (Loss) of Affiliates Segment Contribution Communications Mobility $ 71,344 $ 41,266 $ 30,078 $ 8,355 $ 21,723 $ (1) $ 21,722 Entertainment Group 46,460 36,430 10,030 5,315 4,715 (2) 4,713 Business Wireline 26,827 16,245 10,582 4,754 5,828 (1) 5,827 Total Communications 144,631 93,941 50,690 18,424 32,266 (4) 32,262 WarnerMedia Turner 6,979 3,794 3,185 131 3,054 54 3,108 Home Box Office 3,598 2,187 1,411 56 1,355 29 1,384 Warner Bros. 8,703 7,130 1,573 96 1,477 (28) 1,449 Other (339) (145) (194) 22 (216) (30) (246) Total WarnerMedia 18,941 12,966 5,975 305 5,670 25 5,695 Latin America Vrio 4,784 3,743 1,041 728 313 34 347 Mexico 2,868 3,415 (547) 510 (1,057) - (1,057) Total Latin America 7,652 7,158 494 1,238 (744) 34 (710) Xandr 1,740 398 1,342 9 1,333 - 1,333 Segment Total 172,964 114,463 58,501 19,976 38,525 $ 55 $ 38,580 Corporate and Other Corporate 1,240 1,630 (390) 1,498 (1,888) Acquisition-related items (49) 1,185 (1,234) 6,931 (8,165) Certain significant items - 899 (899) 26 (925) Eliminations and consolidations (3,399) (1,947) (1,452) (1) (1,451) AT&T Inc. $ 170,756 $ 116,230 $ 54,526 $ 28,430 $ 26,096 For the year ended December 31, 2017 Revenues Operations and Support Expenses EBITDA Depreciation and Amortization Operating Income (Loss) Equity in Net Income (Loss) of Affiliates Segment Contribution Communications Mobility $ 71,090 $ 42,871 $ 28,219 $ 8,015 $ 20,204 $ - $ 20,204 Entertainment Group 49,995 38,903 11,092 5,621 5,471 - 5,471 Business Wireline 29,293 18,492 10,801 4,789 6,012 (2) 6,010 Total Communications 150,378 100,266 50,112 18,425 31,687 (2) 31,685 WarnerMedia Turner 430 331 99 4 95 45 140 Home Box Office - - - - - - - Warner Bros. - - - - - - - Other - 4 (4) - (4) (74) (78) Total WarnerMedia 430 335 95 4 91 (29) 62 Latin America Vrio 5,456 4,172 1,284 849 435 87 522 Mexico 2,813 3,232 (419) 369 (788) - (788) Total Latin America 8,269 7,404 865 1,218 (353) 87 (266) Xandr 1,373 169 1,204 2 1,202 - 1,202 Segment Total 160,450 108,174 52,276 19,649 32,627 $ 56 $ 32,683 Corporate and Other Corporate 1,522 3,306 (1,784) 97 (1,881) Acquisition-related items - 798 (798) 4,608 (5,406) Certain significant items (243) 3,880 (4,123) 33 (4,156) Eliminations and consolidations (1,183) 31 (1,214) - (1,214) AT&T Inc. $ 160,546 $ 116,189 $ 44,357 $ 24,387 $ 19,970 For the year ended December 31, 2016 Revenues Operations and Support Expenses EBITDA Depreciation and Amortization Operating Income (Loss) Equity in Net Income (Loss) of Affiliates Segment Contribution Communications Mobility $ 72,587 $ 43,567 $ 29,020 $ 8,277 $ 20,743 $ - $ 20,743 Entertainment Group 50,660 38,909 11,751 5,861 5,890 8 5,898 Business Wireline 30,985 19,954 11,031 5,235 5,796 - 5,796 Total Communications 154,232 102,430 51,802 19,373 32,429 8 32,437 WarnerMedia Turner 418 318 100 5 95 52 147 Home Box Office - - - - - - - Warner Bros. - - - - - - - Other - - - - - (51) (51) Total WarnerMedia 418 318 100 5 95 1 96 Latin America Vrio 4,910 3,847 1,063 834 229 52 281 Mexico 2,373 2,983 (610) 332 (942) - (942) Total Latin America 7,283 6,830 453 1,166 (713) 52 (661) Xandr 1,333 99 1,234 1 1,233 - 1,233 Segment Total 163,266 109,677 53,589 20,545 33,044 $ 61 $ 33,105 Corporate and Other Corporate 1,754 3,458 (1,704) 97 (1,801) Acquisition-related items - 1,203 (1,203) 5,177 (6,380) Certain significant items (23) 35 (58) 29 (87) Eliminations and consolidations (1,211) 23 (1,234) (1) (1,233) AT&T Inc. $ 163,786 $ 114,396 $ 49,390 $ 25,847 $ 23,543 The following table is a reconciliation of operating income (loss) to Income Before Income Taxes reported in our consolidated statements of income: 2018 2017 2016 Communications $ 32,262 $ 31,685 $ 32,437 WarnerMedia 5,695 62 96 Latin America (710) (266) (661) Xandr 1,333 1,202 1,233 Segment Contribution 38,580 32,683 33,105 Reconciling Items: Corporate and Other (1,888) (1,881) (1,801) Merger and integration items (1,234) (798) (1,203) Amortization of intangibles acquired (6,931) (4,608) (5,177) Employee separation charges (587) (445) (344) Gain on wireless spectrum transactions - 181 714 Natural disaster items (181) (626) (67) Impairments and other charges (157) (3,046) (390) Tax reform special bonus - (220) - Segment equity in net income of affiliates (55) (56) (61) Eliminations and consolidations (1,451) (1,214) (1,233) AT&T Operating Income 26,096 19,970 23,543 Interest Expense 7,957 6,300 4,910 Equity in net income (loss) of affiliates (48) (128) 98 Other income (expense) - Net 6,782 1,597 1,081 Income Before Income Taxes $ 24,873 $ 15,139 $ 19,812 The following table sets forth revenues earned from customers, and property, plant and equipment located in different geographic areas. 2018 2017 2016 Revenues Net Property, Plant & Equipment Revenues Net Property, Plant & Equipment Revenues Net Property, Plant & Equipment United States $ 154,795 $ 123,457 $ 149,841 $ 118,200 $ 154,039 $ 118,664 Europe 4,073 1,634 1,064 392 1,122 374 Mexico 3,100 3,467 2,913 3,619 2,472 2,520 Brazil 2,724 1,213 2,948 1,447 2,797 1,265 Asia/Pacific Rim 2,214 408 829 194 817 189 All other Latin America 3,055 1,217 2,743 1,294 2,348 1,828 Other 795 77 208 76 191 59 Total $ 170,756 $ 131,473 $ 160,546 $ 125,222 $ 163,786 $ 124,899 The following tables present intersegment revenues, assets, investments in equity affiliates and capital expenditures by segment Intersegment Reconciliation 2018 2017 2016 Intersegment revenues Communications $ 13 $ - $ - WarnerMedia 1,875 134 134 Latin America - - - Xandr - - - Total Intersegment Revenues 1,888 134 134 Consolidations 1,511 1,049 1,077 Eliminations and consolidations $ 3,399 $ 1,183 $ 1,211 Investments in Equity Method Investees Capital Expenditures At or for the year ended December 31, 2018 Assets Communications $ 485,360 $ 3 $ 19,509 WarnerMedia 132,453 5,547 581 Latin America 18,148 677 745 Xandr 2,718 - 106 Corporate and eliminations (106,815) 18 310 Total $ 531,864 $ 6,245 $ 21,251 |
Revenue Recognition
Revenue Recognition | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2018 | |
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract] | |
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Text Block] | NOTE 5 . REVENUE RECOGNITION As of January 1, 2018, we adopted ASC 606. With our adoption of ASC 606, we made a policy election to record certain regulatory fees, primarily Universal Service Fund (USF) fees, on a net basis. We report our revenues net of sales taxes. When implementing ASC 606, we utilized the practical expedient allowing us to reflect the aggregate effect of all contract modifications occurring before the beginning of the earliest period presented when allocating the transaction price to performance obligations. Wireless, Advanced Data, Legacy Voice & Data Services and Equipment Revenue We offer service-only contracts and contracts that bundle equipment used to access the services and/or with other service offerings. Some contracts have f ixed terms and others are cancellable on a short-term basis (i.e., month-to-month arrangements). Examples of service revenues include wireless, video entertainment (e.g., AT&T U-verse and DIRECTV), strategic services (e.g., virtual private network servic e), and legacy voice and data (e.g., traditional local and long-distance). These services represent a series of distinct services that is considered a separate performance obligation. Service revenue is recognized when services are provided, based upon eit her usage (e.g., minutes of traffic/bytes of data processed) or period of time (e.g., monthly service fees). Some of our services require customer premises equipment that, when combined and integrated with AT&T’s specific network infrastructure, facilitat e the delivery of service to the customer. In evaluating whether the equipment is a separate performance obligation, we consider the customer’s ability to benefit from the equipment on its own or together with other readily available resources and if so, w hether the service and equipment are separately identifiable (i.e., is the service highly dependent on, or highly interrelated with the equipment). When the equipment does not meet the criteria to be a distinct performance obligation (e.g., equipment assoc iated with certain video services), we allocate the total transaction price to the related service. When equipment is a distinct performance obligation, we record the sale of equipment when title has passed and the products are accepted by the customer. Fo r devices sold through indirect channels (e.g., national dealers), revenue is recognized when the dealer accepts the device, not upon activation. Our equipment and service revenues are predominantly recognized on a gross basis, as most of our services do not involve a third party and we typically control the equipment that is sold to our customers. Revenue recognized from fixed term contracts that bund le services and/or equipment is allocated based on the standalone selling price of all required perform ance obligations of the contract (i.e., each item included in the bundle). Promotional discounts are attributed to each required component of the arrangement, resulting in recognition over the contract term. Standalone selling prices are determined by asse ssing prices paid for service-only contracts (e.g., arrangements where customers bring their own devices) and standalone device pricing. We offer the majority of our customers the option to purchase certain wireless devices in installments over a specifi ed period of time, and, in many cases, they may be eligible to trade in the original equipment for a new device and have the remaining unpaid balance paid or settled. For customers that elect these equipment installment payment programs, at the point of sa le, we recognize revenue for the entire amount of revenue allocated to the customer receivable net of fair value of the trade-in right guarantee. The difference between the revenue recognized and the consideration received is recorded as a note receivable when the devices are not discounted and our right to consideration is unconditional. When installment sales include promotional discounts (e.g., “buy one get one free”), the difference between revenue recognized and consideration received is recorded as a contract asset to be amortized over the contract term. Less commonly, we offer certain customers highly discounted devices when they enter into a minimum service agreement term. For these contracts, we recognize equipment revenue at the point of sale base d on a standalone selling price allocation. The difference between the revenue recognized and the cash received is recorded as a contract asset that will amortize over the contract term. Our contracts allow for customers to frequently modify their arrange ment, without incurring penalties in many cases. When a contract is modified, we evaluate the change in scope or price of the contract to determine if the modification should be treated as a new contract or if it should be considered a change of the existi ng contract. We generally do not have significant impacts from contract modifications. Revenues from transactions between us and our customers are recorded net of revenue-based regulatory fees and taxes. Cash incentives given to customers are recorded as a reduction of revenue. N onrefundable, upfront service activation and setup fees associated with service arrangements are deferred and recognized over the associated service contract period or customer life. Subscription Revenue Subscription revenues fro m cable networks and premium pay and basic- tier television services are recognized over the license period as programming is provided to affiliates or digital distributors based on negotiated contractual programming rates. When a distribution contract with an affiliate has expired and a new distribution contract has not been executed, revenues are based on estimated rates, giving consideration to factors including the previous contractual rates, inflation, current payments by the affiliate and the status of the negotiations on a new contract. When the new distribution contract terms are finalized, an adjustment to revenue is recorded, if necessary, to reflect the new terms. Subscription revenues from end-user subscribers are recognized when services are pr ovided, based upon either usage or period of time. Subscription revenues from OTT services are recognized as programming services are provided to customers. Content Revenue Feature films typically are produced or acquired for initial exhibition in theaters, followed by distribution, generally commencing within three years of such initial exhibition. Revenues from film rentals by theaters are recognized as the films are exhibited. Television programs and series are initially produced for broadcast and may be subsequently licensed or sold in physical format and/or electronic delivery. Revenues from the distribution of television programming through broadcast networks, cable networks, first-run syndication and OTT services are recognized when the prog rams or series are available to the licensee. In certain circumstances, pursuant to the terms of the applicable contractual arrangements, the availability dates granted to customers may precede the date in which the customer can be billed for these sales. Revenues from sales of feature films and television programming in physical format are recognized at the later of the delivery date or the date when made widely available for sale or rental by retailers based on gross sales less a provision for estimated returns, rebates and pricing allowances. Revenues from the licensing of television programs and series for electronic sell-through or video-on-demand are recognized when the product has been purchased by and made available to the consumer to either downlo ad or stream. Upfront or guaranteed payments for the licensing of intellectual property are recognized as revenue at either the inception of the license term if the intellectual property has significant standalone functionality or over the corresponding l icense term if the licensee’s ability to derive utility is dependent on our continued support of the intellectual property throughout the license term. Revenues from the sales of console games are recognized at the later of the delivery date or the date t hat the product is made widely available for sale or rental by retailers based on gross sales less a provision for estimated returns, rebates and pricing allowances. Advertising Revenue Advertising revenues are recognized, net of agency commissions, in th e period that the advertisements are aired. If there is a targeted audience guarantee, revenues are recognized for the actual audience delivery and revenues are deferred for any shortfall until the guaranteed audience delivery is met, typically by providin g additional advertisements. Advertising revenues from digital properties are recognized as impressions are delivered or the services are performed. Revenue Categories The following table sets forth reported revenue by category: For the year ended December 31, 2018 Service Revenues Wireless Advanced Data Legacy Voice & Data Subscription Content Advertising Other Equipment Total Communications Mobility $ 54,701 $ - $ - $ - $ - $ 232 $ - $ 16,411 $ 71,344 Entertainment Group - 7,956 3,041 31,762 - 1,595 2,097 9 46,460 Business Wireline - 12,310 10,697 - - - 2,996 824 26,827 WarnerMedia Turner - - - 4,207 295 2,330 147 - 6,979 Home Box Office - - - 3,201 391 - 6 - 3,598 Warner Bros. - - - 47 8,216 53 387 - 8,703 Eliminations and Other - - - 74 (518) 78 27 - (339) Latin America Vrio - - - 4,784 - - - - 4,784 Mexico 1,701 - - - - - - 1,167 2,868 Xandr - - - - - 1,740 - - 1,740 Corporate and Other - - - - - - 1,191 - 1,191 Eliminations and consolidations - - - - (1,843) (1,595) 39 - (3,399) Total Operating Revenues $ 56,402 $ 20,266 $ 13,738 $ 44,075 $ 6,541 $ 4,433 $ 6,890 $ 18,411 $ 170,756 No customer accounted for more than 10% of consolidated revenues in 2018, 2017 or 2016. Deferred Customer Contract Acquisition and Fulfillment Costs Costs to acquire customer contracts, including commissions on service activations, for our wireless, business wireline and video entertainment services, are deferred and amortized over the contract period or expected customer relationship life, which typically ranges from two to five years. Costs to fulfill customer contracts are deferred and amortized ov er periods ranging generally from four to five years, reflecting the estimated economic lives of the respective customer relationships, subject to an assessment of the recoverability of such costs. For contracts with an estimated amortization period of les s than one year, we expense incremental costs immediately. Our deferred customer contract acquisition costs and deferred customer contract fulfillment costs balances were $3,974 and $11,540 as of December 31, 2018, respectively, of which $1,901 and $4,09 0 were included in “Other current assets” on our consolidated balance sheets. For the year ended December 31, 2018, we amortized $1,433 and $4,039 of these costs, respectively. Contract Assets and Liabilities A contract asset is recorded when revenue is r ecognized in advance of our right to bill and receive consideration (i.e., we must perform additional services or satisfy another performance obligation in order to bill and receive consideration). The contract asset will decrease as services are provided and billed. When consideration is received in advance of the delivery of goods or services, a contract liability is recorded. Reductions in the contract liability will be recorded as we satisfy the performance obligations. The following table presents con tract assets and liabilities and revenue recorded at or for the year ended December 31 , 2018: Contract asset $ 1,896 Contract liability 6,856 Our beginning of period contract liability recorded as customer contract revenue during 2018 was $5,677. Our consolidated balance sheet at December 31, 2018 included approximately $1,244 for the current portion of our contract asset in “Other current assets” and $5,752 for the current portion of our contract liability in “Advanced billings and customer deposits.” Remaining Performance Obligations Remaining performance obligations represent services we are required to provide to customers under bundl ed or discounted arrangements, which are satisfied as services are provided over the contract term. In determining the transaction price allocated, we do not include non recurring charges and estimates for usage, nor do we consider arrangements with an ori ginal expected duration of less than one year, which are primarily prepaid wireless, video and residential internet agreements in our Communications segment and advertising and fixed-fee subscription arrangements in our WarnerMedia segment. Remaining per formance obligations are associated with 1) business contracts that reflect recurring charges billed, adjusted for our estimates of sales incentives and other revenue adjustments, 2) wireless contracts, which are estimated using a portfolio approach where we review all relevant promotional activities, calculating the remaining performance obligation using the average service component for the portfolio and the average device price, 3) the licensing of theatrical and television content that will be made avai lable to customers at some point in the future, and 4) upfront or guaranteed payments for licenses of intellectual property that will be recognized over the corresponding license term . As of December 31, 2018, the aggregate amount of the transaction price allocated to remaining performance obligations was $39,871 of which we expect to recognize approximately 55% next year and 80% over the next two years, with the balance recognized thereafter. Comparative Results Prior to 2018, revenue recognized from con tracts that bundle services and equipment was limited to the lesser of the amount allocated based on the relative selling price of the equipment and service already delivered or the consideration received from the customer for the equipment and service alr eady delivered. Our prior accounting also separately recognized regulatory fees as operating revenue when received and as an expense when incurred. Sales commissions were previously expensed as incurred. The following table presents our reported results under ASC 606 and our pro forma results using the historical accounting method: At or for the year ended December 31, 2018 As Reported Historical Accounting Method Consolidated Statement of Income: Service Revenues $ 152,345 $ 157,979 Equipment Revenues 18,411 16,324 Total Operating Revenues 170,756 174,303 Other cost of revenues 32,906 36,636 Selling, general and administrative expenses 36,765 38,961 Total Operating Expenses 144,660 150,586 Operating income 26,096 23,717 Income before income taxes 24,873 22,494 Income tax expense 4,920 4,337 Net income 19,953 18,157 Net income attributable to AT&T $ 19,370 $ 17,597 Basic Earnings per Share Attributable to AT&T $ 2.85 $ 2.59 Diluted Earnings per Share Attributable to AT&T $ 2.85 $ 2.59 Consolidated Balance Sheet: Other current assets $ 17,704 $ 14,756 Other Assets 24,809 22,144 Accounts payable and accrued liabilities 43,184 43,363 Advanced billings and customer deposits 5,948 6,012 Deferred income taxes 57,859 56,485 Other noncurrent liabilities 30,233 29,937 Retained earnings 58,753 54,616 Accumulated other comprehensive income 4,249 4,258 Noncontrolling interest $ 9,795 $ 9,737 |
Acquisitions, Dispositions And
Acquisitions, Dispositions And Other Adjustments | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2018 | |
Acquisitions, Dispositions And Other Adjustments | |
Acquisitions, Dispositions And Other Adjustments [Text Block] | NOTE 6 . ACQUISITIONS, DISPOSITIONS AND OTHER ADJUSTMENTS Acquisitions Time Warner On June 14, 2018, we completed our acquisition of Time Warner, a leader in media and entertainment whose major businesses encompass an array of some of the most respected media brands. The deal combines Time Warner's vast library of content and ability to cr eate new premium content for audiences around the world with our extensive customer relationships and distribution, one of the world's largest pay-TV subscriber bases and scale in TV, mobile and broadband distribution. We expect that the transaction will a dvance our direct-to-consumer efforts and provide us with the ability to develop innovative new offerings. Under the merger agreement, each share of Time Warner stock was exchanged for $53.75 cash plus 1.437 shares of our common stock. After adjustment f or shares issued to trusts consolidated by AT&T, share-based payment arrangements and fractional shares, which were settled in cash, AT&T issued 1,125,517,510 shares to Time Warner shareholders, giving them an approximate 16% stake in the combined company. Based on our $32.52 per share closing stock price on June 14, 2018, we paid Time Warner shareholders $36,599 in AT&T stock and $42,100 in cash. Total consideration, including share-based payment arrangements and other adjustments totaled $79,358, excludin g Time Warner’s net debt at acquisition . On July 12, 2018, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) appealed the U.S. District Court’s decision permitting the merger. We believe the DOJ’s appeal is without merit and we will continue to vigorously defend our le gal position in the appellate court , which completed oral arguments on December 6, 2018. Our 2018 operating results include the results from Time Warner following the acquisition date. The fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed were pr eliminarily determined using the income, cost and market approaches. The fair value measurements were primarily based on significant inputs that are not observable in the market and thus represent a Level 3 measurement as defined in ASC 820, “Fair Value Me asurement, ” other than cash and long-term debt acquired in the acquisition. The income approach was primarily used to value the intangible assets, consisting primarily of distribution network, released TV and film content, in-place advertising network, tra de names, and franchises. The income approach estimates fair value for an asset based on the present value of cash flow projected to be generated by the asset. Projected cash flow is discounted at a required rate of return that reflects the relative risk o f achieving the cash flow and the time value of money. The cost approach, which estimates value by determining the current cost of replacing an asset with another of equivalent economic utility, was used, as appropriate, for plant, property and equipment. The cost to replace a given asset reflects the estimated reproduction or replacement cost for the property, less an allowance for loss in value due to depreciation. The following table summarizes the preliminary estimated fair values of the Time Warner a ssets acquired and liabilities assumed and related deferred income taxes as of the acquisition date: Assets acquired Cash $ 1,889 Accounts receivable 9,052 All other current assets 2,913 Noncurrent inventory and theatrical film and television production costs 5,593 Property, plant and equipment 4,769 Intangible assets subject to amortization Distribution network 18,040 Released television and film content 10,806 Trademarks and trade names 18,081 Other 10,300 Investments and other assets 9,449 Goodwill 38,566 Total assets acquired 129,458 Liabilities assumed Current liabilities, excluding current portion of long-term debt 8,303 Debt maturing within one year 4,471 Long-term debt 18,394 Other noncurrent liabilities 18,931 Total liabilities assumed 50,099 Net assets acquired 79,359 Noncontrolling interest (1) Aggregate value of consideration paid $ 79,358 These estimates are preliminary in nature and subject to adjustments, which could be material. Any necessary adjustments will be finalized within one year from the date of acquisition. Substantially all the receivables acquired are expected to be collectible. We have not identified any material unrecorded pre-acquisition contingencies where the related asset or liability, or an impairment is probable and the amount can be reasonably estimated. Goodwill is calculated as the difference between the ac quisition date fair value of the consideration transferred and the fair value of the net assets acquired, and represents the future economic benefits that we expect to achieve as a result of the acquisition. Prior to the finalization of the purchase price allocation, if information becomes available that would indicate it is probable that unknown events had occurred and the amounts can be reasonably estimated, such items will be included in the final purchase price allocation and may change goodwill. Purcha sed goodwill is not expected to be deductible for tax purposes. As we finalize the valuation of assets acquired and liabilities assumed, we will determine to which reporting units within the WarnerMedia segment any changes in goodwill should be recorded. For the 200-day period ended December 31, 2018, our consolidated statement of income included $ 18,209 of revenues and $1,400 of operating income, which included $ 3,296 of intangible amortization, from Time Warner and its affiliates. The following unaudited pro forma consolidated results of operations assume that the acquisition of Time Warner was completed as of January 1, 201 7 . (Unaudited) Year Ended December 31, 2018 2017 Total operating revenues $ 183,651 $ 188,769 Net Income Attributable to AT&T 20,814 31,380 Basic Earnings Per Share Attributable to AT&T $ 2.86 $ 4.30 Diluted Earnings Per Share Attributable to AT&T $ 2.85 $ 4.26 These unaudited pro forma consolidated results reflect the adoption of ASC 606 for 2018, which is not on a comparable basis with 2017 (see Note 5). Pro forma data may not be indicative of the results that would have been obtained had these events occurred at the beginning of the periods presented, nor is it intended to be a projection of future results. Otter Media On August 7, 2018, we acquired the remaining interest in Otter Media Holdings (Otter Media) for $157 in cash and the conversion to equity of the $1,480 advance made in the first quarter. At acquisition, we remeasured the fair value of the total business, which exceeded the book value of our equity method investment and resulted in a pre- tax gain of $395. We consolidated that business upon close and recorded those assets at fair value, including $1,239 of goodwill that is reported in the WarnerMedia segment. AppNexus On August 15, 2018, we purchased AppNexus for $1,432 and recorded $1,220 of goodwill that is reported in the Xandr segment. Our in vestment will allow us to create a marketplace for TV and digital video advertising. Auction 1000 On April 13, 2017, the FCC announced that we were the successful bidder for $910 of spectrum in 18 markets. We provided the FCC an initial deposit of $2,348 in July 2016 and received a refund of $1,438 in April 2017, which was recorded as cash from investing activities in our consolidated statement of cash flows. In 2018, we sold these wireless licenses at the auction price. Spectrum Acquisitions and Swaps On occasion, we swap spectrum with other wireless providers to ensure we have efficient and contiguous coverage across our markets and service areas. During 201 8 , we acquired $ 521 of wireless spectrum . During 2017, we swapped FCC licenses with a fair value of approximately $2,003 with other carriers and recorded a net gain of $181. During 2016, we swapped FCC licenses with a fair value of approximately $2,122 with other carriers and recorded a net gain of $714. Dispositions Data Colocation Operations On December 31, 2018, we sold certain data centers to Brookfield Infrastructure Partner s for $1,100 and recorded a pre- tax gain of $432. The sale included assets; primarily consisting of property, plant and equipment, of $298; and goodwill of $215. YP Holding s LLC In June 2017, YP Holding s LLC was acquired by Dex Media, resulting in a gain of $36 for our portion of the proceeds. |
Property, Plant And Equipment
Property, Plant And Equipment | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2018 | |
Property, Plant And Equipment | |
Property, Plant And Equipment [Text Block] | NOTE 7 . PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT Property, plant and equipment is summarized as follows at December 31: Lives (years) 2018 2017 Land - $ 2,714 $ 1,630 Buildings and improvements 2-44 38,013 36,319 Central office equipment 1 3-10 95,173 94,076 Cable, wiring and conduit 15-50 73,397 67,695 Satellites 14-17 2,961 2,967 Other equipment 3-20 93,782 90,017 Software 3-7 19,124 16,750 Under construction - 5,526 4,045 330,690 313,499 Accumulated depreciation and amortization 199,217 188,277 Property, plant and equipment - net $ 131,473 $ 125,222 1 Includes certain network software. Our depreciation expense was $20,102 in 2018 , $19,761 in 2017 and $20,661 in 2016 . Depreciation expense included amortization of software totaling $3,092 in 2018 , $2,810 in 2017 and $2,362 in 2016 . During the fourth quarter of 2017, we determined that certain copper assets will not be necessary to support future network activity due to fiber deployment plans in particular markets. We recorded a noncash pre - tax charge of $2,883 to abandon these assets. Certain facilities and equipment used in operations are leased under operating or capital leases. Rental expenses under operating leases were $5,296 for 2018 , $4,953 for 2017 and $4,482 for 2016 . At December 31, 2018 , the future minimum rental payments under noncancelable opera ting leases for the years 2019 through 2023 were $4,361 , $4,046 , $3,558 , $3,253 and $2,836 , with $9,540 due thereafter. Certain real estate operating leases contain renewal options that may be exercised. At December 31, 2018 , the future minimum rental payments under capital leases for the years 2019 through 2023 were $154 , $130 , $118 , $124 and $124 , with $1,261 due thereafter. |
Goodwill And Other Intangible A
Goodwill And Other Intangible Assets | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2018 | |
Goodwill And Other Intangible Assets | |
Goodwill And Other Intangible Assets [Text Block] | NOTE 8 . GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLE ASSETS The following table sets forth the changes in the carrying amounts of goodwill by reporting unit, which is deemed to be our principal operating segments or one level below. Our Communications segment has three reporting units: Mobility, Entertainment Group and Business Wireline. Due to the timing of the Time Warner acquisition, we have not finalized the valuation or allocation of goodwill to the underlying business units and have recorded the goodwill in our Wa rnerMedia segment. Our Lat in America segmen t has two reporting units: Mexico and Vrio. 2018 2017 Balance at Jan. 1 Reallocation Acquisitions Dispositions, currency exchange and other Balance at Dec. 31 Balance at Jan. 1 Acquisitions Dispositions, currency exchange and other Balance at Dec. 31 Mobility $ - $ 44,108 $ - $ - $ 44,108 $ - $ - $ - $ - Entertainment Group 39,280 (860) - (11) 38,409 39,053 210 17 39,280 Business Wireline - 17,827 422 (215) 18,034 - - - - Communications 39,280 61,075 422 (226) 100,551 39,053 210 17 39,280 WarnerMedia - 681 40,036 (19) 40,698 - - - - Latin America 4,234 (32) - (484) 3,718 4,264 - (30) 4,234 Xandr - 211 1,220 (28) 1,403 - - - - Business Solutions 45,395 (45,395) - - - 45,364 - 31 45,395 Consumer Mobility 16,540 (16,540) - - - 16,526 - 14 16,540 Total $ 105,449 $ - $ 41,678 $ (757) $ 146,370 $ 105,207 $ 210 $ 32 $ 105,449 The majority of our goodwill acquired in 2018 is from our acquisitions of Time Warner, AppNexus and Otter Media (see Note 6). Other changes to our goodwill in 2018 include the sale of our data colocation operations, as well as changes from foreign currency translation. With our segment realignment, we reallocated goodwill within our reporting units. The majority of our goodwill acquired during 2017 related to our acquisition of INVIDI Technologies, a leading provider in addressable advertising plat forms, the final valuation of Quickplay Media and other adjustments. Other changes to our goodwill in 2017 include foreign currency translation. Our other intangible assets at December 31 are summarized as follows: 2018 2017 Other Intangible Assets Weighted-Average Life Gross Carrying Amount Accumulated Amortization Currency Translation Adjustment Gross Carrying Amount Accumulated Amortization Currency Translation Adjustment Amortized intangible assets: Customer lists and relationships: Wireless acquisitions $ 244 $ 212 $ - $ 764 $ 683 $ - BellSouth Corporation - - - 2,370 2,370 - WarnerMedia 73 15 - - - - AppNexus 75 20 - - - - DIRECTV 19,551 11,852 (216) 19,551 8,950 (141) AT&T Corp. 67 36 - 33 29 - Mexican wireless 506 316 (98) 506 278 (97) Subtotal 9.1 years 20,516 12,451 (314) 23,224 12,310 (238) Trademarks and trade names 38.6 years 18,371 293 (7) 2,942 2,366 (6) Distribution network 10.0 years 18,040 971 - - - - Released television and film content 10.8 years 10,814 2,988 - - - - Other 18.8 years 11,624 907 (25) 781 335 (3) Total 17.8 years $ 79,365 $ 17,610 $ (346) $ 26,947 $ 15,011 $ (247) Indefinite-lived intangible assets not subject to amortization, net of currency translation adjustment: Licenses: Wireless licenses $ 84,442 $ 84,434 Orbital slots 11,702 11,702 Trade names 6,274 6,451 Total $ 102,418 $ 102,587 Amortized intangible assets are definite-life assets, and, as such, we record amortization expense based on a method that most appropriately reflects our expected cash flows from these assets. Amortization expense for definite-life intangible assets was $8,327 for the year ended December 31, 2018, $4,626 for the year ended December 31, 2017 and $5,186 for the year ended December 31, 2016. Amortization expense is estimated to be $7,982 in 2019, $6,886 in 2020, $5,787 in 2021, $5,015 in 2022 and $4,337 in 2 023. In 2018, we wrote off approximately $2,892 of fully amortized trade names and $2,890 of fully amortized customer lists. In 2017, we wrote off approximately $2,273 of fully amortized intangible assets (primarily customer lists). We review amortized i ntangible assets for impairment whenever events or circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable over the remaining life of the asset or asset group. |
Equity Method Investments
Equity Method Investments | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2018 | |
Equity Method Investments | |
Equity Method Investments [Text Block] | NOTE 9 . EQUITY METHOD INVESTMENTS Investments in partnerships, joint ventures and less than majority-owned subsidiaries in which we have significant influence are accounted for under the equity method. In the second quarter of 2018, we acquired Time Warner (see Note 6), which included various equity method investments. The differences between the fair value and the proportional book value of these investments’ net assets were $2,871. We attributed $1,642 to amortizing intangibles, which will be amorti zed into earnings in our “Equity net income (loss) of affiliates” over a weighted-average life of 18.2 years. The earnings from these investments, subsequent to the acquisition date, are included in the 2018 activity in the table below, as well as our cons olidated statement of income for 2018. In the third quarter of 2018, we acquired the remaining interest in Otter Media, which had previously been one of our equity method investments (see Note 6). Upon the closing of this acquisition, we began consolidati ng that business and recorded those assets at fair value. Our investments in equity affiliates at December 31, 201 8 primarily include our interests in Hudson Yards , HBO Latin America Group, Hulu, Central European Media Enterprises Ltd. and SKY Mexico . H udson Yards North Tower Holdings LLC (Hudson Yards) We hold a 50.0% interest in Hudson Yards, a limited liability company involved in the construction and development of real estate in New York City, which includes future office and studio space to be use d by our WarnerMedia business. HBO Latin America Group (HBO LAG) We hold an 88.2% interest in HBO LAG, which owns and operates various television channels in Latin America. We do not have the power to direct the activities that most significantly impact this entity’s economic performance, and therefore, account for this investment under the equity method of accounting. Hulu We hold a 10.0% interest in Hulu, a provider of over-the-top services including instant streaming of television and movies. Centra l European Media Enterprises Ltd. (CME) We hold a 66.6% interest in CME, a broadcasting company that operates leading television networks in Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Romania and the Slovak Republic, as well as develops and produces content for its te levision networks. We do not have the power to direct the activities that most significantly impact this entity’s economic performance, and therefore, account for this investment under the equity method of accounting. SKY Mexico We hold a 41.3% interes t in SKY Mexico, which is a leading pay-TV provider in Mexico. The following table is a reconciliation of our investments in equity affiliates as presented on our consolidated balance sheets: 2018 2017 Beginning of year $ 1,560 $ 1,674 Additional investments 237 51 Time Warner investments acquired 4,912 - Acquisition of remaining interest in Otter Media (166) - Equity in net income (loss) of affiliates (48) (128) Dividends and distributions received (243) (46) Currency translation adjustments (14) 22 Other adjustments 7 (13) End of year $ 6,245 $ 1,560 |
Inventories and Theatrical Film
Inventories and Theatrical Film and Television Production Costs | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2018 | |
Inventory Disclosure [Abstract] | |
Inventories and Theatrical Film and Television Production Costs | NOTE 10. INVENTORIES AND THEATRICAL FILM AND TELEVISION PRODUCTION COSTS Film and television production costs are stated at the lower of cost, less accumulated amortization, or fair value and include the unamortized cost of completed theatrical films and television episodes, theatrical films and television series in production and undeveloped film and television rights. The amount of capitalized film and television production costs recognized as broadcast, programming and operations expenses for a given p eriod is determined using the film forecast computation method. The following table summarizes inventories and theatri cal film and television production costs as of December 3 1 : 2018 Inventories: Programming costs, less amortization 1 $ 4,097 Other inventory, primarily DVD and Blu-ray Discs 146 Total inventories 4,243 Less: current portion of inventory (2,420) Total noncurrent inventories 1,823 Theatrical film production costs: 2 Released, less amortization 451 Completed and not released 435 In production 866 Development and pre-production 159 Television production costs: 2 Released, less amortization 965 Completed and not released 1,087 In production 1,898 Development and pre-production 29 Total theatrical film and television production costs 5,890 Total noncurrent inventories and theatrical film and television production costs $ 7,713 1 Includes the costs of certain programming rights, primarily sports, for which payments have been made prior to the related rights being received. 2 Does not include $7,826 of acquired film and television library intangible assets as of December 31, 2018, which are included in "Other Intangible Assets - Net" on our consolidated balance sheet. Approximately 90 % of unamortized film costs for released theatrical and television content are expected to be amortized within three years from December 31, 2018. In addition, approximately $2,298 of the film costs of released and completed and not released theatrical and television product are expected to be amortized during 2019. |
Debt
Debt | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2018 | |
Debt Disclosure | |
Debt [Text Block] | NOTE 11 . DEBT Long-term debt of AT&T and its subsidiaries, including interest rates and maturities, is summarized as follows at December 31: 2018 2017 Notes and debentures Interest Rates Maturities 1 0.49% – 2.99% 2018 – 2022 $ 14,404 $ 19,514 3.00% – 4.99% 2018 – 2049 104,291 93,915 5.00% – 6.99% 2018 – 2095 37,175 46,343 7.00% – 9.50% 2018 – 2097 5,976 4,579 Credit agreement borrowings 12,618 1,700 Other 89 - Fair value of interest rate swaps recorded in debt (32) (20) 174,521 166,031 Unamortized (discount) premium - net (2,526) (2,968) Unamortized issuance costs (466) (537) Total notes and debentures 171,529 162,526 Capital lease obligations 1,911 1,818 Total long-term debt, including current maturities 173,440 164,344 Current maturities of long-term debt (7,190) (38,372) Total long-term debt $ 166,250 $ 125,972 1 Maturities assume putable debt is redeemed by the holders at the next opportunity. On June 14, 2018 , we added $ 22 , 865 in total debt, including capital leases, related to our acquisition of Time Warner. Time Warner’s debt included both fixed and floating-rate coupons with a weighted average rate of approximately 4 . 63 % (ranging from 1 . 25% to 9 . 15 %) and had maturities ranging from 2018 to 20 45 . Included in our “Total note and debentures” balance in the table above was the face value of the acquired debt from Time Warner of $ 16 , 981 , which had a carrying amount of $ 17 , 107 at December 31, 2018 . Included in the table above at December 31, 2018, was approximately $ 546 , representing the remaining excess of the fair value over the recorded value of debt in connection with the acquisition of Time Warner , all of which was included in our “Unamortize d (discount) premium – net.” The excess is amortized over the remaining lives of the underlying debt obligations. We had outstanding Euro, British pound sterling, Canadian dollar, Swiss franc, Australian dollar, Brazilian real and Mexican peso denominated debt of approximately $41,356 and $37,621 at December 31, 201 8 and 201 7 . The weighted-average interest rate of our entire long-term debt portfolio, including the impact of derivatives, remained unchanged at 4. 4 % at December 31, 201 8 and 2017 . Current ma turities of long-term debt include debt that may be put back to us by the holders in 2019 . We have $1,000 of annual put reset securities that may be put each April until maturity in 2021. If the holders do not require us to repurchase the sec urities, the interest rate will be reset based on current market conditions. Likewise, we have an accreting zero-coupon note that may be redeemed each May, until maturity in 2022. If the zero-coupon note (issued for principal of $500 in 2007 and partially exchanged in the 2017 debt exchange offers) is held to maturity, the redemption amount will be $592. Debt maturing within one year consisted of the following at December 31: 2018 2017 Current maturities of long-term debt $ 7,190 $ 38,372 Commercial paper 3,048 - Bank borrowings 1 4 2 Other 13 - Total $ 10,255 $ 38,374 1 Outstanding balance of short-term credit facility of a foreign subsidiary. Financing Activities During 2018, we received net proceeds of $41, 875 on the issuance of $ 41 , 977 in long-term debt in various markets, with an average weighted maturity of approximately five years and a weighted average coupon of 3 . 4 %. We redeemed $52,643 in borrowings of various notes with stated rates of 1 . 25 % to 6 . 45 %. Approximately $21,236 of the notes redeemed were subject to mandatory redemption due to the delay in closing our acquisition of Time Warner . On February 19, 2019, we issued $3,000 of 4.350% global notes due 2029 and $2,000 of 4.850% global notes due 2039. The proceeds will be used to redeem approximately $4,100 of senior notes issued by AT&T or one of our subsidiaries, su ch notes were issued redemption notices on February 15, 2019 and will be redeemed on March 27, 2019. Excess proceeds, together with cash on hand, were used to pay down amounts outstanding under term loans drawn on for the Time Warner acquisition. As of December 31, 2018 and 2017 , we were in compliance with all covenants and conditions of instruments governing our debt. Substantially all of our outstanding long-term debt is unsecured. Maturities of outstanding long-term notes and debentures, as of December 31, 2018 , and the corres ponding weighted-average interest rate scheduled for repayment are as follows: 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 Thereafter Debt repayments 1 $ 7,090 $ 12,665 $ 13,468 $ 12,640 $ 14,081 $ 114,609 Weighted-average interest rate 3.0 % 3.3 % 3.7 % 3.0 % 3.5 % 4.8 % 1 Debt repayments assume putable debt is redeemed by the holders at the next opportunity. Credit Facilities General In December 2018, we amended our five-year revolving credit agreement (the “Amended and Restated Credit Agreement”) and concurrently entered into a new five-year agreement (the “Five Year Credit Agreement”) such that we now have two $7,500 revolving credit agreements totaling $15,000. The Amended and Restated Credit Agreement terminates on December 11, 2021 and the Five Year Credit Agreement terminates on December 11, 2023. No amounts were outstanding under either agreement as of December 31, 2018. On November 20, 2018, we entered into and drew on a 4.5 year $3,550 term loan credit agreement (the “November 2018 Term Loan”) with Bank of America, N.A., as agent. We used the proceeds to finance the repayment in part of loans outstand ing under the Acquisition Term Loan (described below). On September 29, 2017, we entered into a $2,250 syndicated term loan credit agreement (the “Nova Scotia Credit Agreement”) containing (i) a three-year $750 term loan facility, (ii) a four-year $750 te rm loan facility and (iii) a five-year $750 term loan facility, with certain investment and commercial banks and The Bank of Nova Scotia, as administrative agent. During 2018, to provide financing for our Time Warner acquisition, we drew $2,250 on the Nova Scotia Credit Agreement . On November 15, 2016, we entered into a $10,000 term loan credit agreement (the “Acquisition Term Loan”) with a syndicate of 20 lenders. On February 2, 2018, we amended the Acquisition Term Loan to extend the commitment terminati on date to December 31, 2018 and increase the commitments to $16,175. During 2018, to provide financing for our Time Warner acquisition, we drew $16,175 on the Acquisition Term Loan and as of December 31, 2018 have $2,625 outstanding. On January 31, 2019, we entered into an d drew on an 11-month $2,850 syndicated term loan credit agreement (the “Citibank Term Loan”), with certain investment and commercial banks and Citibank, N.A., as administrative agent. Each of our credit and loan agreements contains cov enants that are customary for an issuer with an investment grade senior debt credit rating, as well as a net debt-to-EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization, and other modifications described in each agreement) financial rati o covenant requiring AT&T to maintain, as of the last day of each fiscal quarter, a ratio of not more than 3.5-to-1. The events of default are customary for agreements of this type and such events would result in the acceleration of, or would permit the le nders to accelerate, as applicable, required payments and would increase each agreement’s relevant Applicable Margin by 2.00% per annum. Credit Agreemen ts The obligations of the lenders under the Amended and Restated Credit Agreement to provide advances will terminate on December 11, 2021, and under the Five Year Credit Agreement to provide advances will terminate on December 11, 2023, unless the commitments are terminated in whole prior to that date. All advances must be repaid no later than the date on which lenders are no longer obligated to make any advances under the applicable Credit Agreement. Each of the Credit Agreements provides that we and lenders representing more than 50% of the facility amount may agree to extend their commitments under suc h Credit Agreement for two one-year periods beyond the initial termination date. We have the right to terminate, in whole or in part, amounts committed by the lenders under each of the Credit Agreements in excess of any outstanding advances; however, any s uch terminated commitments may not be reinstated. Advances under these agreements would bear interest, at AT&T's option, either: at a variable annual rate equal to: (1) the highest of (but not less than zero) (a) the rate of interest announced publicly by Citibank in New York, New York, from time to time, as Citibank’s base rate, (b) 0.5% per annum above the federal funds rate, and (c) the London interbank offered rate (or the successor thereto) (“LIBOR”) applicable to dollars for a period of one month p lus 1.00%, plus (2) an applicable margin, as set forth in the applicable Credit Agreement (the “Applicable Margin for Base Advances”); or at a rate equal to: (i) LIBOR (adjusted upwards to reflect any bank reserve costs) for a period of one, two, three or six months, as applicable, plus (ii) an applicable margin, as set forth in the applicable Credit Agreement (the “Applicable Margin for Eurodollar Rate Advances”). We will pay a facility fee of 0.070%, 0.0 8 0%, 0.100% or 0.125% per annum of the amount of t he lender commitments , depending on AT&T’s credit rating. November 2018 Term Loan On November 20, 2018, we drew on the November 2018 Term Loan to finance the repayment in part of loans outstanding under the Acquisition Term Loan. Advances would bear interest, at AT&T’s option, either: at a variable annual rate equal to: (1) the highest of (but not less than zero) (a) the prime rate quoted by The Wall Street Journal, (b) 0.5% per annum above the federal funds rate, and (c) the London interbank offered rate (“LIBOR”) applicable to dollars for a period of one month plus 1.00%, plus (2) an applicable margin, as set forth in the November 2018 Term Loan (the “Applicable Margin for Base Advances”); or at a rate equal to: (i) LIBOR (adjusted upwards to reflect any bank reserve costs) for a period of one, two, three or six months, as applicable, plus (ii) an applicable margin, as set forth in the November 2018 Term Loan (the “Applicable Margin for Eurodollar Rate Advances”). The Applicable Margin for Eurodollar Rate Advances will be equal to 0.875%, 1.000% or 1.125% per annum, depending on AT&T’ s unsecured long-term debt ratings. The Applicable Margin for Base Advances is equal to the greater of (x) 0.00% and (y) the relevant Applicable Margin for Eurodollar Rate Advances minus 1.00% per annum, depending on AT&T’s unsecured long-term debt ratings . Repayment of all advances with respect to the November 2018 Term Loan will be subject to amortization commencing two years and nine months after the date on which such advances are made, with 25% of the aggregate principal amount thereof being payable p rior to the date that is four years and six months after the date on which such advances are made, and all remaining principal amount due and payable on the date that is four years and six months after the date on which such advances are made. Nova Scotia Credit Agreement On January 26, 2018, to provide financing for our Time Warner acquisition, we drew $2,250 on the Nova Scotia Credit Agreement. Advances under this agreement would bear interest, at AT&T's option, either: at a variable annual rate equal t o (1) the highest of: (a) the base rate of Scotiabank, (b) 0.50% per annum above the Federal funds rate, and (c) the ICE Benchmark Administration Limited Settlement Rate applicable to U.S. dollars for a period of one month plus 1.00% per annum, plus (2) an applicable margin (as set forth in the Nova Scotia Credit Agreement); or at a rate equal to: (i) LIBOR for a period of three or six months, as applicable, plus (ii) an applicable margin (as set forth in the Nova Scotia Credit Agreement). Acquisition Term Loan Under the Acquisition Term Loan, there are two tranches of commitments, each in a total amount of $8,087. On June 14, 2018, to provide financing for our Time Warner acquisition, we drew $16,175 on the Acquisition Term Loan. Advances bear interest, at AT&T’s option, either: at a variable annual rate equal to: (1) the highest of (a) the prime rate of JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., (b) 0.5% per annum above the federal funds rate, and (c) the LIBOR rate applicable to dollars for a period of one month plus 1.00%, plus (2) an applicable margin, as set forth in the Acquisition Term Loan (the “Applicable Margin for Base Advances (Term Loan)”); or at a rate equal to: (i ) LIBOR (adjusted upwards to reflect any bank reserve costs) for a period of one, two, three or six months, as applicable, plus (ii) an applicable margin, as set forth in the Acquisition Term Loan (the “Applicable Margin for Eurodollar Rate Advances (Term Loan)”). The Applicable Margin for Eurodollar Rate Advances (Term Loan) under Tranche A is equal to 1.000%, 1.125% or 1.250% per annum, depending on AT&T’s credit ratings. The Applicable Margin for Eurodollar Rate Advances (Term Loan) under Tranche B is equal to 1.125%, 1.250% or 1.375% per annum, depending on AT&T’s credit ratings. The Applicable Margin for Base Advances (Term Loan) is equal to the greater of (x) 0.00% and (y) the relevant Applicable Margin for Eurodollar Rate Advances (Term Loan) minus 1.00% per annum, depending on AT&T’s credit ratings. As of December 31, 2018, $2,625 is outstanding of Tranche A advances and $0 is outstanding of Tranche B advances. Repayment of all advances with respect to Tranche A must be made no later than two years and six months after the date on which such advances are made. We paid $2,625 of the Tranche A advances on February 20, 2019, and terminated the facility. Citibank Term Loan On January 31, 2019, we entered into and drew on an 11-month $2,850 syndicated term loan credit agreement (the “Citibank Term Loan”), with certain investment and commercial banks and Citibank, N.A., as administrative agent. Advances would bear interest, at AT&T’s option, either: at a variable annual rate equal to: (1) the highest of (but not less than zero) (a) the rate of interest announced publicly by Citibank in New York, New York, from time to time, as Citibank’s base rate, (b) 0.5% per annum above the federal funds rate, and (c) the London interbank offered rate (“LIBOR”) appl icable to dollars for a period of one month plus 1.00%, plus (2) an applicable margin, as set forth in the Citibank Term Loan (the “Applicable Margin for Base Advances (Citibank Term Loan)”); or at a rate equal to: (i) LIBOR (adjusted upwards to reflect a ny bank reserve costs) for a period of one, two, three or six months, as applicable, plus (ii) an applicable margin, as set forth in the Citibank Term Loan (the “Applicable Margin for Eurodollar Rate Advances (Citibank Term Loan)”). The Applicable Margin for Eurodollar Rate Advances (Citibank Term Loan) will be equal to 0.750%, 0.800% or 1.000% per annum, depending on AT&T’s unsecured long-term debt ratings. The Applicable Margin for Base Advances (Citibank Term Loan) is equal to the greater of (x) 0.00% and (y) the relevant Applicable Margin for Eurodollar Rate Advances (Citibank Term Loan) minus 1.00% per annum, depending on AT&T’s unsecured long-term debt ratings. Repayment of all advances with respect to the Citibank Term Loan must be made no later th an December 31, 2019. |
Fair Value Measurements And Dis
Fair Value Measurements And Disclosure | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2018 | |
Fair Value Measurements And Disclosure | |
Fair Value Measurements And Disclosure [Text Block] | NOTE 12. FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS AND DISCLOSURE The Fair Value Measurement and Disclosure framework provides a three-tiered fair value hierarchy that gives highest priority to unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities (Level 1 measurements) and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs (Level 3 measurements). The three levels of the fair value hierarchy are described below: Level 1 Inputs to the valuation methodology are unadjusted quoted prices for identical assets or liabilities in active markets that we have the ability to access. Level 2 Inputs to the valuation methodology include: Quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets. Quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in i nactive markets. Inputs other than quoted market prices that are observable for the asset or liability. Inputs that are derived principally from or corroborated by observable market data by correlation or other means. Level 3 Inputs to the valuation metho dology are unobservable and significant to the fair value measurement. Fair value is often based on developed models in which there are few, if any, external observations. The fair value measurements level of an asset or liability within the fair value hi erarchy is based on the lowest level of any input that is significant to the fair value measurement. Our valuation techniques maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs. The valuation methodologies described above may produce a fair value calculation that may not be indicative of future net realizable value or reflective of future fair values. We believe our valuation methods are appropriate and consistent with other market participants. The use of different methodo logies or assumptions to determine the fair value of certain financial instruments could result in a different fair value measurement at the reporting date. There have been no changes in the methodologies used since December 31, 2017 . Long-Term Debt and Other Financial Instruments The carrying amounts and estimated fair values of our long-term debt, including current maturities, and other financial instruments, are summarized as follows: December 31, 2018 December 31, 2017 Carrying Fair Carrying Fair Amount Value Amount Value Notes and debentures 1 $ 171,529 $ 172,287 $ 162,526 $ 171,938 Commercial paper 3,048 3,048 - - Bank borrowings 4 4 2 2 Capitalized leases 1,911 1,911 1,818 1,818 Investment securities 3,409 3,409 2,447 2,447 1 Includes credit agreement borrowings. The carrying amount of debt with an original maturity of less than one year approximates fair value. The fair value measurements used for notes and debentures are considered Level 2 and are determined using various methods, including quoted prices for identical or similar securities in both active and inactive markets. Following is the fair value leveling for investment securities that are measured at fair value and derivatives as of December 31, 2018 , and December 31, 2017 . Derivatives designat ed as hedging instruments are reflected as “Other assets” and “Other noncurrent liabilities” on our consolidated balance sheets. December 31, 2018 Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Total Equity Securities Domestic equities $ 1,061 $ - $ - $ 1,061 International equities 256 - - 256 Fixed income equities 172 - - 172 Available-for-Sale Debt Securities - 870 - 870 Asset Derivatives Cross-currency swaps - 472 - 472 Foreign exchange contracts - 87 - 87 Liability Derivatives Interest rate swaps - (39) - (39) Cross-currency swaps - (2,563) - (2,563) Foreign exchange contracts - (2) - (2) December 31, 2017 Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Total Equity Securities Domestic equities $ 1,142 $ - $ - $ 1,142 International equities 321 - - 321 Fixed income equities - 152 - 152 Available-for-Sale Debt Securities - 581 - 581 Asset Derivatives Interest rate swaps - 17 - 17 Cross-currency swaps - 1,753 - 1,753 Liability Derivatives Interest rate swaps - (31) - (31) Cross-currency swaps - (1,290) - (1,290) Investment Securities Our investment securities include both equity and debt securities that are measured at fair value, as well as equity securities without readily determinable fair values. A substantial portion of the fair values of our investment securities is estimated based on quoted market prices. Investments in equity securities not traded on a national securities exchange are valued at cost, less any impairment, and adjusted for changes resulting from observable, orderly transactions for iden tical or similar securities. Investments in debt securities not traded on a national securities exchange are valued using pricing models, quoted prices of securities with similar characteristics or discounted cash flows. The components comprising total g ains and losses on equity securities are as follows: For the year ended December 31, 2018 2017 2016 Total gains (losses) recognized on equity securities $ (130) $ 326 $ 96 Gains (losses) recognized on equity securities sold 50 303 4 Unrealized gains (losses) recognized on equity securities held at end of period $ (180) $ 23 $ 92 At December 31, 2018 , available-for-sale d ebt securities totaling $ 870 have maturities as follows - less than one year : $ 8 ; one to three years : $ 135 ; t hree to five year s: $ 123 ; for five or more years : $ 604 . Our cash equivalents (money market securities), short-term investments (certificate and time deposits) and nonrefundable customer deposits are recorded at amortized cost, and the respective carrying amounts a pproximate fair values. Short-term investments and nonrefundable customer deposits are recorded in “Other current assets” and our investment securities are recorded in “Other Assets” on the consolidated balance sheets. Derivative Financial Instruments We enter into derivative transactions to manage certain market risks, primarily interest rate risk and foreign currency exchange risk. This includes the use of interest rate swaps, interest rate locks, foreign exchange forward contracts and combined interest rate foreign exchange contracts (cross-currency swaps). We do not use derivatives for trading or speculative purposes. We record derivatives on our consolidated balance sheets at fair value that is derived from observable market data, including yield curve s and foreign exchange rates (all of our derivatives are Level 2). Cash flows associated with derivative instruments are presented in the same category on the consolidated statements of cash flows as the item being hedged. Fair Value Hedging We designate our fixed-to-floating interest rate swaps as fair value hedges. The purpose of these swaps is to manage interest rate risk by managing our mix of fixed-rate and floating-rate debt. These swaps involve the receipt of fixed-rate amounts for floating interes t rate payments over the life of the swaps without exchange of the underlying principal amount. We also designate some of our foreign exchange contracts as fair value hedges. The purpose of these contracts is to hedge currency risk associated with foreig n-currency-denominated operating assets and liabilities. Accrued and realized gains or losses from fair value hedges impact the same category on the consolidated statements of income as the item being hedged. Unrealized gains on fair value hedges are rec orded at fair market value as assets, and unrealized losses are recorded at fair market value as liabilities. Changes in the fair value of derivative instruments designated as fair value hedges are offset against the change in fair value of the hedged asse ts or liabilities through earnings. In the year ended December 31, 2018 and 2017 , no ineffectiveness was measured on fair value hedges . Cash Flow Hedging We designate our cross-currency swaps as cash flow hedges. We have entered into multiple cross-currency swaps to hedge our exposure to variability in expected future cash flows that are attributable to foreign currency risk generated from the issuance of our foreign-denominated debt. These agreements include initial and final exchanges of principal from fixed foreign currency denominated amounts to fixed U.S. dollar denominated amounts, to be exchanged at a specified rate that is usually determined by the market spot rate upon issuance. They also include an interest r ate swap of a fixed or floating foreign currency-denominated interest rate to a fixed U.S. dollar denominated interest rate. We also designate some of our foreign exchange contracts as cash flow hedges. The purpose of these contracts is to hedge currency risk associated with variability in anticipated foreign-currency-denominated cash flows, such as unremitted or forecasted royalty and license fees owed to WarnerMedia’s domestic companies for the sale or anticipated sale of U.S. copyrighted products abroad or cash flows for certain film production costs denominated in a foreign currency. Unrealized gains on derivatives designated as cash flow hedges are recorded at fair value as assets, and unrealized losses are recorded at fair value as liabilities. For derivative instruments designated as cash flow hedges, the effective portion is reported as a component of accumulated OCI until reclassified into the consolidated statements of income in the same period the hedged transaction affects earnings. The gain or loss on the ineffective portion is recognized as “Other income (expense) – net” in the consolidated statements of income in each period. We evaluate the effectiveness of our cash flow hedge s each quarter. In the year ended December 31, 2018 and 2017 , no ineffectiveness was measured on cash flow hedges. Periodically, we enter into and designate interest rate locks to partially hedge the risk of changes in interest payments attributable to increases in the benchmark interes t rate during the period leading up to the probable issuance of fixed-rate debt. We designate our interest rate locks as cash flow hedges. Gains and losses when we settle our interest rate locks are amortized into income over the life of the related debt, except where a material amount is deemed to be ineffective, which would be immediately reclassified to “Other income (expense) – net” in the consolidated statements of income. Over the next 12 months, we expect to reclassify $ 63 from accum ulated OCI to interest expense due to the amortization of net losses on historical interest rate locks. Net Investment Hedging We have designated €700 million aggregate principal amount of debt as a hedge of the variability of some of the Euro-denominate d net investments of WarnerMedia. The gain or loss on the debt that is designated as, and is effective as, an economic hedge of the net investment in a foreign operation is recorded as a currency translation adjustment within accumulated other comprehensiv e income, net on the consolidated balance sheet. Collateral and Credit-Risk Contingency We have entered into agreements with our derivative counterparties establishing collateral thresholds based on respective credit ratings and netting agreements. At December 31, 2018 , we had posted collateral of $1,675 (a deposit asset) and held collateral of $103 (a receipt liability) . Under the agreements, if AT&T’s credit rating had been downgraded one rating level by Fitch Ratings, before the final collateral exchange in December , we would have been required to post additional collatera l of $ 154 . If DIRECTV Holdings LLC’s credit rating had been downgraded below BBB- (S&P), we would have been required to post additional collateral of $ 256 . At December 31, 2017 , we had posted collateral of $495 (a deposit asset) and held collateral of $968 (a receipt liability) . We do not offse t the fair value of collateral, whether the right to reclaim cash collateral (a receivable) or the obligation to return cash collateral (a payable) exists, against the fair value of the derivative instruments. Following are the notional amounts of our outstanding derivative positions: 2018 2017 Interest rate swaps $ 3,483 $ 9,833 Cross-currency swaps 42,192 38,694 Foreign exchange contracts 2,094 - Total $ 47,769 $ 48,527 Following are the related hedged items affecting our financial position and performance: Effect of Derivatives on the Consolidated Statements of Income Fair Value Hedging Relationships For the years ended December 31, 2018 2017 2016 Interest rate swaps (Interest expense): Gain (Loss) on interest rate swaps $ (12) $ (68) $ (61) Gain (Loss) on long-term debt 12 68 61 The net swap settlements that accrued and settled in the periods above were included in interest expense. Cash Flow Hedging Relationships For the years ended December 31, 2018 2017 2016 Cross-currency swaps: Gain (Loss) recognized in accumulated OCI $ (825) $ 571 $ 1,061 Foreign exchange contracts: Gain (Loss) recognized in accumulated OCI 51 - - Other income (expense) - net reclassified from accumulated OCI into income 39 - - Interest rate locks: Interest income (expense) reclassified from accumulated OCI into income (58) (60) (59) |
Income Taxes
Income Taxes | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2018 | |
Income Taxes [Abstract] | |
Income Taxes [Text Block] | NOTE 1 3 . INCOME TAXES The Tax Cuts and Jobs Acts (the Act) was enacted on December 22, 2017. The Act reduces the U.S. federal corporate income tax rate from 35% to 21% and required companies to pay a one-time transition tax on earnings of certain foreign subsidiaries that were previously tax deferred. ASC 740, “Income Taxes,” requires effects of changes in tax rates to be recognized in the period enacted. Recognizing the late enactment of the Act and complexity of accurately accounting for its impa ct, the Securities and Exchange Commission in SAB 118 provided guidance that allowed registrants to provide a reasonable estimate of the Act in their financial statements at December 31, 2017 and adjust the reported impact in a measurement period not to ex ceed one year. In 2018, we completed our accounting for the tax effects of the enactment of the Act and the measurement of our deferred tax assets and liabilities based on the rates at which they were expected to reverse in the future; the total benefit w as $22,211, of which $20,271 was recorded in 2017 as a provisional amount. The total net benefit for the year ended December 31, 2018 was $718 for all enactment date and measurement period adjustments from the Act. The impact of the enactment of the Act i s reflected in the tables below. Significant components of our deferred tax liabilities (assets) are as follows at December 31: 2018 2017 Depreciation and amortization $ 43,105 $ 30,982 Licenses and nonamortizable intangibles 17,561 16,129 Employee benefits (5,366) (6,202) Deferred fulfillment costs 2,679 2,472 Net operating loss and other carryforwards (6,470) (6,067) Other – net 1,651 1,222 Subtotal 53,160 38,536 Deferred tax assets valuation allowance 4,588 4,640 Net deferred tax liabilities $ 57,748 $ 43,176 Noncurrent deferred tax liabilities $ 57,859 $ 43,207 Less: Noncurrent deferred tax assets (111) (31) Net deferred tax liabilities $ 57,748 $ 43,176 At December 31, 2018, we had combined net operating and capital loss carryforwards (tax effected) for federal income tax purposes of $179, state of $950 and foreign of $3,022, expiring through 2038. Additionally, we had federal credit carryforwards of $340 and state credit carryforwards of $1,979, expiring primarily through 2038. We recognize a valuation allowance if, based on the weight of available evidence, it is more likely than not that some portion, or all, of a deferred tax asset will not be realized. Our valuation allowances at December 31, 2018 and 2017 related primarily to state and foreign net operating losses and state credit carryforwards. The Company considers post-1986 unremitted foreign earnings subjected to the one-time transition tax not to be indefinitely reinvested as such earnings can be repatriated without any significant incremental tax costs. U.S. income and foreign withholding taxes have not been recorded on temporary differences related to investments in certain foreign sub sidiaries as such differences are considered indefinitely reinvested. Determination of the amount of unrecognized deferred tax liability is not practicable. We recognize the financial statement effects of a tax return posi tion when it is more likely than not, based on the technical merits, that the position will ultimately be sustained. For tax positions that meet this recognition threshold, we apply our judgment, taking into account applicable tax laws, our experience in m anaging tax audits and relevant GAAP, to determine the amount of tax benefits to recognize in our financial statements. For each position, the difference between the benefit realized on our tax return and the benefit reflected in our financial statements i s recorded on our consolidated balance sheets as an unrecognized tax benefit (UTB). We update our UTBs at each financial statement date to reflect the impacts of audit settlements and other resolutions of audit issues, the expiration of statutes of limitat ion, developments in tax law and ongoing discussions with taxing authorities. A reconciliation of the change in our UTB balance from January 1 to December 31 for 2018 and 2017 is as follows: Federal, State and Foreign Tax 2018 2017 Balance at beginning of year $ 7,648 $ 6,516 Increases for tax positions related to the current year 336 1,438 Increases for tax positions related to prior years 2,615 200 Decreases for tax positions related to prior years (394) (461) Lapse of statute of limitations (52) (28) Settlements (664) (23) Current year acquisitions 872 - Foreign currency effects (3) 6 Balance at end of year 10,358 7,648 Accrued interest and penalties 2,588 1,333 Gross unrecognized income tax benefits 12,946 8,981 Less: Deferred federal and state income tax benefits (811) (388) Less: Tax attributable to timing items included above (3,430) (2,368) Less: UTBs included above that relate to acquired entities that would impact goodwill if recognized (918) - Total UTB that, if recognized, would impact the effective income tax rate as of the end of the year $ 7,787 $ 6,225 Periodically we make deposits to taxing jurisdictions which reduce our UTB balance but are not included in the reconciliation above. The amount of deposits that reduced our UTB balance was $2,115 at December 31, 2018 and $3,058 at December 31, 2017. Accrued interest and penalties included in UTBs were $2,588 as of December 31, 2018, and $1,333 as of December 31, 2017. We record interest and penalties related to federal, state and foreign UTBs in income tax expense. The net interest and penalty expense included in income tax expense was $1,290 for 2018, $107 for 2017 and $24 for 2016. We file income tax returns in the U.S. federal jurisdiction and various state, local and foreign jurisdictions. As a large taxpayer, our income tax returns are regularly audited by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and other taxing authorities. The IRS has completed field examinations of our tax returns through 2010. All audit periods prior to 2003 are closed for federal examination purposes. Contested issues from our 200 3 through 2010 returns are at various stages of resolution with the IRS Appeals Division. While we do not expect material changes, we are generally unable to estimate the range of impacts on the balance of uncertain tax positions or the impact on the effec tive tax rate from the resolution of these issues until the close of the examination process; and it is possible that the amount of unrecognized benefit with respect to our uncertain tax positions could increase or decrease within the next 12 months. The components of income tax (benefit) expense are as follows: 2018 2017 2016 Federal: Current $ 3,258 $ 682 $ 2,915 Deferred 277 (17,970) 3,127 3,535 (17,288) 6,042 State and local: Current 513 79 282 Deferred 473 1,041 339 986 1,120 621 Foreign: Current 539 471 335 Deferred (140) 989 (519) 399 1,460 (184) Total $ 4,920 $ (14,708) $ 6,479 “Income Before Income Taxes” in the Consolidated Statements of Income included the following components for the years ended December 31 : 2018 2017 2016 U.S. income before income taxes $ 25,379 $ 16,438 $ 20,911 Foreign income (loss) before income taxes (506) (1,299) (1,099) Total $ 24,873 $ 15,139 $ 19,812 A reconciliation of income tax expense (benefit) and the amount computed by applying the statutory federal income tax rate (21% for 2018 and 35% for 2017 and 2016) to income from continuing operations before income taxes is as follows: 2018 2017 2016 Taxes computed at federal statutory rate $ 5,223 $ 5,299 $ 6,934 Increases (decreases) in income taxes resulting from: State and local income taxes – net of federal income tax benefit 738 509 416 Enactment date and measurement period adjustments from the Act (718) (20,271) - Tax on foreign investments (466) 73 168 Mexico restructuring - - (471) Other – net 143 (318) (568) Total $ 4,920 $ (14,708) $ 6,479 Effective Tax Rate 19.8 % (97.2) % 32.7 % |
Pension And Postretirement Bene
Pension And Postretirement Benefits | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2018 | |
Pension And Postretirement Benefits | |
Pension And Postretirement Benefits [Text Block] | NOTE 14. PENSION AND POSTRETIREMENT BENEFITS We offer noncontributory pension programs covering the majority of domestic nonman a gement employees in our Communications business. Nonmanagement employees’ pension benefits are generally calculated using one of two formulas: a flat dollar amount applied to years of service according to job classification or a cash balance plan with negotiated annual pension band credits as well as interest credits . Most employees can elect to receive their pension benefits in either a lump sum payment or an annuity. Pension programs covering U.S. management employees are closed to new entrants. These programs continue to provide benefits to participants that were generally hired before January 1, 2015, who receive benefits under either cash balance pension programs that include annual or monthly credits based on salary as well as interest credits, or a traditional pension formula (i.e., a stated percentage of emplo yees’ adjusted career income). We also provide a variety of medical, dental and life insurance benefits to certain retired employees under various plans and accrue actuarially determined postretirement benefit costs as active employees earn these benefits . We acquired Time Warner on June 14, 2018. WarnerMedia and certain of its subsidiaries have both funded and unfunded defined benefit pension plans, the substantial majority of which are noncontributory plans covering domestic employees. WarnerMedia also sponsors unfunded domestic postretirement benefit plans covering certain retirees and their dependents. The plans were closed to new entrants and frozen for new accruals. We have recorded the fair value of the WarnerMedia plans using assumptions and accoun ting policies consistent with those disclosed by AT&T. Upon acquisition, the excess of projected benefit obligation over the plan assets was recognized as a liability and previously existing deferred actuarial gains and losses and unrecognized service cost s or benefits were eliminated. During 2018, we communicated and reflected in results the following plan changes to participants: (1) substantive plan changes involving the frequency of future health reimbursement account credit increases, and (2) a May 20 18 written plan change involving the ability of certain participants of the pension plan to receive their benefit in a lump-sum amount upon retirement. Obligations and Funded Status For defined benefit pension plans, the benefit obligation is the project ed benefit obligation, the actuarial present value, as of our December 31 measurement date, of all benefits attributed by the pension benefit formula to employee service rendered to that date. The amount of benefit to be paid depends on a number of future events incorporated into the pension benefit formula, including estimates of the average life of employees and their beneficiaries and average years of service rendered. It is measured based on assumptions concerning future interest rates and future emplo yee compensation levels as applicable. For postretirement benefit plans, the benefit obligation is the accumulated postretirement benefit obligation, the actuarial present value as of the measurement date of all future benefits attributed under the term s of the postretirement benefit plan to employee service. The following table presents the change in the projected benefit obligation for the years ended December 31 : Pension Benefits Postretirement Benefits 2018 2017 2018 2017 Benefit obligation at beginning of year $ 59,294 $ 56,183 $ 24,059 $ 26,027 Service cost - benefits earned during the period 1,116 1,128 109 138 Interest cost on projected benefit obligation 2,092 1,936 778 809 Amendments 50 48 (1,145) (1,807) Actuarial (gain) loss (5,046) 3,696 (2,815) 630 Special termination benefits 1 3 1 1 Benefits paid (4,632) (3,705) (1,680) (1,739) Acquisitions 2,559 - 71 - Plan transfers 5 5 - - Benefit obligation at end of year $ 55,439 $ 59,294 $ 19,378 $ 24,059 The following table presents the change in the fair value of plan assets for the years ended December 31 and the plans’ funded status at December 31 : Pension Benefits Postretirement Benefits 2018 2017 2018 2017 Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year $ 45,463 $ 42,610 $ 5,973 $ 5,921 Actual return on plan assets (1,044) 5,987 (218) 607 Benefits paid 1 (4,632) (3,705) (1,503) (1,055) Contributions 9,307 566 25 500 Acquisitions 2,582 - - - Plan transfers 5 5 - - Fair value of plan assets at end of year 51,681 45,463 4,277 5,973 Unfunded status at end of year 2 $ (3,758) $ (13,831) $ (15,101) $ (18,086) 1 At our discretion, certain postretirement benefits may be paid from AT&T cash accounts, which does not reduce Voluntary Employee Benefit Association (VEBA) assets. Future benefit payments may be made from VEBA trusts and thus reduce those asset balances. 2 Funded status is not indicative of our ability to pay ongoing pension benefits or of our obligation to fund retirement trusts. Required pension funding is determined in accordance with the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended (ERISA) and applicable regulations. In 2013, we made a voluntary contribution of preferred equity interest in AT&T Mobility II LLC (Mobility II), the primary holding company for our wireless business, to the trust used to pay pension benefits under certain of our qualified pension plans. In 2018, we simplified transferability and enhanced marketability of the preferred equity interest, which resulted in it being recognized as a plan asset in our consolidated financial statements and reflected a noncash contribution of $8,803 included as “Con tributions” in the above table. Since 2013, the preferred equity interest was a plan asset under ERISA and has been recognized as such in the plan’s separate financial statements. (See Note 16). Amounts recognized on our consolidated balance sheets at December 31 are listed below : Pension Benefits Postretirement Benefits 2018 2017 2018 2017 Current portion of employee benefit obligation 1 $ - $ - $ (1,464) $ (1,585) Employee benefit obligation 2 (3,758) (13,831) (13,637) (16,501) Net amount recognized $ (3,758) $ (13,831) $ (15,101) $ (18,086) 1 Included in "Accounts payable and accrued liabilities." 2 Included in "Postemployment benefit obligation." The accumulated benefit obligation for our pension plans represents the actuarial present value of benefits based on employee service and compensation as of a certain date and does not include an assumption about future compensation levels. The accumulated benefit obligation for our pension plans was $53,963 at December 31, 2018 , and $57,488 at December 31, 2017 . Net Periodic Benefit Cost and Other Amounts Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income Periodic Benefit Costs Our combined net pension and postretirement cost (credit) recognized in our consolidated statements of income was $(4,251), $1 55 and $ 303 for the years ended December 31, 2018 , 2017 and 2016 . The following table presents the components of net periodic benefit cost: Pension Benefits Postretirement Benefits 2018 2017 2016 2018 2017 2016 Service cost – benefits earned during the period $ 1,116 $ 1,128 $ 1,112 $ 109 $ 138 $ 192 Interest cost on projected benefit obligation 2,092 1,936 1,980 778 809 972 Expected return on assets (3,190) (3,134) (3,115) (304) (319) (355) Amortization of prior service credit (115) (123) (103) (1,635) (1,466) (1,277) Actuarial (gain) loss (812) 844 1,478 (2,290) 342 (581) Net pension and postretirement cost (credit) $ (909) $ 651 $ 1,352 $ (3,342) $ (496) $ (1,049) Other Changes in Benefit Obligations Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income The following table presents the after-tax changes in benefit obligations recognized in OCI and the after-tax prior service credits that were amortized from OCI into net periodic benefit costs: Pension Benefits Postretirement Benefits 2018 2017 2016 2018 2017 2016 Balance at beginning of year $ 571 $ 575 $ 512 $ 6,456 $ 5,089 $ 5,510 Prior service (cost) credit (37) (30) 128 864 1,120 372 Amortization of prior service credit (87) (76) (65) (1,234) (907) (793) Total recognized in other comprehensive (income) loss (124) (106) 63 (370) 213 (421) Adoption of ASU 2018-02 - 102 - - 1,154 - Balance at end of year $ 447 $ 571 $ 575 $ 6,086 $ 6,456 $ 5,089 Assumptions In determining the projected benefit obligation and the net pension and postretirement benefit cost, we used the following significant weighted-average assumptions: Pension Benefits Postretirement Benefits 2018 2017 2016 2018 2017 2016 Weighted-average discount rate for determining benefit obligation at December 31 4.50 % 3.80 % 4.40 % 4.40 % 3.70 % 4.30 % Discount rate in effect for determining service cost 1,2 4.20 % 4.60 % 4.90 % 4.30 % 4.60 % 5.00 % Discount rate in effect for determining interest cost 1,2 3.80 % 3.60 % 3.70 % 3.60 % 3.40 % 3.60 % Weighted-average interest crediting rate for cash balance pension programs 3 3.70 % 3.50 % 3.50 % - % - % - % Long-term rate of return on plan assets 7.00 % 7.75 % 7.75 % 5.75 % 5.75 % 5.75 % Composite rate of compensation increase for determining benefit obligation 3.00 % 3.00 % 3.00 % 3.00 % 3.00 % 3.00 % Composite rate of compensation increase for determining net cost (benefit) 3.00 % 3.00 % 3.10 % 3.00 % 3.00 % 3.10 % 1 Weighted-average discount rate for pension benefits in effect from January 1, 2018 through May 31, 2018 was 4.00% for service cost and 3.40% for interest costs, and, from June 1, 2018 through December 31, 2018 was 4.40% for service cost and 4.00% for interest cost. 2 Weighted-average discount rate for postretirement benefits in effect from January 1, 2018 through February 28, 2018 was 4.00% for service costs and 3.30% for interest costs, and, from March 1, 2018 through December 31, 2018 was 4.30% for service cost and 3.70% for interest cost. 3 Weighted-average interest crediting rates for cash balance pension programs relate only to the cash balance portion of total pension benefits. A 0.50% increase in the weighted-average interest crediting rate would increase the pension benefit obligation by $130. We recognize gains and losses on pension and postretirement plan assets and obligations immediately in our operating results. These gains and losses are measured annually as of December 31 and accordingly will be recorded during the fourth quarter, unless earlier remeasurements are required. Discount Rate Our assumed weighted-average discount rate for pension and postretirement benefits of 4.50% and 4.40% respectively, at December 31, 2018, reflects the hypothetical rate at which the projected benefit obl igation could be effectively settled or paid out to participants. We determined our discount rate based on a range of factors, including a yield curve composed of the rates of return on several hundred high-quality, fixed income corporate bonds available a t the measurement date and corresponding to the related expected durations of future cash outflows. These bonds were all rated at least Aa3 or AA- by one of the nationally recognized statistical rating organizations, denominated in U.S. dollars, and neithe r callable, convertible nor index linked. For the year ended December 31, 2018, when compared to the year ended December 31, 2017, we increased our pension discount rate by 0.70%, resulting in a decrease in our pension plan benefit obligation of $4,394 and increased our postretirement discount rate by 0.70%, resulting in a decrease in our postretirement benefit obligation of $1,509. For the year ended December 31, 2017, we decreased our pension discount rate by 0.60%, resulting in an increase in our pension plan benefit obligation of $4,609 and decreased our postretirement discount rates by 0.60%, resulting in an increase in our postretirement benefit obligation of $1,605. We utilize a full yield curve approach in the estimation of the service and interest components of net periodic benefit costs for pension and other postretirement benefits. Under this approach, we apply discounting using individual spot rates from a yield curve composed of the rates of return on several hundred high-quality, fixed income c orporate bonds available at the measurement date. These spot rates align to each of the projected benefit obligations and service cost cash flows. The service cost component relates to the active participants in the plan, so the relevant cash flows on whic h to apply the yield curve are considerably longer in duration on average than the total projected benefit obligation cash flows, which also include benefit payments to retirees. Interest cost is computed by multiplying each spot rate by the corresponding discounted projected benefit obligation cash flows. The full yield curve approach reduces any actuarial gains and losses based upon interest rate expectations (e.g., built-in gains in interest cost in an upward sloping yield curve scenario), or gains and l osses merely resulting from the timing and magnitude of cash outflows associated with our benefit obligations. Neither the annual measurement of our total benefit obligations nor annual net benefit cost is affected by the full yield curve approach. Expect ed Long-Term Rate of Return In 2019, our expected long-term rate of return is 7.00% on pension plan assets and 5.75% on postretirement plan assets. Our long-term rates of return reflect the average rate of earnings expected on the funds invested, or to be invested, to provide for the benefits included in the projected benefit obligations. In setting the long-term assumed rate of return, management considers capital markets future expectations, the asset mix of the plans' investment and average historical as set return. Actual long-term returns can, in relatively stable markets, also serve as a factor in determining future expectations. We consider many factors that include, but are not limited to, historical returns on plan assets, current market information on long-term returns (e.g., long-term bond rates) and current and target asset allocations between asset categories. The target asset allocation is determined based on consultations with external investment advisers. If all other factors were to remain unc hanged, we expect that a 0.50% decrease in the expected long-term rate of return would cause 2019 combined pension and postretirement cost to increase $265. However, any differences in the rate and actual returns will be included with the actuarial gain or loss recorded in the fourth quarter when our plans are remeasured. Composite Rate of Compensation Increase Our expected composite rate of compensation increase cost of 3.00% in 2018 and 2017 reflects the long-term average rate of salary increases. Morta lity Tables At December 31, 2018, we updated our assumed mortality rates to reflect our best estimate of future mortality, which decreased our pension obligation by $488 and our postretirement obligations by $61. At December 31, 2017, we updated our assume d mortality rates, which decreased our pension obligation by $355 and our postretirement obligations by $95. Healthcare Cost Trend Our healthcare cost trend assumptions are developed based on historical cost data, the near-term outlook and an assessment o f likely long-term trends. Based on historical experience, updated expectations of healthcare industry inflation and recent prescription drug cost experience, our 2019 assumed annual healthcare prescription drug cost trend and medical cost trend for eligib le participants will remain at an assumed annual and ultimate trend rate of 4.50%. In addition to the healthcare cost trend in 2018, we assumed an annual 2.50% growth in administrative expenses and an annual 3.00% growth in dental claims. Plan Assets Plan assets consist primarily of private and public equity, government and corporate bonds, and real assets (real estate and natural resources). The asset allocations of the pension plans are maintained to meet ERISA requirements. Any plan contributions, as determined by ERISA regulations, are made to a pension trust for the benefit of plan participants. We do not have significant ERISA required contributions to our pension plans for 2019. We made a discretionary contribution of $80 to our pension trust in October 2018. We maintain VEBA trusts to partially fund postretirement benefits; however, there are no ERISA or regulatory requirements that these postretirement benefit plans be funded annually. The principal investment objectives are to ensure the availability of funds to pay pension and postretirement benefits as they become due under a broad range of future economic scenarios, maximize long-term investment return with an acceptable level of risk based on our pension and postretiremen t obligations, and diversify broadly across and within the capital markets to insulate asset values against adverse experience in any one market. Each asset class has broadly diversified characteristics. Substantial biases toward any particular investing s tyle or type of security are sought to be avoided by managing the aggregation of all accounts with portfolio benchmarks. Asset and benefit obligation forecasting studies are conducted periodically, generally every two to three years, or when significant ch anges have occurred in market conditions, benefits, participant demographics or funded status. Decisions regarding investment policy are made with an understanding of the effect of asset allocation on funded status, future contributions and projected expen ses. The plans’ weighted-average asset targets and actual allocations as a percentage of plan assets, including the notional exposure of future contracts by asset categories at December 31, are as follows: Pension Assets Postretirement (VEBA) Assets Target 2018 2017 Target 2018 2017 Equity securities: Domestic 15 % - 25 % 16 % 23 % 20 % - 30 % 25 % 21 % International 7 % - 17 % 12 16 13 % - 23 % 18 15 Fixed income securities 29 % - 39 % 37 41 34 % - 44 % 39 40 Real assets 4 % - 14 % 9 10 - % - 6 % 1 1 Private equity 2 % - 12 % 8 10 - % - 7 % 2 2 Preferred interest 13 % - 23 % 18 - - % - - % - - Other - % - 5 % - - 10 % - 20 % 15 21 Total 100 % 100 % 100 % 100 % At December 31, 2018, AT&T securities represented less than 18 % of assets held by our pension trust , including preferred interest in Mobility II, and 4 % of assets (primarily common stock) held by our VEBA trusts included in these financial statements. Investment Valuation Investments are stated at fair value. Fair value is the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability at the measurement date. Investments in securities traded on a national securities exchange are valu ed at the last reported sales price on the final business day of the year. If no sale was reported on that date, they are valued at the last reported bid price. Investments in securities not traded on a national securities exchange are valued using pricing models, quoted prices of securities with similar characteristics or discounted cash flows. Shares of registered investment companies are valued based on quoted market prices, which represent the net asset value of shares held at year-end. Other commingle d investment entities are valued at quoted redemption values that represent the net asset values of units held at year-end which management has determined approximates fair value. Real estate and natural resource direct investments are valued at amounts b ased upon appraisal reports. Fixed income securities valuation is based upon observable prices for comparable assets, broker/dealer quotes (spreads or prices), or a pricing matrix that derives spreads for each bond based on external market data, including the current credit rating for the bonds, credit spreads to Treasuries for each credit rating, sector add-ons or credits, issue-specific add-ons or credits as well as call or other options. The preferred interest is valued using an income approach. Purcha ses and sales of securities are recorded as of the trade date. Realized gains and losses on sales of securities are determined on the basis of average cost. Interest income is recognized on the accrual basis. Dividend income is recognized on the ex-dividen d date. Non-interest bearing cash and overdrafts are valued at cost, which approximates fair value. Fair Value Measurements See Note 12 for a discussion of fair value hierarchy that prioritizes the inputs to valuation techniques used to measure fair valu e. The following tables set forth by level, within the fair value hierarchy, the pension and postretirement assets and liabilities at fair value as of December 31, 2018: Pension Assets and Liabilities at Fair Value as of December 31, 2018 Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Total Non-interest bearing cash $ 52 $ - $ - $ 52 Interest bearing cash 167 41 - 208 Foreign currency contracts - 5 - 5 Equity securities: Domestic equities 6,912 - 1 6,913 International equities 3,594 8 - 3,602 Preferred interest - - 8,749 8,749 Fixed income securities: Corporate bonds and other investments - 10,719 4 10,723 Government and municipal bonds 51 6,170 - 6,221 Mortgage-backed securities - 382 - 382 Real estate and real assets - - 2,579 2,579 Securities lending collateral 12 1,466 - 1,478 Purchased options, futures, and swaps - 3 - 3 Receivable for variation margin 19 - - 19 Assets at fair value 10,807 18,794 11,333 40,934 Investments sold short and other liabilities at fair value (657) (6) - (663) Total plan net assets at fair value $ 10,150 $ 18,788 $ 11,333 $ 40,271 Assets held at net asset value practical expedient Private equity funds 4,384 Real estate funds 2,162 Commingled funds 5,740 Total assets held at net asset value practical expedient 12,286 Other assets (liabilities) 1 (876) Total Plan Net Assets $ 51,681 1 Other assets (liabilities) include amounts receivable, accounts payable and net adjustment for securities lending payable. Postretirement Assets and Liabilities at Fair Value as of December 31, 2018 Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Total Interest bearing cash $ 45 $ 624 $ - $ 669 Equity securities: Domestic equities 745 8 - 753 International equities 541 - 1 542 Fixed income securities: Corporate bonds and other investments 7 602 11 620 Government and municipal bonds 2 377 1 380 Mortgage-backed securities - 283 - 283 Securities lending collateral - 63 - 63 Assets at fair value 1,340 1,957 13 3,310 Securities lending payable and other liabilities - (74) - (74) Total plan net assets at fair value $ 1,340 $ 1,883 $ 13 $ 3,236 Assets held at net asset value practical expedient Private equity funds 79 Real estate funds 36 Commingled funds 973 Total assets held at net asset value practical expedient 1,088 Other assets (liabilities) 1 (47) Total Plan Net Assets $ 4,277 1 Other assets (liabilities) include amounts receivable and accounts payable. The tables below set forth a summary of changes in the fair value of the Level 3 pension and postretirement assets for the year ended December 31, 2018 : Pension Assets Equities Fixed Income Funds Real Estate and Real Assets Total Balance at beginning of year $ 4 $ 2 $ 2,287 $ 2,293 Realized gains (losses) - - 120 120 Unrealized gains (losses) (408) (1) 170 (239) Transfers in 9,158 1 266 9,425 Transfers out (4) (1) - (5) Purchases - 8 85 93 Sales - (5) (349) (354) Balance at end of year $ 8,750 $ 4 $ 2,579 $ 11,333 Postretirement Assets Equities Fixed Income Funds Real Estate and Real Assets Total Balance at beginning of year $ - $ 5 $ - $ 5 Transfers in 1 8 - 9 Transfers out - (1) - (1) Purchases - 1 - 1 Sales - (1) - (1) Balance at end of year $ 1 $ 12 $ - $ 13 The following tables set forth by level, within the fair value hierarchy, the pension and postretirement assets and liabilities at fair value as of December 31, 2017 : Pension Assets and Liabilities at Fair Value as of December 31, 2017 Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Total Non-interest bearing cash $ 96 $ - $ - $ 96 Interest bearing cash 7 20 - 27 Foreign currency contracts - 2 - 2 Equity securities: Domestic equities 9,441 - 4 9,445 International equities 4,967 1 - 4,968 Fixed income securities: Corporate bonds and other investments 48 10,520 2 10,570 Government and municipal bonds - 5,751 - 5,751 Mortgage-backed securities - 765 - 765 Real estate and real assets - - 2,287 2,287 Securities lending collateral 8 2,240 - 2,248 Receivable for variation margin 6 - - 6 Assets at fair value 14,573 19,299 2,293 36,165 Investments sold short and other liabilities at fair value (497) (4) - (501) Total plan net assets at fair value $ 14,076 $ 19,295 $ 2,293 $ 35,664 Assets held at net asset value practical expedient Private equity funds 4,493 Real estate funds 2,340 Commingled funds 5,142 Total assets held at net asset value practical expedient 11,975 Other assets (liabilities) 1 (2,176) Total Plan Net Assets $ 45,463 1 Other assets (liabilities) include amounts receivable, accounts payable and net adjustment for securities lending payable. Postretirement Assets and Liabilities at Fair Value as of December 31, 2017 Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Total Interest bearing cash $ 603 $ 714 $ - $ 1,317 Equity securities: Domestic equities 857 9 - 866 International equities 600 - - 600 Fixed income securities: Corporate bonds and other investments 8 607 4 619 Government and municipal bonds - 445 - 445 Mortgage-backed securities - 308 1 309 Securities lending collateral - 120 - 120 Assets at fair value 2,068 2,203 5 4,276 Securities lending payable and other liabilities - (121) - (121) Total plan net assets at fair value $ 2,068 $ 2,082 $ 5 $ 4,155 Assets held at net asset value practical expedient Private equity funds 102 Real estate funds 41 Commingled funds 1,750 Total assets held at net asset value practical expedient 1,893 Other assets (liabilities) 1 (75) Total Plan Net Assets $ 5,973 1 Other assets (liabilities) include amounts receivable and accounts payable. The tables below set forth a summary of changes in the fair value of the Level 3 pension and postretirement assets for the year ended December 31, 2017 : Pension Assets Equities Fixed Income Funds Real Estate and Real Assets Total Balance at beginning of year $ 1 $ 40 $ 2,273 $ 2,314 Realized gains (losses) 1 - (73) (72) Unrealized gains (losses) (2) 1 216 215 Transfers in - - 25 25 Transfers out - (32) - (32) Purchases 5 - 157 162 Sales (1) (7) (311) (319) Balance at end of year $ 4 $ 2 $ 2,287 $ 2,293 Postretirement Assets Fixed Income Funds Total Balance at beginning of year $ 26 $ 26 Transfers out (15) (15) Purchases 2 2 Sales (8) (8) Balance at end of year $ 5 $ 5 Estimated Future Benefit Payments Expected benefit payments are estimated using the same assumptions used in determining our benefit obligation at December 31, 2018 . Because benefit payments will depend on future employment and compensation levels ; average years employed ; average life spans ; and payment elections, among other factors, changes in any of these assumptions could significantly affect these expected amounts. The following table provides expected benefit payments under our pension and post retirement plans: Pension Benefits Postretirement Benefits 2019 $ 5,399 $ 1,637 2020 4,835 1,633 2021 4,750 1,582 2022 4,642 1,515 2023 4,508 1,463 Years 2024 - 2028 21,320 6,358 Supplemental Retirement Plans We also provide certain senior- and middle-management employees with nonqualified, unfunded supplemental retirement and savings plans. While these plans are unfunded, we have assets in a designated non-bankruptcy remote trust that are independently managed and used to provide for certain of these benefits. These plans include supplemental pension benefits as well as compensation-deferral plans, some of which include a corresponding match by us based on a percentage of the comp ensation deferral. For our supplemental retirement plans, the projected benefit obligation was $2,397 and the net supplemental retirement pension credit was $53 at and for the year ended December 31, 2018. The projected benefit obligation was $2,344 and th e net supplemental retirement pension cost was $215 at and for the year ended December 31, 2017. We use the same significant assumptions for the composite rate of compensation increase in determining our projected benefit obligation and the net pension an d postemployment benefit cost. Our discount rates of 4.40% at December 31, 2018 and 3.70% at December 31, 2017 were calculated using the same methodologies used in calculating the discount rate for our qualified pension and postretirement benefit plans. D eferred compensation expense wa s $128 in 2018, $138 in 2017 and $148 in 2016. Contributory Savings Plans We maintain contributory savings plans that cover substantially all employees. Under the savings plans, we match in cash or company stock a stated per centage of eligible employee contributions, subject to a specified ceiling. There are no debt-financed shares held by the Employee Stock Ownership Plans, allocated or unallocated. Our match of employee contributions to the savings plans is fulfilled with purchases of our stock on the open market or company cash. Benefit cost, which is based on the cost of shares or units allocated to participating employees' accounts or the cash contributed to participant accounts, was $724, $703 and $631 for the years end ed December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016. The increases in 2018 are attributable to our acquisition of Time Warner. |
Share-Based Payment
Share-Based Payment | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2018 | |
Share-Based Payment | |
Share-Based Payment [Text Block] | NOTE 1 5 . SHARE-BASED PAYMENTS Under our various plans, senior and other management employees and nonemployee directors have received n onvested stock and stock units. In conjunction with the acquisition of Time Warner, restricted stock units issued under Time Warner plans were converted to AT&T share units that will be distributed in the form of AT&T common stock and cash. The shares will vest over a period of one to four years in accordance with the terms of those plans . In additio n, outstanding Time Warner stock options were converted to AT&T stock options that will vest within one year. We do not intend to issue any additional grants und er the Time Warner Inc. plans. Future grants to eligible employees will be issued u nder AT&T plans. We grant performance stock units, which are nonvested stock units, based upon our stock price at the date of grant and award them in the form of AT&T common stock and cash at the end of a three-year period, subject to the achievement of c ertain performance goals. We treat the cash settled portion of these awards as a liability. We grant forfeitable restricted stock and stock units, which are valued at the market price of our common stock at the date of grant and predominantly vest over a f our- or five-year period. We also grant other nonvested stock units and award them in cash at the end of a three-year period, subject to the achievement of certain market based conditions. As of December 31, 2018 , we were authorized to issue up to approxim ately 313 m illion shares of common stock (in addition to shares that may be issued upon exercise of outstanding options or upon vesting of performance stock units or other nonvested stock units) to officers, employees and directors pursuant to these variou s plans. We account for our share-based payment arrangements based on the fair value of the awards on their respective grant date , which may affect our ability to fully realize the value shown on our consolidated balance sheets of deferred tax assets asso ciated with compensation expense. We record a valuation allowance when our future taxable income is not expected to be sufficient to recover the asset. Accordingly, there can be no assurance that the current stock price of our common shares will rise to le vels sufficient to realize the entire tax benefit currently reflected on our consolidated balance sheets. However, to the extent we generate excess tax benefits (i.e., that additional tax benefits in excess of the deferred taxes associated with compensatio n expense previously recognized) the potential future impact on income would be reduced. Our consolidated statements of income include the compensation cost recognized for those plans as operating expenses, as well as the associated tax benefits, which ar e reflected in the table below : 2018 2017 2016 Performance stock units $ 301 $ 395 $ 480 Restricted stock and stock units 153 90 152 Other nonvested stock units 4 (5) 21 Stock options 5 - - Total $ 463 $ 480 $ 653 Income tax benefit $ 114 $ 184 $ 250 A summary of the status of our nonvested stock units as of December 31, 2018 , and changes during the year then ended is presented as follows (shares in millions): Nonvested Stock Units Shares Weighted-Average Grant-Date Fair Value Nonvested at January 1, 2018 29 $ 38.35 Granted 15 35.53 Issued in Time Warner acquisition 17 41.23 Vested (20) 38.50 Forfeited (2) 38.11 Nonvested at December 31, 2018 39 $ 38.44 As of December 31, 2018 , there was $ 638 of total unrecognized compensation cost related to nonvested share-based payment arrangements granted. That cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 2.08 years. The total fair value of shares vested during the year was $766 for 2018 , compared to $473 for 2017 and $614 for 2016 . It is our intent to satisfy share option exercises using our treasury stock. Cash received from stock option exercises was $361 for 2018, $33 for 2017 and $179 for 2016 . |
Stockholders' Equity
Stockholders' Equity | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2018 | |
Stockholder's Equity | |
Stockholders' Equity [Text Block] | NOTE 16. STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY Stock Repurchase Program From time to time, we repurchase shares of common stock for distribution through our employee benefit plans or in connection with certain acquisitions. Our Board of Directors approved authorizations in both March 2013 and 2014 that allow us to repurchase 300 million shares of our common stock under each program. For the year ended December 31, 2018 , we had repurchased approximately 13 million shares for distribution through our employee b enefit plans totaling $419 under the authorizations. At December 31, 2018, we had approximately 376 million shares remaining from these authorizations. For the year ended December 31, 2017 , we had repurchased approximately 7 million shares tot aling $279 under the authorizations. To implement these authorizations, we used open market repurchase programs, relying on Rule 10b5-1 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 where feasible. Dividend Declarations In December 2018, the Company declared an increase in its quarterly dividend to $0.51 per share of common stock. In December 2017, the Company declared an increase in its quarterly dividend to $0.50 per share of common stock. Preferred Equity Interest We have issued 320 million Series A Cum ulative Perpetual Preferred Membership Interests in Mobility II, representing all currently outstanding preferred equity interest, which pay cash distributions of $560 per annum, subject to declaration. The terms of the preferred equity interest and relate d documents were modified in 2018 to simplify transferability and enhance marketability. A holder of the preferred equity interest may put the preferred equity interest to Mobility II on or after the earliest of certain events or September 9, 2020. Mobil ity II may redeem the preferred equity interest upon a change in control of Mobility II or on or after September 9, 2022. When either options arise due to a passage of time, that option may be exercised only during certain periods. The price at which a pu t option or a redemption option can be exercised is the greater of (1) the market value of the interest as of the last date of the quarter preceding the date of the exercise of a put or redemption option and (2) the sum of (a) twenty-five dollars ($8,000 i n the aggregate) plus (b) any accrued and unpaid distributions. The redemption price may be paid with cash, AT&T Inc. common stock, or a combination of cash and AT&T Inc. common stock, at Mobility II’s sole election. In no event shall Mobility II be requir ed to deliver more than 250 million shares of AT&T common stock to settle put and redemption options. We have the intent and ability to settle the preferred equity interest with cash . So long as th e distributions are declared and paid, the terms of the preferred equity interest will not impose any limitations on cash movements between affiliates, or our ability to declare a dividend on or repurchase AT&T shares. |
Sale of Equipment Installment R
Sale of Equipment Installment Receivables | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2018 | |
Other Assets [Abstract] | |
Finance Receivables Disclosure [Text Block] | NOTE 1 7 . SALES OF EQUIPMENT INSTALLMENT RECEIVABLES We offer our customers the option to purchase certain wireless devices in installments over a specified period of time and, in many cases, once certain conditions are met, they may be eligible to trade in the original equipment for a new device and have the remaining unpaid balance paid or settled. As of December 31, 201 8 and December 31, 201 7 , gross equipme nt installment receivables of $5,994 and $ 6,079 were included on our consolidated balance sheets, of which $ 3,457 and $3, 340 are notes receivable that are included in “Accounts receivable - net.” In 2014, we entered into an uncommitted agreement pertaining to the sale of equipment installment receivables and related security with Citibank and various other relationship banks as purchasers (collectively, the Purchasers). Under this agreement, we transfer certain receivables to the Purchasers for cash and additional consideration upon settlement of the receivables, referred to as the deferred purchase pr ice. Since 2014, we have made beneficial modifications to the agreement. During 2017, we modified the agreement and entered into a second uncommitted agreement with the Purchasers such that we receive more upfront cash consideration at the time the receiva bles are transferred to the Purchasers. Additionally, in the event a customer trades in a device prior to the end of the installment contract period, we agree to make a payment to the Purchasers equal to any outstanding remaining installment receivable bal ance. Accordingly, we record a guarantee obligation to the Purchasers for this estimated amount at the time the receivables are transferred. Under the terms of the agreement, we continue to bill and collect the payments from our customers on behalf of the Purchasers. As of December 31, 2018 , total cash proceeds received, net of remittances (excluding amounts returned as deferred purchase price), were $ 6,508 . The following table sets forth a summary of equipment installment receivables sold: 2018 2017 2016 Gross receivables sold $ 9,391 $ 8,058 $ 7,629 Net receivables sold 1 8,871 7,388 6,913 Cash proceeds received 7,488 5,623 4,574 Deferred purchase price recorded 1,578 2,077 2,368 Guarantee obligation recorded 361 215 - 1 Receivables net of allowance, imputed interest and trade-in right guarantees. The deferred purchase price and guarantee obligation are initially recorded at estimated fair value and subsequently carried at the lower of cost or net realizable value. The estimation of their fair values is based on remaining installment payments expected to be collected and the expected timing and value of device trade-ins. The estimated value of the device trade-ins considers prices offered to us by independent third parties that contemplate changes in value after the launch of a device model. Th e fair value measurements used for the deferred purchase price and the guarantee obligation are considered Level 3 under the Fair Value Measurement and Disclosure framework (see Note 1 2 ). The following table shows the equipment installment receivables, pr eviously sold to the Purchasers, which we repurchased in exchange for the associated deferred purchase price and cash : 2018 2017 2016 Fair value of repurchased receivables $ 1,480 $ 1,699 $ 1,675 Carrying value of deferred purchase price 1,393 1,524 1,638 Gain (loss) on repurchases 1 $ 87 $ 175 $ 37 1 These gains (losses) are included in “Selling, general and administrative” in the consolidated statements of income. At December 31, 201 8 and December 31, 201 7 , our deferred purchase price receivable was $ 2,370 and $ 2,749 , respectively, of which $ 1,448 and $1, 781 are included in “Other current assets” on our consolidated balance sheets, with the remainder in “Other Assets.” The guarantee obligation at December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017 was $439 and $203, respectively, of which $196 and $55 are included in “Ac counts payable and accrued liabilities” on our consolidated balance sheets, with the remainder in “Other noncurrent liabilities.” Our maximum exposure to loss as a result of selling these equipment installment receivables is limited to the total amount of our deferred purchase price and guarantee obligation. The sales of equipment installment receivables did not have a material impact on our consolidated statements of income or to “Total Assets” reported on our consolidated balance sheets. We reflect cash receipts on owned equipment installment receivables as cash flows from operations in our consolidated statements of cash flows. With the retrospective adoption of ASU 2016-15 in 2018 (see Note 1), cash receipts on the deferred purchase price are now classi fied as cash flows from investing activities instead of cash flows from operating activities for all periods presented. The outstanding portfolio of installment receivables derecognized from our consolidated balance sheets, but which we continue to servic e, was $9,065 and $7,446 at December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017. |
Tower Transaction
Tower Transaction | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2018 | |
Other Liabilities [Abstract] | |
Other Liabilities Disclosure [Text Block] | NOTE 1 8 . TOWER TRANSACTION In December 2013, we closed our transaction with Crown Castle International Corp. (Crown Castle) in which Crown Castle gained the exclusive rights to lease and operate 9,048 wireless towers and purchased 627 of our wireless towers for $4,827 in cash. The leases have various terms with an average length of approximately 28 years. As the leases expire, Crown Castle will have fixed price purchase options for these towers totaling approximately $4,200, based on t heir estimated fair market values at the end of the lease terms. We sublease space on the towers from Crown Castle for an initial term of ten years at current market rates, subject to optional renewals in the future. We determined our continuing involveme nt with the tower assets prevented us from achieving sale-leaseback accounting for the transaction, and we account ed for the cash proceeds from Crown Castle as a financing obligation on our consolidated balance sheets. We record interest on the financing o bligation using the effective interest method at a rate of approximately 3.9%. The financing obligation is increased by interest expense and estimated future net cash flows generated and retained by Crown Castle from operation of the tower sites, and reduc ed by our contractual payments. We continue to include the tower assets in “Property, plant and equipment” on our consolidated balance sheets and depreciate them accordingly. At December 31 , 2018 and 2017, the tower assets had a balance of $843 and $882, r espectively. Our depreciation expense for these assets was $39 for each of 2018, 2017 and 2016. Payments made to Crown Castle under this arrangement were $239 for 2018. At December 31, 2018, the future minimum payments under the sublease arrangement are $ 244 for 201 9 , $ 248 for 2020 , $ 253 for 2021 , $ 258 for 2022, $264 for 2023 and $ 1,530 thereafter. |
FirstNet
FirstNet | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2018 | |
Contractors | |
Long-term Contracts or Programs Disclosure [Text Block] | NOTE 19 . FIRSTNET In March 2017, the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet) announced its selection of AT&T to build and manage the first nationwide broadband network dedicated to America’s firs t responders. A ll 56 jurisdictions, including 50 states, the District of Col umbia and five U.S. territories, elected to participate in the network. Under the awarded 2 5-year agreement, FirstNet provide d 20 MHz of valuable telecommunications spectrum and will provide success-based paymen ts of $6,500 over the first five years to support network buildout. The spectrum provides priority use to first responders, which are included as wireless subscribers and contribute to our wireless revenues. As allowed under the agreement, excess capacity on the spectrum is used for any of AT&T’s subscriber base. Under the agreement, we are required to construct a network that achieves coverage and nationwide interoperability requirements. We have a contractual commitment to make sustainability payments of $18,000 over the 25-year contract. These sustainability payments represent our commitment to fund FirstNet’s operating expenses and future reinvestments in the network which we will own and operate. FirstNet has a statutory requirement to reinvest funds that exceed the age ncy’s operating expenses, which are anticipated to be in the $75-$100 range annually, and when including increases for inflation, we expect to be in the $3,000 or less range over the life of the 25-year contract. Being subject to federal acquisition rules, FirstNet is prohibited from contractually committing to a specific vendor for future network reinvestment. However, it is highly probable that AT&T will receive substantially all of the funds reinvested into the network since AT&T will own and operate the infrastructure and have exclusive rights to use the spectrum as all states have opted in. After FirstNet’s operating expenses are paid, we anticipate that the remaining amount, expected to be in the $15,000 range, will be reinvested into the network. As of December 31, 2018 , we have submitted $240 in sustainability payments, with future payments under the agreement of $ 120 for 2019 , 2020 and 2021 ; $195 for 2022 and 2023; and $17,010 thereafter. Amounts paid to FirstNet which are not expected to be return ed to AT&T to be reinvested into our network will be expensed in the period paid. In the event FirstNet does not reinvest any funds to construct, operate, improve and maintain this network, our maximum exposure to loss is the total amount of the sustainabi lity payments, which would be reflected in higher expense. The $6,500 of initial funding from FirstNet is contingent on the achievement of six operating capability milestones and certain first responder subscriber adoption targets. These milestones are ba sed on coverage objectives of the first responder network during the construction period, which is expected to be over five years, and subscriber adoption targets. Funding payments to be received from FirstNet are reflected as a reduction from the costs ca pitalized in the construction of the network and, as appropriate, a reduction of associated operating expenses. As of December 31, 2018 , we have completed certain task orders related to the construction of the network and have collected $ 1,998 to date fro m FirstNet . We have reflected these amounts as a reduction to the costs incurred to complete the task orders. We anticipate collecting the remainder of the $6,500 from FirstNet as we achieve milestones set ou t by FirstNet over the next four years. |
Contingent Liabilities
Contingent Liabilities | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2018 | |
Contingent Liabilities | |
Contingent Liabilities [Text Block] | NOTE 20. CONTINGENT LIABILITIES We are party to numerous lawsuits, regulatory proceedings and other matters arising in the ordinary course of business. In evaluating these matters on an ongoing basis, we take into account amounts already accrued on the balance sheet. In our opinion, although the outcomes of these proceedings are uncertain, they should not have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows. We have contractual obligations to purc hase certain goods or services from various other parties. Our purchase obligations are expected to be approximately $ 16,172 in 2019 , $ 18,687 in total for 2020 and 2021 , $ 10,310 in total for 2022 and 2023 and $ 18,492 in total for years thereafter. See Note 1 2 for a discussion of collateral and credit-risk contingencies. |
Additional Financial Informatio
Additional Financial Information | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2018 | |
Additional Financial Information [Abstract] | |
Additional Financial Information [Text Block] | NOTE 21 . ADDITIONAL FINANCIAL INFORMATION December 31, Consolidated Balance Sheets 2018 2017 Current customer fulfillment costs (included in Other current assets) $ 4,090 $ 3,877 Accounts payable and accrued liabilities: Accounts payable 1 $ 27,018 $ 24,439 Accrued payroll and commissions 3,379 2,284 Current portion of employee benefit obligation 1,464 1,585 Accrued interest 2,557 2,661 Other 8,766 3,501 Total accounts payable and accrued liabilities $ 43,184 $ 34,470 1 December 31, 2018 and 2017 balances include payables of $1,984 and $927 under our vendor financing program and $1,855 and $39 of other supplier financing, respectively. Consolidated Statements of Income 2018 2017 2016 Advertising expense $ 5,100 $ 3,772 $ 3,768 Interest expense incurred $ 8,450 $ 7,203 $ 5,802 Capitalized interest (493) (903) (892) Total interest expense $ 7,957 $ 6,300 $ 4,910 Cash and Cash Flows We typically maintain our restricted cash balances for purchases and sales of certain investment securities and funding of certain deferred compensation benefit payments. The following tables summarize cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash balances contained on our consolidated balance sheets , as well as cash paid during the periods for interest and income taxes : December 31, Cash and Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash 2018 2017 2016 2015 Cash and cash equivalents $ 5,204 $ 50,498 $ 5,788 $ 5,121 Restricted cash in Other current assets 61 6 7 5 Restricted cash in Other Assets 135 428 140 147 Cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash $ 5,400 $ 50,932 $ 5,935 $ 5,273 Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows 2018 2017 2016 Cash paid during the year for: Interest $ 8,818 $ 6,622 $ 5,696 Income taxes, net of refunds (354) 2,006 3,721 Noncash I nvesting and F inancing A ctivities In 2018, we recorded approximately $2,162 of new vendor financing commitments related to capital investments. In connection with capital improvements, we negotiate favorable payment terms (referred to as vendor financing), which are excluded from our investing activities and reported as financing activities. Labor Contracts As of Janua ry 31, 2019, we employed approximately 2 68 , 000 persons. Approximately 40 % of our employees are represented by the Communications Workers of America (CWA), the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) or other unions. After expiration of the a greements, work stoppages or labor disruptions may occur in the absence of new contracts or o ther agreements being reached. A contract n ow covering approximately 8,3 00 traditional wireline employees in our Midwest region expired in April 2018 and employees are working under the terms of the prior contract, including benefits, while negotiations continue. In addition, a contract n ow covering approximately 3,3 00 traditional wireline employees in our legacy AT&T Corp. business also expired in April 2018. Those employees are working under the terms of their prior contract, including benefits , while negotiations continue. Other contr acts covering approximately 26 ,000 employees are scheduled to expire during 2019. |
Quarterly Financial Information
Quarterly Financial Information (Unaudited) | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2018 | |
Quarterly Financial Information (Unaudited) | |
Quarterly Financial Information (Unaudited) [Text Block] | NOTE 22 . QUARTERLY FINANCIAL INFORMATION (UNAUDITED) The following tables represent our quarterly financial results: 2018 Calendar Quarter First 1 Second 1 Third Fourth 1 Annual Total Operating Revenues $ 38,038 $ 38,986 $ 45,739 $ 47,993 $ 170,756 Operating Income 6,201 6,466 7,269 6,160 26,096 Net Income 4,759 5,248 4,816 5,130 19,953 Net Income Attributable to AT&T 4,662 5,132 4,718 4,858 19,370 Basic Earnings Per Share Attributable to AT&T 2 $ 0.75 $ 0.81 $ 0.65 $ 0.66 $ 2.85 Diluted Earnings Per Share Attributable to AT&T 2 $ 0.75 $ 0.81 $ 0.65 $ 0.66 $ 2.85 Stock Price High $ 39.29 $ 36.39 $ 34.28 $ 34.30 Low 34.44 31.17 30.13 26.80 Close 35.65 32.11 33.58 28.54 1 Includes actuarial gains and losses on pension and postretirement benefit plans (Note 14). 2 Quarterly earnings per share impacts may not add to full-year earnings per share impacts due to the difference in weighted-average common shares for the quarters versus the weighted-average common shares for the year. 2017 Calendar Quarter First Second 1 Third Fourth 1, 2 Annual Total Operating Revenues $ 39,365 $ 39,837 $ 39,668 $ 41,676 $ 160,546 Operating Income 6,356 6,526 5,807 1,281 19,970 Net Income 3,574 4,014 3,123 19,136 29,847 Net Income Attributable to AT&T 3,469 3,915 3,029 19,037 29,450 Basic Earnings Per Share Attributable to AT&T 3 $ 0.56 $ 0.63 $ 0.49 $ 3.08 $ 4.77 Diluted Earnings Per Share Attributable to AT&T 3 $ 0.56 $ 0.63 $ 0.49 $ 3.08 $ 4.76 Stock Price High $ 43.02 $ 41.69 $ 39.41 $ 39.51 Low 40.61 37.46 35.59 32.86 Close 41.55 37.73 39.17 38.88 1 Includes actuarial gains and losses on pension and postretirement benefit plans (Note 14). 2 Includes an asset abandonment charge (Note 7) and the impact of federal corporate income tax reform (Note 13). 3 Quarterly earnings per share impacts may not add to full-year earnings per share impacts due to the difference in weighted-average common shares for the quarters versus the weighted-average common shares for the year. |
Valuation And Qualifying Accoun
Valuation And Qualifying Accounts | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2018 | |
Valuation And Qualifying Accounts | |
Valuation And Qualifying Accounts [Text Block] | Schedule II - Sheet 1 AT&T INC. SCHEDULE II - VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Dollars in Millions COL. A COL. B COL. C COL. D COL. E Additions (1) (2) (3) Balance at Charged to Charged to Beginning of Costs and Other Balance at End Period Expenses (a) Accounts (b) Acquisitions (c) Deductions (d) of Period Year 2018 $ 663 1,791 - 179 1,726 $ 907 Year 2017 $ 661 1,642 - - 1,640 $ 663 Year 2016 $ 704 1,474 - - 1,517 $ 661 (a) Includes amounts previously written off which were credited directly to this account when recovered. Excludes direct charges and credits to expense for nontrade receivables in the consolidated statements of income. (b) Includes amounts related to long-distance carrier receivables which were billed by AT&T. (c) Acqusition of Time Warner in 2018. (d) Amounts written off as uncollectible, or related to divested entities. Schedule II - Sheet 2 AT&T INC. SCHEDULE II - VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS Allowance for Deferred Tax Assets Dollars in Millions COL. A COL. B COL. C COL. D COL. E Additions (1) (2) (3) Balance at Charged to Charged to Beginning of Costs and Other Acquisitions Deductions Balance at End Period Expenses Accounts (a) (b) (c) of Period Year 2018 $ 4,640 (210) (53) 211 - $ 4,588 Year 2017 $ 2,283 2,376 (19) - - $ 4,640 Year 2016 $ 2,141 81 61 - - $ 2,283 (a) Includes current year reclassifications from other balance sheet accounts. (b) Acquisition of Time Warner in 2018. (c) Reductions to valuation allowances related to deferred tax assets. |
Summary Of Significant Accoun_2
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies (Policy) | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2018 | |
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies | |
Revenue Recognition [Policy Text Block] | Revenue Recognition As of January 1, 2018, we adopted Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) Accounting Standards Update (ASU) No. 2014-09, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606),” as modified (ASC 606), using the modified retrospective method, which does n ot allow us to adjust prior periods. We applied the rules to all open contracts existing as of January 1, 2018, recording an increase of $2,342 to retained earnings for the cumulative effect of the change, with an offsetting contract asset of $1,737, defer red contract acquisition costs of $1,454, other asset reductions of $239, other liability reductions of $212, deferred income tax liability of $787 and increase to noncontrolling interest of $35. (See Note 5 ) |
Pension And Other Postretirement Benefits [Policy Text Block] | Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits As of January 1, 2018, we adopted, with retrospective application, ASU No. 2017-07, “Compensation – Retirement Benefits (Topic 715): Improving the Presentation of Net Periodic Pension Cost and Net Periodic Postretirement Benefit Cost” (ASU 2017-07). We a re no longer allowed to present the interest, estimated return on assets and amortization of prior service credits components of our net periodic benefit cost in our consolidated operating expenses, but rather are required to include those amounts in “othe r income (expense) – net” in our consolidated statements of income. We continue to present service costs with the associated compensation costs within our operating expenses. As a practical expedient, we used the amounts disclosed as the estimated basis fo r applying the retrospective presentation requirement. |
Cash Flows [Policy Text Block] | Cash Flows As of January 1, 2018, we adopted, with retrospective application, ASU No. 2016-15, “Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230): Classification of Certain Cash Receipts and Cash Payments” (ASU 2016-15). Under ASU 2016-15, we continue to recognize cash receipts on owned equipment installment receivables as cash flows from operations. However, cash receipts on the deferred pu rchase price described in Note 17 are now required to be classified as cash flows from investing activities instead of cash flo ws from operating activities. As of January 1, 2018, we adopted, with retrospective application, ASU No. 2016-18, “Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230) – Restricted Cash,” (ASU 2016-18). The primary impact of ASU 2016-18 was to require us to include restri cted cash in our reconciliation of beginning and ending cash and cash equivalents (restricted and unrestricted) on the face of our consolidated statem ents of cash flows. (See Note 21 ) |
Financial Instruments [Policy Text Block] | Financial Instruments As of January 1, 2018, we adopted ASU No. 2016-01, “Financial Instruments – Overall (Subtopic 825-10): Recognition and Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities” (ASU 2016-01), which requires us to prospectively record changes in the fair value of our equity investments, except for those accounted for under the equity method, in net income instead of in accumulated other comprehensive income. As of January 1, 2018, we recorded an increase of $658 in retained earni ngs for the cumulative effect of the adoption of ASU 2016-01, with an offset to accumulated other comprehensive income (accumulated OCI). |
Customer Fulfillment Costs [Policy Text Block] | Customer Fulfillment Costs During the second quarter of 2018, we updated our analysis of economic lives of customer relationships. As of April 1, 2018, we extended the amortization period to 58 months to better reflect the estimated economic lives of our Entertainment Group customers. This change in accounting estimate decreased other cost of revenues, which had an impa ct on net income of $338, or $0.05 per diluted share, in 2018. |
Income Taxes [Policy Text Block] | Income Taxes We record deferred income taxes for temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes and the computed tax basis of th ose assets and liabilities. We record valuation allowances against the deferred tax assets (included, together with our deferred income tax assets, as part of our reportable net deferred income tax liabilities on our consolidated balance sheets), for which the realization is uncertain. We review these items regularly in light of changes in federal and state tax laws and changes in our business. The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (the Act) was enacted on December 22, 2017. The Act reduced the U.S. federal corporate income tax rate from 35% to 21% and required companies to pay a one-time transition tax on earnings of certain foreign subsidiaries that were previously tax deferred. Recognizing the late enactment of the Act and complexity of accurately accounting for its impact, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) in Staff Accounting Bulletin (SAB) 118 provided guidance that allowed registrants to provide a reasonable estimate of the impact to their financial statements and adjust the reported impact in a measure ment period not to exceed one year. We included the estimated impact of the Act in our financial results at or for the period ended December 31, 2017, with additional adjustments recorded in 2018. (See Note 13) In February 2018, the FASB issued ASU No. 20 18-02, “Income Statement– Reporting Comprehensive Income (Topic 220): Reclassification of Certain Tax Effects from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income” (ASU 2018-02), which allows entities the option to reclassify from accumulated other comprehensive i ncome (accumulated OCI) to retained earnings the stranded tax effects resulting from the application of the Act. We elected to adopt ASU 2018-02 in the period in which the estimated income tax effects of the Act were recognized, reflecting a $1,529 adjustm ent for 2017 in the consolidated statements of changes in stockholders’ equity. (See Note 3) |
Cash And Cash Equivalents [Policy Text Block] | Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and cash equivalents include all highly liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less. The carrying amounts approximate fair value. At December 31, 2018 , we held $3,130 in cash and $2,074 in money market funds and other cash equivalents. Of our total cash and cash equivalents, $1,930 resided in foreign jurisdictions, some of which is subject to restrictions on repatriation. |
Allowance For Doubtful Accounts [Policy Text Block] | Allowance for Doubtful Accounts We record expense to maintain an allowance for doubtful accounts for estimated losses that result from the failure or inability of our customers to make required payments deemed collectible from the customer when the service was provided or product was delivered. When determining the allowance, we consider the probability of recoverability of accounts receivable based on past experience , taking into account current collection tren ds as well as general economic factors, including bankruptcy rates. Credit risks are assessed based on historical write-offs, net of recoveries, as well as an analysis of the aged accounts receivable balances with allowances generally increasing as the rec eivable ages. Accounts receivable may be fully reserved for when specific collection issues are known to exist, such as catastrophes or pending bankruptcies. |
Inventory [Policy Text Block] | Equipment Inventory Equipment inventories, which primarily consist of wireless devices and acces sories, are included in “Other current assets” on our consolidated balance sheets. Equipment inventories are valued at the lower of cost or net realizable value and were $2,771 at December 31, 2018 and $2,225 at December 31, 2017 . Licensed Programming Inventory Cost Recognition and Impairment We enter into agreements to license programming exhibition rights from licensors. A programming inventory asset related to these rights and a corresponding liability payable to the licensor are recorded (on a discounted basis if the license agreements are long-term) when (i) the cost of the programming is reasonably determined, (ii) the programming material has been accepted in accordance with t he terms of the agreement, (iii) the programming is available for its first showing or telecast, and (iv) the license period has commenced. There are variations in the amortization methods of these rights, depending on whether the network is advertising-su pported (e.g., TNT and TBS) or not advertising-supported (e.g., HBO and Turner Classic Movies). For the advertising-supported networks, our general policy is to amortize each program’s costs on a straight-line basis (or per-play basis, if greater) over i ts license period. In circumstances where the initial airing of the program has more value than subsequent airings, an accelerated method of amortization is used. The accelerated amortization upon the first airing versus subsequent airings is determined ba sed on a study of historical and estimated future advertising sales for similar programming. For rights fees paid for sports programming arrangements, such rights fees are amortized using a revenue-forecast model, in which the rights fees are amortized usi ng the ratio of current period advertising revenue to total estimated remaining advertising revenue over the term of the arrangement. For premium pay television and over-the-top (OTT) services that are not advertising-supported, each licensed program’s c osts are amortized on a straight-line basis over its license period or estimated period of use, beginning with the month of initial exhibition. When we have the right to exhibit feature theatrical programming in multiple windows over a number of years, his torical audience viewership is used as the basis for determining the amount of programming amortization attributable to each window. Licensed programming inventory, which is included in “Other current assets” and “Noncurrent inventories and theatrical fi lm and television production costs” on our consolidated balance sheet, is carried at the lower of unamortized cost or estimated net realizable value. For networks that generate both advertising and subscription revenues, the net realizable value of unamort ized programming costs is generally evaluated based on the network’s programming taken as a whole . In assessing whether the programming inventory for a particular advertising-supported network is impaired, the net realizable value for all of the network’s programming inventory is determined based on a projection of the network’s profitability. This assessment would occur upon the occurrence of certain triggering events. Similarly, for premium pay television and OTT services that are not advertising-supporte d, an evaluation of the net realizable value of unamortized programming costs is performed based on the premium pay television and OTT services’ licensed programming taken as a whole . Specifically, the net realizable value for all premium pay television an d OTT service licensed programming is determined based on projections of estimated subscription revenues less certain costs of delivering and distributing the licensed programming. Changes in management’s intended usage of a specific program, such as a dec ision to no longer exhibit that program and forgo the use of the rights associated with the program license, results in a reassessment of that program’s net realizable value, which could result in an impairment. (See Note 10) Film and Television Productio n Cost Recognition, Participations and Residuals and Impairments Film and television production costs, which are part of “Other current assets” and “Noncurrent inventories and theatrical film and television production costs” on our consolidated balance she et, include the unamortized cost of completed theatrical films and television episodes, theatrical films and television series in production and undeveloped film and television rights. Film and television production costs are stated at the lower of cost, l ess accumulated amortization, or fair value. The amount of capitalized film and television production costs and the amount of participations and residuals to be recognized as broadcast, programming and operations expenses for a given film or television ser ies in a particular period is determined using the film forecast computation method. Under this method, the amortization of capitalized costs and the accrual of participations and residuals is based on the proportion of the film’s revenues recognized for s uch period to the film’s estimated remaining ultimate revenues (i.e., the total revenue to be received throughout a film’s life cycle). Under current GAAP, the amount of capitalized television production costs cannot exceed contracted revenues for a given television series. The process of estimating a film’s ultimate revenues requires us to make a series of judgments related to future revenue-generating activities associated with a particular film . We estimate the ultimate revenues, less additional costs to be incurred (including exploitation and participation costs), in order to determine whether the value of a film or television series is impaired and requires an immediate write-off of unrecoverable film and television production costs. To the extent tha t the ultimate revenues are adjusted, the resulting gross margin reported on the exploitation of that film or television series in a period is also adjusted. Prior to the theatrical release of a film, our estimates are based on factors such as the historical performance of similar films, the star power of the lead actors, the rating and genre of the film, pre-release market research (including test market screenings), international distribution plans and the expected number of theaters in which the film will be released. In the absence of revenues directly related to the exhibition of owned film or television programs on our television networks, premium pay television or OTT services, we estimate a portion of the unamortized costs that are representa tive of the utilization of that film or television program in that exhibition and expense such costs as the film or television program is exhibited. The period over which ultimate revenues are estimated is generally not to exceed ten years from the initial release of a motion picture or from the date of delivery of the first episode of an episodic television series. Estimates are updated based on information available during the film’s production and, upon release, the actual results of each film. |
Property, Plant and Equipment [Policy Text Block] | Property , Plant and Equipment Property , plant and equipment is stated at cost, except for assets acquired using acquisition accounting, which are initially recorded at fair value (see Note 7 ). The cost of additions and substantial improvements to property, plant and equipment is capitalized, and includes internal compens ation costs for these projects. The cost of maintenance and repairs of property, plant and equipment is charged to operating expenses. Property, plant and equipment costs are depreciated using stra ight-line methods over their estimated economic lives. Certain subsidiaries follow composite group depreciation methodology. Accordingly, when a portion of their depreciable property, plant and equipment is retired in the ordinary course of business, the g ross book value is reclassified to accumulated depreciation, and no gain or loss is recognized on the disposition of these assets. Property, plant and equipment is reviewed for recoverability whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the c arrying amount of an asset group may not be recoverable. We recognize an impairment loss when the carrying amount of a long-lived asset is not recoverable. The carrying amount of a long-lived asset is not recoverable if it exceeds the sum of the undiscount ed cash flows expected to result from the use and eventual disposition of the asset. See Note 7 for a discussion of asset abandonments and impairments. The liability for the fair value of an asset retirement obligation is recorded in the period in which i t is incurred if a reasonable estimate of fair value can be made. In periods subsequent to initial measurement, we recognize period-to-period changes in the liability resulting from the passage of time and revisions to either the timing or the amount of th e original estimate. The increase in the carrying value of the associated long-lived asset is depreciated over the corresponding estimated economic life. |
Software Costs [Policy Text Block] | Software Costs We capitalize certain costs incurred in connection with developing or obtaining inter nal-use software. Capitalized software costs are included in “Property, Plant and Equipment” on our consolidated balance sheets. In addition, there is certain network software that allows the equipment to provide the features and functions unique to the AT &T network, which we include in the cost of the equipment categories for financial reporting purposes. We amortize our capitalized software costs over a three-year to seven -year period, reflecting the estimated period during which these asset s will remain in service . |
Goodwill And Other Intangible Assets [Policy Text Block] | Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets We have the following major classes of intangible assets: goodwill; licenses, which include Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and other wireless licenses and orbital slots; distribution networks; fi lm and television libraries; intellectual properties and franchises; trademarks and trade names ; customer lists; and various other finite-lived intangible assets (see Note 8 ). Goodwill represents the excess of consideration paid over the fair value of ide ntifiable net assets acquired in business combinations. Wireless licenses (including FCC licenses) provide us with the exclusive right to utilize certain radio frequency spectrum to provide wireless communications services. While wireless licenses are issu ed for a fi xed period of time (generally ten years), renewals of wireless licenses have occurred routinely and at nominal cost. Moreover, we have determined that there are currently no legal, regulatory, contractual, competitive, economic or other factors that limit the useful lives of our wireless licenses. Orbital slots represent the space in which we operate the broadcast satellites that support our digital video entertainment service offerings. Similar to our wi reless licenses, there are limited factors that limit the useful lives of our orbital slots. We acquired the rights to the AT&T and other trade names in previous acquisitions , classifying certain of those trade names as indefinite lived . We have the effective ability to retain these exclusive righ ts permanently at a nominal cost. Goodwill, licenses and other indefinite-lived intangible assets are not amortized but are tested at least annually for impairment. The testing is performed on the value as of October 1 each year, and compares the book val ue s of the assets to their fair value s . Goodwill is tested by comparing the book value of each reporting unit, deemed to be our principal operating segments or one leve l below them , to the fair value using both discounted cash flow as well as market multip le approaches. Wireless licenses are tested on an aggregate basis, consistent with our use of the licenses on a national scope, using a discounted cash flow approach. Orbital slots are similarly aggregated for purposes of impairment testing. Trade names ar e tested by comparing the ir book value s to their fair value s calculated using a discounted cash flow approach on a presumed royalty rate derived from the revenues related to each brand name. Intangible assets that have finite useful lives are amortized ov er their useful lives (see Note 8 ). Customer lists and relationships are amortized using primarily the sum-of-the-months-digits method of amortization over the period in which those relationships are expected to contribute to our future cash flows. Finite-lived trademarks and trade names and distribution networks are amortized using the straight-line method over the estimated useful life of the assets. Film library is amortized using the film forecast computation method, as previously disclosed. The remaining finite-lived intangible assets are generally amortized using the straight-line method. |
Advertising Costs [Policy Text Block] | Advertising Costs We expense advertising costs for products and services or for promoting our corporate image as we incur them (see Note 21 ). |
Foreign Currency Translation [Policy Text Block] | Foreign Curren cy Translation Our foreign subsidiaries and foreign investments generally report their earnings in their local currencies. We translate their foreign assets and liabilities at exchange rates in effect at the balance sheet dates. We translate their revenue s and expenses using average rates during the year. The resulting foreign currency translation adjustments are recorded as a separate component of accumulated OCI in our consolidated balance sheets (see Note 3). Operations in countries with highly inflatio nary economies consider the U.S. dollar as the functional currency. We hedge a portion of the foreign currency exchange risk involved in certain foreign currency-denominated transactions, which we explain further in our discussion of our methods of managi ng our foreign currency r isk (see Note 12 ). |
Leases [Policy Text Block] | Leases Beginning with 2019 interim reporting, we will adopt ASU No. 2016-02, “Leases (Topic 842),” as modified ( ASC 842 ), which replaces existing leasing rules with a comprehensive lease measurement and recognition standard and expanded disclosure requirements. ASC 842 requires lessees to recognize most leases on their balance sheets as liabilities, with corresponding “rig ht-of-use” assets. For income statement recognition purposes, leases will be classified as either a finance or an operating lease without relying upon the bright-line tests under current GAAP. The key change upon adoption of the standard will be balance s heet recognition, as the recognition of lease expense on our income statement will be similar to our c urrent accounting. We will adopt the new leasing standard using a modified retrospective transition method as of the beginning of the period of adoption; therefore, we will not adjust the balance sheet for comparative periods but will record a cumulative effect adjustment to retained earnings on January 1, 2019. We will elect the package of practical expedients permitted under the transition guidance within the new standard, which, among other things, allows us to carry forward our historical lease classification. We will also elect the practical expedient related to land easements, allowing us to carry forward our current accounting treatment for land easemen ts on existing agreements that were not accounted for as leases. We will exclude all the leases with original maturities of one year or less. Additionally, we have elected to not separate lease and non-lease components for certain classes of assets in arra ngements where we are the lessee and for certain classes of assets where we are the lessor. We do not expect our accounting for finance leases to change from our current accounting for capital leases. We have estimated the adoption will result in a right -of-use asset and corresponding lease liability on our consolidated balance sheet in the range of $20,000 to $25,000. We do not believe the standard will materially impact the income statement or have a notable impact on our liquidity. The standard will ha ve no impact on our debt-covenant compliance under our current agreements. |
Revenue Recognition (Policy)
Revenue Recognition (Policy) | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2018 | |
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract] | |
Revenue Recognition, Deferred Revenue [Policy Text Block] | NOTE 5 . REVENUE RECOGNITION As of January 1, 2018, we adopted ASC 606. With our adoption of ASC 606, we made a policy election to record certain regulatory fees, primarily Universal Service Fund (USF) fees, on a net basis. We report our revenues net of sales taxes. When implementing ASC 606, we utilized the practical expedient allowing us to reflect the aggregate effect of all contract modifications occurring before the beginning of the earliest period presented when allocating the transaction price to performance obligations. Wireless, Advanced Data, Legacy Voice & Data Services and Equipment Revenue We offer service-only contracts and contracts that bundle equipment used to access the services and/or with other service offerings. Some contracts have f ixed terms and others are cancellable on a short-term basis (i.e., month-to-month arrangements). Examples of service revenues include wireless, video entertainment (e.g., AT&T U-verse and DIRECTV), strategic services (e.g., virtual private network servic e), and legacy voice and data (e.g., traditional local and long-distance). These services represent a series of distinct services that is considered a separate performance obligation. Service revenue is recognized when services are provided, based upon eit her usage (e.g., minutes of traffic/bytes of data processed) or period of time (e.g., monthly service fees). Some of our services require customer premises equipment that, when combined and integrated with AT&T’s specific network infrastructure, facilitat e the delivery of service to the customer. In evaluating whether the equipment is a separate performance obligation, we consider the customer’s ability to benefit from the equipment on its own or together with other readily available resources and if so, w hether the service and equipment are separately identifiable (i.e., is the service highly dependent on, or highly interrelated with the equipment). When the equipment does not meet the criteria to be a distinct performance obligation (e.g., equipment assoc iated with certain video services), we allocate the total transaction price to the related service. When equipment is a distinct performance obligation, we record the sale of equipment when title has passed and the products are accepted by the customer. Fo r devices sold through indirect channels (e.g., national dealers), revenue is recognized when the dealer accepts the device, not upon activation. Our equipment and service revenues are predominantly recognized on a gross basis, as most of our services do not involve a third party and we typically control the equipment that is sold to our customers. Revenue recognized from fixed term contracts that bund le services and/or equipment is allocated based on the standalone selling price of all required perform ance obligations of the contract (i.e., each item included in the bundle). Promotional discounts are attributed to each required component of the arrangement, resulting in recognition over the contract term. Standalone selling prices are determined by asse ssing prices paid for service-only contracts (e.g., arrangements where customers bring their own devices) and standalone device pricing. We offer the majority of our customers the option to purchase certain wireless devices in installments over a specifi ed period of time, and, in many cases, they may be eligible to trade in the original equipment for a new device and have the remaining unpaid balance paid or settled. For customers that elect these equipment installment payment programs, at the point of sa le, we recognize revenue for the entire amount of revenue allocated to the customer receivable net of fair value of the trade-in right guarantee. The difference between the revenue recognized and the consideration received is recorded as a note receivable when the devices are not discounted and our right to consideration is unconditional. When installment sales include promotional discounts (e.g., “buy one get one free”), the difference between revenue recognized and consideration received is recorded as a contract asset to be amortized over the contract term. Less commonly, we offer certain customers highly discounted devices when they enter into a minimum service agreement term. For these contracts, we recognize equipment revenue at the point of sale base d on a standalone selling price allocation. The difference between the revenue recognized and the cash received is recorded as a contract asset that will amortize over the contract term. Our contracts allow for customers to frequently modify their arrange ment, without incurring penalties in many cases. When a contract is modified, we evaluate the change in scope or price of the contract to determine if the modification should be treated as a new contract or if it should be considered a change of the existi ng contract. We generally do not have significant impacts from contract modifications. Revenues from transactions between us and our customers are recorded net of revenue-based regulatory fees and taxes. Cash incentives given to customers are recorded as a reduction of revenue. N onrefundable, upfront service activation and setup fees associated with service arrangements are deferred and recognized over the associated service contract period or customer life. Subscription Revenue Subscription revenues fro m cable networks and premium pay and basic- tier television services are recognized over the license period as programming is provided to affiliates or digital distributors based on negotiated contractual programming rates. When a distribution contract with an affiliate has expired and a new distribution contract has not been executed, revenues are based on estimated rates, giving consideration to factors including the previous contractual rates, inflation, current payments by the affiliate and the status of the negotiations on a new contract. When the new distribution contract terms are finalized, an adjustment to revenue is recorded, if necessary, to reflect the new terms. Subscription revenues from end-user subscribers are recognized when services are pr ovided, based upon either usage or period of time. Subscription revenues from OTT services are recognized as programming services are provided to customers. Content Revenue Feature films typically are produced or acquired for initial exhibition in theaters, followed by distribution, generally commencing within three years of such initial exhibition. Revenues from film rentals by theaters are recognized as the films are exhibited. Television programs and series are initially produced for broadcast and may be subsequently licensed or sold in physical format and/or electronic delivery. Revenues from the distribution of television programming through broadcast networks, cable networks, first-run syndication and OTT services are recognized when the prog rams or series are available to the licensee. In certain circumstances, pursuant to the terms of the applicable contractual arrangements, the availability dates granted to customers may precede the date in which the customer can be billed for these sales. Revenues from sales of feature films and television programming in physical format are recognized at the later of the delivery date or the date when made widely available for sale or rental by retailers based on gross sales less a provision for estimated returns, rebates and pricing allowances. Revenues from the licensing of television programs and series for electronic sell-through or video-on-demand are recognized when the product has been purchased by and made available to the consumer to either downlo ad or stream. Upfront or guaranteed payments for the licensing of intellectual property are recognized as revenue at either the inception of the license term if the intellectual property has significant standalone functionality or over the corresponding l icense term if the licensee’s ability to derive utility is dependent on our continued support of the intellectual property throughout the license term. Revenues from the sales of console games are recognized at the later of the delivery date or the date t hat the product is made widely available for sale or rental by retailers based on gross sales less a provision for estimated returns, rebates and pricing allowances. Advertising Revenue Advertising revenues are recognized, net of agency commissions, in th e period that the advertisements are aired. If there is a targeted audience guarantee, revenues are recognized for the actual audience delivery and revenues are deferred for any shortfall until the guaranteed audience delivery is met, typically by providin g additional advertisements. Advertising revenues from digital properties are recognized as impressions are delivered or the services are performed. |
Fair Value Measurements and D_2
Fair Value Measurements and Disclosure (Policy) | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2018 | |
Derivatives Policy [Abstract] | |
Derivatives netting policy | We do not offse t the fair value of collateral, whether the right to reclaim cash collateral (a receivable) or the obligation to return cash collateral (a payable) exists, against the fair value of the derivative instruments. |
Pension and Postretirement Be_2
Pension and Postretirement Benefits (Policy) | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2018 | |
Pension And Postretirement Benefits | |
Recognition of actuarial gains and losses [Policy Text Block] | We recognize gains and losses on pension and postretirement plan assets and obligations immediately in our operating results. These gains and losses are measured annually as of December 31 and accordingly will be recorded during the fourth quarter, unless earlier remeasurements are required. |
Summary Of Significant Accoun_3
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies (Tables) | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2018 | |
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies | |
Schedule of New Accounting Pronouncements and Changes in Accounting Principles [Table Text Block] | Pension and Postretirement Benefits Historical Effect of Accounting Adoption of As Method ASU 2017-07 Adjusted For the year ended December 31, 2018 Consolidated Statements of Income Other cost of revenues $ 31,533 $ 1,373 $ 32,906 Selling, general and administrative expenses 32,416 4,349 36,765 Operating Income 31,818 (5,722) 26,096 Other Income (Expense) – net 1,060 5,722 6,782 Net Income 19,953 - 19,953 For the year ended December 31, 2017 Consolidated Statements of Income Other cost of revenues $ 37,511 $ 431 $ 37,942 Selling, general and administrative expenses 34,917 548 35,465 Operating Income 20,949 (979) 19,970 Other Income (Expense) – net 618 979 1,597 Net Income 29,847 - 29,847 For the year ended December 31, 2016 Consolidated Statements of Income Other cost of revenues $ 38,276 $ 306 $ 38,582 Selling, general and administrative expenses 36,347 498 36,845 Operating Income 24,347 (804) 23,543 Other Income (Expense) – net 277 804 1,081 Net Income 13,333 - 13,333 Cash Flows Historical Effect of Effect of Accounting Adoption of Adoption of As Method ASU 2016-15 ASU 2016-18 Adjusted For the year ended December 31, 2018 Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows Changes in other current assets $ (6,446) $ - $ 4 $ (6,442) Equipment installment receivables and related sales 10 (500) - (490) Other – net 3,520 - (129) 3,391 Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities 44,227 (500) (125) 43,602 (Purchases) sales of securities – net 7 - (192) (185) Cash collections of deferred purchase price - 500 - 500 Cash (Used in) Provided by Investing Activities (63,453) 500 (192) (63,145) Change in cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash (45,215) - (317) (45,532) For the year ended December 31, 2017 Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows Changes in other current assets $ (777) $ - $ (1) $ (778) Equipment installment receivables and related sales (263) (976) - (1,239) Other – net (1,151) - (164) (1,315) Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities 39,151 (976) (165) 38,010 (Purchases) sales of securities – net (4) - 453 449 Cash collections of deferred purchase price - 976 - 976 Cash (Used in) Provided by Investing Activities (20,372) 976 453 (18,943) Change in cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash 44,710 - 287 44,997 For the year ended December 31, 2016 Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows Changes in other current assets $ 1,708 $ - $ 1 $ 1,709 Equipment installment receivables and related sales (576) (731) - (1,307) Other – net (2,414) - (172) (2,586) Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities 39,344 (731) (171) 38,442 (Purchases) sales of securities – net 506 - 166 672 Cash collections of deferred purchase price - 731 - 731 Cash (Used in) Provided by Investing Activities (24,215) 731 166 (23,318) Change in cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash 667 - (5) 662 At or for the year ended December 31, 2018 As Reported Historical Accounting Method Consolidated Statement of Income: Service Revenues $ 152,345 $ 157,979 Equipment Revenues 18,411 16,324 Total Operating Revenues 170,756 174,303 Other cost of revenues 32,906 36,636 Selling, general and administrative expenses 36,765 38,961 Total Operating Expenses 144,660 150,586 Operating income 26,096 23,717 Income before income taxes 24,873 22,494 Income tax expense 4,920 4,337 Net income 19,953 18,157 Net income attributable to AT&T $ 19,370 $ 17,597 Basic Earnings per Share Attributable to AT&T $ 2.85 $ 2.59 Diluted Earnings per Share Attributable to AT&T $ 2.85 $ 2.59 Consolidated Balance Sheet: Other current assets $ 17,704 $ 14,756 Other Assets 24,809 22,144 Accounts payable and accrued liabilities 43,184 43,363 Advanced billings and customer deposits 5,948 6,012 Deferred income taxes 57,859 56,485 Other noncurrent liabilities 30,233 29,937 Retained earnings 58,753 54,616 Accumulated other comprehensive income 4,249 4,258 Noncontrolling interest $ 9,795 $ 9,737 |
Earnings Per Share (Tables)
Earnings Per Share (Tables) | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2018 | |
Earnings Per Share | |
Reconciliation Of The Numerators And Denominators Of Basic Earnings Per Share And Diluted Earnings Per Share [Table Text Block] | Year Ended December 31, 2018 2017 2016 Numerators Numerator for basic earnings per share: Net income $ 19,953 $ 29,847 $ 13,333 Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interest (583) (397) (357) Net income attributable to AT&T 19,370 29,450 12,976 Dilutive potential common shares: Share-based payment 19 13 13 Numerator for diluted earnings per share $ 19,389 $ 29,463 $ 12,989 Denominators (000,000) Denominator for basic earnings per share: Weighted-average number of common shares outstanding 6,778 6,164 6,168 Dilutive potential common shares: Share-based payment (in shares) 28 19 21 Denominator for diluted earnings per share 6,806 6,183 6,189 Basic earnings per share attributable to AT&T $ 2.85 $ 4.77 $ 2.10 Diluted earnings per share attributable to AT&T $ 2.85 $ 4.76 $ 2.10 |
Accumulated Other Comprehensi_2
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Tables) | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2018 | |
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Abstract] | |
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Table Text Block] | Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment Net Unrealized Gains (Losses) on Available-for-Sale Securities Net Unrealized Gains (Losses) on Cash Flow Hedges Defined Benefit Postretirement Plans Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Balance as of December 31, 2015 $ (1,198) $ 484 $ 16 $ 6,032 $ 5,334 Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications (797) 58 690 497 448 Amounts reclassified from accumulated OCI - 1 (1) 1 38 2 (858) 3 (821) Net other comprehensive income (loss) (797) 57 728 (361) (373) Balance as of December 31, 2016 (1,995) 541 744 5,671 4,961 Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications 20 187 371 1,083 1,661 Amounts reclassified from accumulated OCI - 1 (185) 1 39 2 (988) 3 (1,134) Net other comprehensive income (loss) 20 2 410 95 527 Amounts reclassified to retained earnings 4 (79) 117 248 1,243 1,529 Balance as of December 31, 2017 (2,054) 660 1,402 7,009 7,017 Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications (1,030) (4) (597) 830 (801) Amounts reclassified from accumulated OCI - 1 - 1 13 2 (1,322) 3 (1,309) Net other comprehensive income (loss) (1,030) (4) (584) (492) (2,110) Amounts reclassified to retained earnings 5 - (658) - - (658) Balance as of December 31, 2018 $ (3,084) $ (2) $ 818 $ 6,517 $ 4,249 1 (Gains) losses are included in Other income (expense) - net in the consolidated statements of income. 2 (Gains) losses are included in Interest expense in the consolidated statements of income (see Note 12). 3 The amortization of prior service credits associated with postretirement benefits are included in Other income (expense) in the consolidated statements of income (see Note 14). 4 With the adoption of ASU 2018-02, the stranded tax effects resulting from the application of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act are reclassified to retained earnings (see Note 1). 5 With the adoption of ASU 2016-01, the unrealized (gains) losses on our equity investments are reclassified to retained earnings (see Note 1). |
Segment Information (Tables)
Segment Information (Tables) | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2018 | |
Segment Information | |
Reconciliation of Revenue from Segments to Consolidated [Table Text Block] | For the year ended December 31, 2018 Revenues Operations and Support Expenses EBITDA Depreciation and Amortization Operating Income (Loss) Equity in Net Income (Loss) of Affiliates Segment Contribution Communications Mobility $ 71,344 $ 41,266 $ 30,078 $ 8,355 $ 21,723 $ (1) $ 21,722 Entertainment Group 46,460 36,430 10,030 5,315 4,715 (2) 4,713 Business Wireline 26,827 16,245 10,582 4,754 5,828 (1) 5,827 Total Communications 144,631 93,941 50,690 18,424 32,266 (4) 32,262 WarnerMedia Turner 6,979 3,794 3,185 131 3,054 54 3,108 Home Box Office 3,598 2,187 1,411 56 1,355 29 1,384 Warner Bros. 8,703 7,130 1,573 96 1,477 (28) 1,449 Other (339) (145) (194) 22 (216) (30) (246) Total WarnerMedia 18,941 12,966 5,975 305 5,670 25 5,695 Latin America Vrio 4,784 3,743 1,041 728 313 34 347 Mexico 2,868 3,415 (547) 510 (1,057) - (1,057) Total Latin America 7,652 7,158 494 1,238 (744) 34 (710) Xandr 1,740 398 1,342 9 1,333 - 1,333 Segment Total 172,964 114,463 58,501 19,976 38,525 $ 55 $ 38,580 Corporate and Other Corporate 1,240 1,630 (390) 1,498 (1,888) Acquisition-related items (49) 1,185 (1,234) 6,931 (8,165) Certain significant items - 899 (899) 26 (925) Eliminations and consolidations (3,399) (1,947) (1,452) (1) (1,451) AT&T Inc. $ 170,756 $ 116,230 $ 54,526 $ 28,430 $ 26,096 For the year ended December 31, 2017 Revenues Operations and Support Expenses EBITDA Depreciation and Amortization Operating Income (Loss) Equity in Net Income (Loss) of Affiliates Segment Contribution Communications Mobility $ 71,090 $ 42,871 $ 28,219 $ 8,015 $ 20,204 $ - $ 20,204 Entertainment Group 49,995 38,903 11,092 5,621 5,471 - 5,471 Business Wireline 29,293 18,492 10,801 4,789 6,012 (2) 6,010 Total Communications 150,378 100,266 50,112 18,425 31,687 (2) 31,685 WarnerMedia Turner 430 331 99 4 95 45 140 Home Box Office - - - - - - - Warner Bros. - - - - - - - Other - 4 (4) - (4) (74) (78) Total WarnerMedia 430 335 95 4 91 (29) 62 Latin America Vrio 5,456 4,172 1,284 849 435 87 522 Mexico 2,813 3,232 (419) 369 (788) - (788) Total Latin America 8,269 7,404 865 1,218 (353) 87 (266) Xandr 1,373 169 1,204 2 1,202 - 1,202 Segment Total 160,450 108,174 52,276 19,649 32,627 $ 56 $ 32,683 Corporate and Other Corporate 1,522 3,306 (1,784) 97 (1,881) Acquisition-related items - 798 (798) 4,608 (5,406) Certain significant items (243) 3,880 (4,123) 33 (4,156) Eliminations and consolidations (1,183) 31 (1,214) - (1,214) AT&T Inc. $ 160,546 $ 116,189 $ 44,357 $ 24,387 $ 19,970 For the year ended December 31, 2016 Revenues Operations and Support Expenses EBITDA Depreciation and Amortization Operating Income (Loss) Equity in Net Income (Loss) of Affiliates Segment Contribution Communications Mobility $ 72,587 $ 43,567 $ 29,020 $ 8,277 $ 20,743 $ - $ 20,743 Entertainment Group 50,660 38,909 11,751 5,861 5,890 8 5,898 Business Wireline 30,985 19,954 11,031 5,235 5,796 - 5,796 Total Communications 154,232 102,430 51,802 19,373 32,429 8 32,437 WarnerMedia Turner 418 318 100 5 95 52 147 Home Box Office - - - - - - - Warner Bros. - - - - - - - Other - - - - - (51) (51) Total WarnerMedia 418 318 100 5 95 1 96 Latin America Vrio 4,910 3,847 1,063 834 229 52 281 Mexico 2,373 2,983 (610) 332 (942) - (942) Total Latin America 7,283 6,830 453 1,166 (713) 52 (661) Xandr 1,333 99 1,234 1 1,233 - 1,233 Segment Total 163,266 109,677 53,589 20,545 33,044 $ 61 $ 33,105 Corporate and Other Corporate 1,754 3,458 (1,704) 97 (1,801) Acquisition-related items - 1,203 (1,203) 5,177 (6,380) Certain significant items (23) 35 (58) 29 (87) Eliminations and consolidations (1,211) 23 (1,234) (1) (1,233) AT&T Inc. $ 163,786 $ 114,396 $ 49,390 $ 25,847 $ 23,543 |
Reconciliation of Operating Income (Loss) from Segments to Consolidated [Table Text Block] | 2018 2017 2016 Communications $ 32,262 $ 31,685 $ 32,437 WarnerMedia 5,695 62 96 Latin America (710) (266) (661) Xandr 1,333 1,202 1,233 Segment Contribution 38,580 32,683 33,105 Reconciling Items: Corporate and Other (1,888) (1,881) (1,801) Merger and integration items (1,234) (798) (1,203) Amortization of intangibles acquired (6,931) (4,608) (5,177) Employee separation charges (587) (445) (344) Gain on wireless spectrum transactions - 181 714 Natural disaster items (181) (626) (67) Impairments and other charges (157) (3,046) (390) Tax reform special bonus - (220) - Segment equity in net income of affiliates (55) (56) (61) Eliminations and consolidations (1,451) (1,214) (1,233) AT&T Operating Income 26,096 19,970 23,543 Interest Expense 7,957 6,300 4,910 Equity in net income (loss) of affiliates (48) (128) 98 Other income (expense) - Net 6,782 1,597 1,081 Income Before Income Taxes $ 24,873 $ 15,139 $ 19,812 |
Schedule of Revenues by Geographic Region [Table Text Block] | 2018 2017 2016 Revenues Net Property, Plant & Equipment Revenues Net Property, Plant & Equipment Revenues Net Property, Plant & Equipment United States $ 154,795 $ 123,457 $ 149,841 $ 118,200 $ 154,039 $ 118,664 Europe 4,073 1,634 1,064 392 1,122 374 Mexico 3,100 3,467 2,913 3,619 2,472 2,520 Brazil 2,724 1,213 2,948 1,447 2,797 1,265 Asia/Pacific Rim 2,214 408 829 194 817 189 All other Latin America 3,055 1,217 2,743 1,294 2,348 1,828 Other 795 77 208 76 191 59 Total $ 170,756 $ 131,473 $ 160,546 $ 125,222 $ 163,786 $ 124,899 |
Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block] | Intersegment Reconciliation 2018 2017 2016 Intersegment revenues Communications $ 13 $ - $ - WarnerMedia 1,875 134 134 Latin America - - - Xandr - - - Total Intersegment Revenues 1,888 134 134 Consolidations 1,511 1,049 1,077 Eliminations and consolidations $ 3,399 $ 1,183 $ 1,211 Investments in Equity Method Investees Capital Expenditures At or for the year ended December 31, 2018 Assets Communications $ 485,360 $ 3 $ 19,509 WarnerMedia 132,453 5,547 581 Latin America 18,148 677 745 Xandr 2,718 - 106 Corporate and eliminations (106,815) 18 310 Total $ 531,864 $ 6,245 $ 21,251 |
Revenue Recognition (Tables)
Revenue Recognition (Tables) | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2018 | |
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract] | |
Disaggregation of Revenue [Table Text Block] | Revenue Categories The following table sets forth reported revenue by category: For the year ended December 31, 2018 Service Revenues Wireless Advanced Data Legacy Voice & Data Subscription Content Advertising Other Equipment Total Communications Mobility $ 54,701 $ - $ - $ - $ - $ 232 $ - $ 16,411 $ 71,344 Entertainment Group - 7,956 3,041 31,762 - 1,595 2,097 9 46,460 Business Wireline - 12,310 10,697 - - - 2,996 824 26,827 WarnerMedia Turner - - - 4,207 295 2,330 147 - 6,979 Home Box Office - - - 3,201 391 - 6 - 3,598 Warner Bros. - - - 47 8,216 53 387 - 8,703 Eliminations and Other - - - 74 (518) 78 27 - (339) Latin America Vrio - - - 4,784 - - - - 4,784 Mexico 1,701 - - - - - - 1,167 2,868 Xandr - - - - - 1,740 - - 1,740 Corporate and Other - - - - - - 1,191 - 1,191 Eliminations and consolidations - - - - (1,843) (1,595) 39 - (3,399) Total Operating Revenues $ 56,402 $ 20,266 $ 13,738 $ 44,075 $ 6,541 $ 4,433 $ 6,890 $ 18,411 $ 170,756 |
Contract with Customer, Asset and Liability [Table Text Block] | Contract asset $ 1,896 Contract liability 6,856 |
Schedule of New Accounting Pronouncements and Changes in Accounting Principles [Table Text Block] | Pension and Postretirement Benefits Historical Effect of Accounting Adoption of As Method ASU 2017-07 Adjusted For the year ended December 31, 2018 Consolidated Statements of Income Other cost of revenues $ 31,533 $ 1,373 $ 32,906 Selling, general and administrative expenses 32,416 4,349 36,765 Operating Income 31,818 (5,722) 26,096 Other Income (Expense) – net 1,060 5,722 6,782 Net Income 19,953 - 19,953 For the year ended December 31, 2017 Consolidated Statements of Income Other cost of revenues $ 37,511 $ 431 $ 37,942 Selling, general and administrative expenses 34,917 548 35,465 Operating Income 20,949 (979) 19,970 Other Income (Expense) – net 618 979 1,597 Net Income 29,847 - 29,847 For the year ended December 31, 2016 Consolidated Statements of Income Other cost of revenues $ 38,276 $ 306 $ 38,582 Selling, general and administrative expenses 36,347 498 36,845 Operating Income 24,347 (804) 23,543 Other Income (Expense) – net 277 804 1,081 Net Income 13,333 - 13,333 Cash Flows Historical Effect of Effect of Accounting Adoption of Adoption of As Method ASU 2016-15 ASU 2016-18 Adjusted For the year ended December 31, 2018 Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows Changes in other current assets $ (6,446) $ - $ 4 $ (6,442) Equipment installment receivables and related sales 10 (500) - (490) Other – net 3,520 - (129) 3,391 Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities 44,227 (500) (125) 43,602 (Purchases) sales of securities – net 7 - (192) (185) Cash collections of deferred purchase price - 500 - 500 Cash (Used in) Provided by Investing Activities (63,453) 500 (192) (63,145) Change in cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash (45,215) - (317) (45,532) For the year ended December 31, 2017 Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows Changes in other current assets $ (777) $ - $ (1) $ (778) Equipment installment receivables and related sales (263) (976) - (1,239) Other – net (1,151) - (164) (1,315) Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities 39,151 (976) (165) 38,010 (Purchases) sales of securities – net (4) - 453 449 Cash collections of deferred purchase price - 976 - 976 Cash (Used in) Provided by Investing Activities (20,372) 976 453 (18,943) Change in cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash 44,710 - 287 44,997 For the year ended December 31, 2016 Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows Changes in other current assets $ 1,708 $ - $ 1 $ 1,709 Equipment installment receivables and related sales (576) (731) - (1,307) Other – net (2,414) - (172) (2,586) Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities 39,344 (731) (171) 38,442 (Purchases) sales of securities – net 506 - 166 672 Cash collections of deferred purchase price - 731 - 731 Cash (Used in) Provided by Investing Activities (24,215) 731 166 (23,318) Change in cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash 667 - (5) 662 At or for the year ended December 31, 2018 As Reported Historical Accounting Method Consolidated Statement of Income: Service Revenues $ 152,345 $ 157,979 Equipment Revenues 18,411 16,324 Total Operating Revenues 170,756 174,303 Other cost of revenues 32,906 36,636 Selling, general and administrative expenses 36,765 38,961 Total Operating Expenses 144,660 150,586 Operating income 26,096 23,717 Income before income taxes 24,873 22,494 Income tax expense 4,920 4,337 Net income 19,953 18,157 Net income attributable to AT&T $ 19,370 $ 17,597 Basic Earnings per Share Attributable to AT&T $ 2.85 $ 2.59 Diluted Earnings per Share Attributable to AT&T $ 2.85 $ 2.59 Consolidated Balance Sheet: Other current assets $ 17,704 $ 14,756 Other Assets 24,809 22,144 Accounts payable and accrued liabilities 43,184 43,363 Advanced billings and customer deposits 5,948 6,012 Deferred income taxes 57,859 56,485 Other noncurrent liabilities 30,233 29,937 Retained earnings 58,753 54,616 Accumulated other comprehensive income 4,249 4,258 Noncontrolling interest $ 9,795 $ 9,737 |
Acquisitions, Dispositions An_2
Acquisitions, Dispositions And Other Adjustments (Tables) | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2018 | |
Acquisitions, Dispositions And Other Adjustments | |
Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table Text Block] | Assets acquired Cash $ 1,889 Accounts receivable 9,052 All other current assets 2,913 Noncurrent inventory and theatrical film and television production costs 5,593 Property, plant and equipment 4,769 Intangible assets subject to amortization Distribution network 18,040 Released television and film content 10,806 Trademarks and trade names 18,081 Other 10,300 Investments and other assets 9,449 Goodwill 38,566 Total assets acquired 129,458 Liabilities assumed Current liabilities, excluding current portion of long-term debt 8,303 Debt maturing within one year 4,471 Long-term debt 18,394 Other noncurrent liabilities 18,931 Total liabilities assumed 50,099 Net assets acquired 79,359 Noncontrolling interest (1) Aggregate value of consideration paid $ 79,358 |
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information [Table Text Block] | (Unaudited) Year Ended December 31, 2018 2017 Total operating revenues $ 183,651 $ 188,769 Net Income Attributable to AT&T 20,814 31,380 Basic Earnings Per Share Attributable to AT&T $ 2.86 $ 4.30 Diluted Earnings Per Share Attributable to AT&T $ 2.85 $ 4.26 |
Property, Plant And Equipment (
Property, Plant And Equipment (Tables) | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2018 | |
Property, Plant And Equipment | |
Summary Of Property, Plant And Equipment [Table Text Block] | Lives (years) 2018 2017 Land - $ 2,714 $ 1,630 Buildings and improvements 2-44 38,013 36,319 Central office equipment 1 3-10 95,173 94,076 Cable, wiring and conduit 15-50 73,397 67,695 Satellites 14-17 2,961 2,967 Other equipment 3-20 93,782 90,017 Software 3-7 19,124 16,750 Under construction - 5,526 4,045 330,690 313,499 Accumulated depreciation and amortization 199,217 188,277 Property, plant and equipment - net $ 131,473 $ 125,222 1 Includes certain network software. |
Goodwill And Other Intangible_2
Goodwill And Other Intangible Assets (Tables) | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2018 | |
Goodwill And Other Intangible Assets | |
Summary Of Changes In Carrying Amount Of Goodwill, By Segment [Table Text Block] | 2018 2017 Balance at Jan. 1 Reallocation Acquisitions Dispositions, currency exchange and other Balance at Dec. 31 Balance at Jan. 1 Acquisitions Dispositions, currency exchange and other Balance at Dec. 31 Mobility $ - $ 44,108 $ - $ - $ 44,108 $ - $ - $ - $ - Entertainment Group 39,280 (860) - (11) 38,409 39,053 210 17 39,280 Business Wireline - 17,827 422 (215) 18,034 - - - - Communications 39,280 61,075 422 (226) 100,551 39,053 210 17 39,280 WarnerMedia - 681 40,036 (19) 40,698 - - - - Latin America 4,234 (32) - (484) 3,718 4,264 - (30) 4,234 Xandr - 211 1,220 (28) 1,403 - - - - Business Solutions 45,395 (45,395) - - - 45,364 - 31 45,395 Consumer Mobility 16,540 (16,540) - - - 16,526 - 14 16,540 Total $ 105,449 $ - $ 41,678 $ (757) $ 146,370 $ 105,207 $ 210 $ 32 $ 105,449 |
Schedule Of Amortized Intangible Assets [Table Text Block] | 2018 2017 Other Intangible Assets Weighted-Average Life Gross Carrying Amount Accumulated Amortization Currency Translation Adjustment Gross Carrying Amount Accumulated Amortization Currency Translation Adjustment Amortized intangible assets: Customer lists and relationships: Wireless acquisitions $ 244 $ 212 $ - $ 764 $ 683 $ - BellSouth Corporation - - - 2,370 2,370 - WarnerMedia 73 15 - - - - AppNexus 75 20 - - - - DIRECTV 19,551 11,852 (216) 19,551 8,950 (141) AT&T Corp. 67 36 - 33 29 - Mexican wireless 506 316 (98) 506 278 (97) Subtotal 9.1 years 20,516 12,451 (314) 23,224 12,310 (238) Trademarks and trade names 38.6 years 18,371 293 (7) 2,942 2,366 (6) Distribution network 10.0 years 18,040 971 - - - - Released television and film content 10.8 years 10,814 2,988 - - - - Other 18.8 years 11,624 907 (25) 781 335 (3) Total 17.8 years $ 79,365 $ 17,610 $ (346) $ 26,947 $ 15,011 $ (247) Indefinite-lived intangible assets not subject to amortization, net of currency translation adjustment: Licenses: Wireless licenses $ 84,442 $ 84,434 Orbital slots 11,702 11,702 Trade names 6,274 6,451 Total $ 102,418 $ 102,587 |
Schedule Of Indefinite-Life Intangible Assets Not Subject To Amortization [Table Text Block] | 2018 2017 Other Intangible Assets Weighted-Average Life Gross Carrying Amount Accumulated Amortization Currency Translation Adjustment Gross Carrying Amount Accumulated Amortization Currency Translation Adjustment Amortized intangible assets: Customer lists and relationships: Wireless acquisitions $ 244 $ 212 $ - $ 764 $ 683 $ - BellSouth Corporation - - - 2,370 2,370 - WarnerMedia 73 15 - - - - AppNexus 75 20 - - - - DIRECTV 19,551 11,852 (216) 19,551 8,950 (141) AT&T Corp. 67 36 - 33 29 - Mexican wireless 506 316 (98) 506 278 (97) Subtotal 9.1 years 20,516 12,451 (314) 23,224 12,310 (238) Trademarks and trade names 38.6 years 18,371 293 (7) 2,942 2,366 (6) Distribution network 10.0 years 18,040 971 - - - - Released television and film content 10.8 years 10,814 2,988 - - - - Other 18.8 years 11,624 907 (25) 781 335 (3) Total 17.8 years $ 79,365 $ 17,610 $ (346) $ 26,947 $ 15,011 $ (247) Indefinite-lived intangible assets not subject to amortization, net of currency translation adjustment: Licenses: Wireless licenses $ 84,442 $ 84,434 Orbital slots 11,702 11,702 Trade names 6,274 6,451 Total $ 102,418 $ 102,587 |
Equity Method Investments (Tabl
Equity Method Investments (Tables) | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2018 | |
Equity Method Investments | |
Reconciliation Of Investments In Equity Affiliates [Table Text Block] | 2018 2017 Beginning of year $ 1,560 $ 1,674 Additional investments 237 51 Time Warner investments acquired 4,912 - Acquisition of remaining interest in Otter Media (166) - Equity in net income (loss) of affiliates (48) (128) Dividends and distributions received (243) (46) Currency translation adjustments (14) 22 Other adjustments 7 (13) End of year $ 6,245 $ 1,560 |
Inventories and Theatrical Fi_2
Inventories and Theatrical Film and Television Production Costs (Tables) | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2018 | |
Inventory Disclosure [Abstract] | |
Inventories and Theatrical Film and Television Production Costs [Table Text Block] | 2018 Inventories: Programming costs, less amortization 1 $ 4,097 Other inventory, primarily DVD and Blu-ray Discs 146 Total inventories 4,243 Less: current portion of inventory (2,420) Total noncurrent inventories 1,823 Theatrical film production costs: 2 Released, less amortization 451 Completed and not released 435 In production 866 Development and pre-production 159 Television production costs: 2 Released, less amortization 965 Completed and not released 1,087 In production 1,898 Development and pre-production 29 Total theatrical film and television production costs 5,890 Total noncurrent inventories and theatrical film and television production costs $ 7,713 1 Includes the costs of certain programming rights, primarily sports, for which payments have been made prior to the related rights being received. 2 Does not include $7,826 of acquired film and television library intangible assets as of December 31, 2018, which are included in "Other Intangible Assets - Net" on our consolidated balance sheet. |
Debt (Tables)
Debt (Tables) | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2018 | |
Debt Disclosure | |
Summary Of Long-Term Debt Of AT&T And Its Subsidiaries [Table Text Block] | 2018 2017 Notes and debentures Interest Rates Maturities 1 0.49% – 2.99% 2018 – 2022 $ 14,404 $ 19,514 3.00% – 4.99% 2018 – 2049 104,291 93,915 5.00% – 6.99% 2018 – 2095 37,175 46,343 7.00% – 9.50% 2018 – 2097 5,976 4,579 Credit agreement borrowings 12,618 1,700 Other 89 - Fair value of interest rate swaps recorded in debt (32) (20) 174,521 166,031 Unamortized (discount) premium - net (2,526) (2,968) Unamortized issuance costs (466) (537) Total notes and debentures 171,529 162,526 Capital lease obligations 1,911 1,818 Total long-term debt, including current maturities 173,440 164,344 Current maturities of long-term debt (7,190) (38,372) Total long-term debt $ 166,250 $ 125,972 1 Maturities assume putable debt is redeemed by the holders at the next opportunity. |
Debt Maturing Within One Year [Table Text Block] | 2018 2017 Current maturities of long-term debt $ 7,190 $ 38,372 Commercial paper 3,048 - Bank borrowings 1 4 2 Other 13 - Total $ 10,255 $ 38,374 1 Outstanding balance of short-term credit facility of a foreign subsidiary. |
Long-Term Debt - Scheduled Repayments [Table Text Block] | 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 Thereafter Debt repayments 1 $ 7,090 $ 12,665 $ 13,468 $ 12,640 $ 14,081 $ 114,609 Weighted-average interest rate 3.0 % 3.3 % 3.7 % 3.0 % 3.5 % 4.8 % 1 Debt repayments assume putable debt is redeemed by the holders at the next opportunity. |
Fair Value Measurements And D_3
Fair Value Measurements And Disclosure (Tables) | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2018 | |
Fair Value Measurements And Disclosure | |
Long-Term Debt And Other Financial Instruments [Table Text Block] | December 31, 2018 December 31, 2017 Carrying Fair Carrying Fair Amount Value Amount Value Notes and debentures 1 $ 171,529 $ 172,287 $ 162,526 $ 171,938 Commercial paper 3,048 3,048 - - Bank borrowings 4 4 2 2 Capitalized leases 1,911 1,911 1,818 1,818 Investment securities 3,409 3,409 2,447 2,447 1 Includes credit agreement borrowings. |
Fair Value Leveling [Table Text Block] | December 31, 2018 Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Total Equity Securities Domestic equities $ 1,061 $ - $ - $ 1,061 International equities 256 - - 256 Fixed income equities 172 - - 172 Available-for-Sale Debt Securities - 870 - 870 Asset Derivatives Cross-currency swaps - 472 - 472 Foreign exchange contracts - 87 - 87 Liability Derivatives Interest rate swaps - (39) - (39) Cross-currency swaps - (2,563) - (2,563) Foreign exchange contracts - (2) - (2) December 31, 2017 Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Total Equity Securities Domestic equities $ 1,142 $ - $ - $ 1,142 International equities 321 - - 321 Fixed income equities - 152 - 152 Available-for-Sale Debt Securities - 581 - 581 Asset Derivatives Interest rate swaps - 17 - 17 Cross-currency swaps - 1,753 - 1,753 Liability Derivatives Interest rate swaps - (31) - (31) Cross-currency swaps - (1,290) - (1,290) |
Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Investments [Table Text Block] | For the year ended December 31, 2018 2017 2016 Total gains (losses) recognized on equity securities $ (130) $ 326 $ 96 Gains (losses) recognized on equity securities sold 50 303 4 Unrealized gains (losses) recognized on equity securities held at end of period $ (180) $ 23 $ 92 |
Notional Amount Of Outstanding Derivative Positions [Table Text Block] | 2018 2017 Interest rate swaps $ 3,483 $ 9,833 Cross-currency swaps 42,192 38,694 Foreign exchange contracts 2,094 - Total $ 47,769 $ 48,527 |
Effect Of Derivatives On The Consolidated Statements Of Income [Table Text Block] | Effect of Derivatives on the Consolidated Statements of Income Fair Value Hedging Relationships For the years ended December 31, 2018 2017 2016 Interest rate swaps (Interest expense): Gain (Loss) on interest rate swaps $ (12) $ (68) $ (61) Gain (Loss) on long-term debt 12 68 61 Cash Flow Hedging Relationships For the years ended December 31, 2018 2017 2016 Cross-currency swaps: Gain (Loss) recognized in accumulated OCI $ (825) $ 571 $ 1,061 Foreign exchange contracts: Gain (Loss) recognized in accumulated OCI 51 - - Other income (expense) - net reclassified from accumulated OCI into income 39 - - Interest rate locks: Interest income (expense) reclassified from accumulated OCI into income (58) (60) (59) |
Income Taxes (Tables)
Income Taxes (Tables) | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2018 | |
Income Taxes [Abstract] | |
Components Of Deferred Tax Liabilities (Assets) [Table Text Block] | 2018 2017 Depreciation and amortization $ 43,105 $ 30,982 Licenses and nonamortizable intangibles 17,561 16,129 Employee benefits (5,366) (6,202) Deferred fulfillment costs 2,679 2,472 Net operating loss and other carryforwards (6,470) (6,067) Other – net 1,651 1,222 Subtotal 53,160 38,536 Deferred tax assets valuation allowance 4,588 4,640 Net deferred tax liabilities $ 57,748 $ 43,176 Noncurrent deferred tax liabilities $ 57,859 $ 43,207 Less: Noncurrent deferred tax assets (111) (31) Net deferred tax liabilities $ 57,748 $ 43,176 |
Changes In Unrecognized Tax Benefits Balance For Federal, State, And Foreign Tax [Table Text Block] | Federal, State and Foreign Tax 2018 2017 Balance at beginning of year $ 7,648 $ 6,516 Increases for tax positions related to the current year 336 1,438 Increases for tax positions related to prior years 2,615 200 Decreases for tax positions related to prior years (394) (461) Lapse of statute of limitations (52) (28) Settlements (664) (23) Current year acquisitions 872 - Foreign currency effects (3) 6 Balance at end of year 10,358 7,648 Accrued interest and penalties 2,588 1,333 Gross unrecognized income tax benefits 12,946 8,981 Less: Deferred federal and state income tax benefits (811) (388) Less: Tax attributable to timing items included above (3,430) (2,368) Less: UTBs included above that relate to acquired entities that would impact goodwill if recognized (918) - Total UTB that, if recognized, would impact the effective income tax rate as of the end of the year $ 7,787 $ 6,225 |
Components Of Income Tax Expense [Table Text Block] | 2018 2017 2016 Federal: Current $ 3,258 $ 682 $ 2,915 Deferred 277 (17,970) 3,127 3,535 (17,288) 6,042 State and local: Current 513 79 282 Deferred 473 1,041 339 986 1,120 621 Foreign: Current 539 471 335 Deferred (140) 989 (519) 399 1,460 (184) Total $ 4,920 $ (14,708) $ 6,479 |
Schedule of Income before Income Tax, Domestic and Foreign [Table Text Block] | 2018 2017 2016 U.S. income before income taxes $ 25,379 $ 16,438 $ 20,911 Foreign income (loss) before income taxes (506) (1,299) (1,099) Total $ 24,873 $ 15,139 $ 19,812 |
Reconciliation Of Income Tax Expense Based On Federal Statutory Rate To Amount Per Effective Tax Rate [Table Text Block] | 2018 2017 2016 Taxes computed at federal statutory rate $ 5,223 $ 5,299 $ 6,934 Increases (decreases) in income taxes resulting from: State and local income taxes – net of federal income tax benefit 738 509 416 Enactment date and measurement period adjustments from the Act (718) (20,271) - Tax on foreign investments (466) 73 168 Mexico restructuring - - (471) Other – net 143 (318) (568) Total $ 4,920 $ (14,708) $ 6,479 Effective Tax Rate 19.8 % (97.2) % 32.7 % |
Pension And Postretirement Be_3
Pension And Postretirement Benefits (Tables) | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2018 | |
Pension And Postretirement Benefits | |
Schedule Of Plan Obligations In Excess Of Plan Assets [Table Text Block] | Pension Benefits Postretirement Benefits 2018 2017 2018 2017 Benefit obligation at beginning of year $ 59,294 $ 56,183 $ 24,059 $ 26,027 Service cost - benefits earned during the period 1,116 1,128 109 138 Interest cost on projected benefit obligation 2,092 1,936 778 809 Amendments 50 48 (1,145) (1,807) Actuarial (gain) loss (5,046) 3,696 (2,815) 630 Special termination benefits 1 3 1 1 Benefits paid (4,632) (3,705) (1,680) (1,739) Acquisitions 2,559 - 71 - Plan transfers 5 5 - - Benefit obligation at end of year $ 55,439 $ 59,294 $ 19,378 $ 24,059 Pension Benefits Postretirement Benefits 2018 2017 2018 2017 Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year $ 45,463 $ 42,610 $ 5,973 $ 5,921 Actual return on plan assets (1,044) 5,987 (218) 607 Benefits paid 1 (4,632) (3,705) (1,503) (1,055) Contributions 9,307 566 25 500 Acquisitions 2,582 - - - Plan transfers 5 5 - - Fair value of plan assets at end of year 51,681 45,463 4,277 5,973 Unfunded status at end of year 2 $ (3,758) $ (13,831) $ (15,101) $ (18,086) 1 At our discretion, certain postretirement benefits may be paid from AT&T cash accounts, which does not reduce Voluntary Employee Benefit Association (VEBA) assets. Future benefit payments may be made from VEBA trusts and thus reduce those asset balances. 2 Funded status is not indicative of our ability to pay ongoing pension benefits or of our obligation to fund retirement trusts. Required pension funding is determined in accordance with the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended (ERISA) and applicable regulations. Pension Benefits Postretirement Benefits 2018 2017 2018 2017 Current portion of employee benefit obligation 1 $ - $ - $ (1,464) $ (1,585) Employee benefit obligation 2 (3,758) (13,831) (13,637) (16,501) Net amount recognized $ (3,758) $ (13,831) $ (15,101) $ (18,086) 1 Included in "Accounts payable and accrued liabilities." 2 Included in "Postemployment benefit obligation." |
Schedule Of Defined Benefit Plan And Postretirement Benefits Disclosure [Table Text Block] | Pension Benefits Postretirement Benefits 2018 2017 2016 2018 2017 2016 Service cost – benefits earned during the period $ 1,116 $ 1,128 $ 1,112 $ 109 $ 138 $ 192 Interest cost on projected benefit obligation 2,092 1,936 1,980 778 809 972 Expected return on assets (3,190) (3,134) (3,115) (304) (319) (355) Amortization of prior service credit (115) (123) (103) (1,635) (1,466) (1,277) Actuarial (gain) loss (812) 844 1,478 (2,290) 342 (581) Net pension and postretirement cost (credit) $ (909) $ 651 $ 1,352 $ (3,342) $ (496) $ (1,049) Pension Benefits Postretirement Benefits 2018 2017 2016 2018 2017 2016 Balance at beginning of year $ 571 $ 575 $ 512 $ 6,456 $ 5,089 $ 5,510 Prior service (cost) credit (37) (30) 128 864 1,120 372 Amortization of prior service credit (87) (76) (65) (1,234) (907) (793) Total recognized in other comprehensive (income) loss (124) (106) 63 (370) 213 (421) Adoption of ASU 2018-02 - 102 - - 1,154 - Balance at end of year $ 447 $ 571 $ 575 $ 6,086 $ 6,456 $ 5,089 |
Schedule Of Assumptions In Determining The Projected Benefit Obligation And Net Pension And Postretirement Benefit Cost [Table Text Block] | Pension Benefits Postretirement Benefits 2018 2017 2016 2018 2017 2016 Weighted-average discount rate for determining benefit obligation at December 31 4.50 % 3.80 % 4.40 % 4.40 % 3.70 % 4.30 % Discount rate in effect for determining service cost 1,2 4.20 % 4.60 % 4.90 % 4.30 % 4.60 % 5.00 % Discount rate in effect for determining interest cost 1,2 3.80 % 3.60 % 3.70 % 3.60 % 3.40 % 3.60 % Weighted-average interest crediting rate for cash balance pension programs 3 3.70 % 3.50 % 3.50 % - % - % - % Long-term rate of return on plan assets 7.00 % 7.75 % 7.75 % 5.75 % 5.75 % 5.75 % Composite rate of compensation increase for determining benefit obligation 3.00 % 3.00 % 3.00 % 3.00 % 3.00 % 3.00 % Composite rate of compensation increase for determining net cost (benefit) 3.00 % 3.00 % 3.10 % 3.00 % 3.00 % 3.10 % 1 Weighted-average discount rate for pension benefits in effect from January 1, 2018 through May 31, 2018 was 4.00% for service cost and 3.40% for interest costs, and, from June 1, 2018 through December 31, 2018 was 4.40% for service cost and 4.00% for interest cost. 2 Weighted-average discount rate for postretirement benefits in effect from January 1, 2018 through February 28, 2018 was 4.00% for service costs and 3.30% for interest costs, and, from March 1, 2018 through December 31, 2018 was 4.30% for service cost and 3.70% for interest cost. 3 Weighted-average interest crediting rates for cash balance pension programs relate only to the cash balance portion of total pension benefits. A 0.50% increase in the weighted-average interest crediting rate would increase the pension benefit obligation by $130. |
Schedule Of Defined Benefit Plan Targeted And Actual Plan Asset Allocations [Table Text Block] | Pension Assets Postretirement (VEBA) Assets Target 2018 2017 Target 2018 2017 Equity securities: Domestic 15 % - 25 % 16 % 23 % 20 % - 30 % 25 % 21 % International 7 % - 17 % 12 16 13 % - 23 % 18 15 Fixed income securities 29 % - 39 % 37 41 34 % - 44 % 39 40 Real assets 4 % - 14 % 9 10 - % - 6 % 1 1 Private equity 2 % - 12 % 8 10 - % - 7 % 2 2 Preferred interest 13 % - 23 % 18 - - % - - % - - Other - % - 5 % - - 10 % - 20 % 15 21 Total 100 % 100 % 100 % 100 % |
Schedule Of Fair Value Of Pension And Postretirement Assets And Liabilities By Level [Table Text Block] | Pension Assets and Liabilities at Fair Value as of December 31, 2018 Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Total Non-interest bearing cash $ 52 $ - $ - $ 52 Interest bearing cash 167 41 - 208 Foreign currency contracts - 5 - 5 Equity securities: Domestic equities 6,912 - 1 6,913 International equities 3,594 8 - 3,602 Preferred interest - - 8,749 8,749 Fixed income securities: Corporate bonds and other investments - 10,719 4 10,723 Government and municipal bonds 51 6,170 - 6,221 Mortgage-backed securities - 382 - 382 Real estate and real assets - - 2,579 2,579 Securities lending collateral 12 1,466 - 1,478 Purchased options, futures, and swaps - 3 - 3 Receivable for variation margin 19 - - 19 Assets at fair value 10,807 18,794 11,333 40,934 Investments sold short and other liabilities at fair value (657) (6) - (663) Total plan net assets at fair value $ 10,150 $ 18,788 $ 11,333 $ 40,271 Assets held at net asset value practical expedient Private equity funds 4,384 Real estate funds 2,162 Commingled funds 5,740 Total assets held at net asset value practical expedient 12,286 Other assets (liabilities) 1 (876) Total Plan Net Assets $ 51,681 1 Other assets (liabilities) include amounts receivable, accounts payable and net adjustment for securities lending payable. Postretirement Assets and Liabilities at Fair Value as of December 31, 2018 Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Total Interest bearing cash $ 45 $ 624 $ - $ 669 Equity securities: Domestic equities 745 8 - 753 International equities 541 - 1 542 Fixed income securities: Corporate bonds and other investments 7 602 11 620 Government and municipal bonds 2 377 1 380 Mortgage-backed securities - 283 - 283 Securities lending collateral - 63 - 63 Assets at fair value 1,340 1,957 13 3,310 Securities lending payable and other liabilities - (74) - (74) Total plan net assets at fair value $ 1,340 $ 1,883 $ 13 $ 3,236 Assets held at net asset value practical expedient Private equity funds 79 Real estate funds 36 Commingled funds 973 Total assets held at net asset value practical expedient 1,088 Other assets (liabilities) 1 (47) Total Plan Net Assets $ 4,277 1 Other assets (liabilities) include amounts receivable and accounts payable. Pension Assets and Liabilities at Fair Value as of December 31, 2017 Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Total Non-interest bearing cash $ 96 $ - $ - $ 96 Interest bearing cash 7 20 - 27 Foreign currency contracts - 2 - 2 Equity securities: Domestic equities 9,441 - 4 9,445 International equities 4,967 1 - 4,968 Fixed income securities: Corporate bonds and other investments 48 10,520 2 10,570 Government and municipal bonds - 5,751 - 5,751 Mortgage-backed securities - 765 - 765 Real estate and real assets - - 2,287 2,287 Securities lending collateral 8 2,240 - 2,248 Receivable for variation margin 6 - - 6 Assets at fair value 14,573 19,299 2,293 36,165 Investments sold short and other liabilities at fair value (497) (4) - (501) Total plan net assets at fair value $ 14,076 $ 19,295 $ 2,293 $ 35,664 Assets held at net asset value practical expedient Private equity funds 4,493 Real estate funds 2,340 Commingled funds 5,142 Total assets held at net asset value practical expedient 11,975 Other assets (liabilities) 1 (2,176) Total Plan Net Assets $ 45,463 1 Other assets (liabilities) include amounts receivable, accounts payable and net adjustment for securities lending payable. Postretirement Assets and Liabilities at Fair Value as of December 31, 2017 Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Total Interest bearing cash $ 603 $ 714 $ - $ 1,317 Equity securities: Domestic equities 857 9 - 866 International equities 600 - - 600 Fixed income securities: Corporate bonds and other investments 8 607 4 619 Government and municipal bonds - 445 - 445 Mortgage-backed securities - 308 1 309 Securities lending collateral - 120 - 120 Assets at fair value 2,068 2,203 5 4,276 Securities lending payable and other liabilities - (121) - (121) Total plan net assets at fair value $ 2,068 $ 2,082 $ 5 $ 4,155 Assets held at net asset value practical expedient Private equity funds 102 Real estate funds 41 Commingled funds 1,750 Total assets held at net asset value practical expedient 1,893 Other assets (liabilities) 1 (75) Total Plan Net Assets $ 5,973 1 Other assets (liabilities) include amounts receivable and accounts payable. |
Summary of Changes In The Fair Value Of The Level 3 Pension And Postretirement Assets [Table Text Block] | Pension Assets Equities Fixed Income Funds Real Estate and Real Assets Total Balance at beginning of year $ 4 $ 2 $ 2,287 $ 2,293 Realized gains (losses) - - 120 120 Unrealized gains (losses) (408) (1) 170 (239) Transfers in 9,158 1 266 9,425 Transfers out (4) (1) - (5) Purchases - 8 85 93 Sales - (5) (349) (354) Balance at end of year $ 8,750 $ 4 $ 2,579 $ 11,333 Postretirement Assets Equities Fixed Income Funds Real Estate and Real Assets Total Balance at beginning of year $ - $ 5 $ - $ 5 Transfers in 1 8 - 9 Transfers out - (1) - (1) Purchases - 1 - 1 Sales - (1) - (1) Balance at end of year $ 1 $ 12 $ - $ 13 Pension Assets Equities Fixed Income Funds Real Estate and Real Assets Total Balance at beginning of year $ 1 $ 40 $ 2,273 $ 2,314 Realized gains (losses) 1 - (73) (72) Unrealized gains (losses) (2) 1 216 215 Transfers in - - 25 25 Transfers out - (32) - (32) Purchases 5 - 157 162 Sales (1) (7) (311) (319) Balance at end of year $ 4 $ 2 $ 2,287 $ 2,293 Postretirement Assets Fixed Income Funds Total Balance at beginning of year $ 26 $ 26 Transfers out (15) (15) Purchases 2 2 Sales (8) (8) Balance at end of year $ 5 $ 5 |
Estimated Future Benefit Payments [Table Text Block] | Pension Benefits Postretirement Benefits 2019 $ 5,399 $ 1,637 2020 4,835 1,633 2021 4,750 1,582 2022 4,642 1,515 2023 4,508 1,463 Years 2024 - 2028 21,320 6,358 |
Share-Based Payment (Tables)
Share-Based Payment (Tables) | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2018 | |
Share-Based Payment | |
Compensation Cost [Table Text Block] | 2018 2017 2016 Performance stock units $ 301 $ 395 $ 480 Restricted stock and stock units 153 90 152 Other nonvested stock units 4 (5) 21 Stock options 5 - - Total $ 463 $ 480 $ 653 Income tax benefit $ 114 $ 184 $ 250 |
Status Of Nonvested Stock Units Activity And Changes During Year [Table Text Block] | Nonvested Stock Units Shares Weighted-Average Grant-Date Fair Value Nonvested at January 1, 2018 29 $ 38.35 Granted 15 35.53 Issued in Time Warner acquisition 17 41.23 Vested (20) 38.50 Forfeited (2) 38.11 Nonvested at December 31, 2018 39 $ 38.44 |
Sale of Equipment Installment_2
Sale of Equipment Installment Receivables (Tables) | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2018 | |
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items] | |
Finance Receivables [Table Text Block] | 2018 2017 2016 Gross receivables sold $ 9,391 $ 8,058 $ 7,629 Net receivables sold 1 8,871 7,388 6,913 Cash proceeds received 7,488 5,623 4,574 Deferred purchase price recorded 1,578 2,077 2,368 Guarantee obligation recorded 361 215 - 1 Receivables net of allowance, imputed interest and trade-in right guarantees. |
Deferred Purchase Price [Member] | |
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items] | |
Finance Receivables [Table Text Block] | 2018 2017 2016 Fair value of repurchased receivables $ 1,480 $ 1,699 $ 1,675 Carrying value of deferred purchase price 1,393 1,524 1,638 Gain (loss) on repurchases 1 $ 87 $ 175 $ 37 1 These gains (losses) are included in “Selling, general and administrative” in the consolidated statements of income. |
Additional Financial Informat_2
Additional Financial Information (Tables) | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2018 | |
Additional Financial Information [Abstract] | |
Consolidated Balance Sheets [Table Text Block] | December 31, Consolidated Balance Sheets 2018 2017 Current customer fulfillment costs (included in Other current assets) $ 4,090 $ 3,877 Accounts payable and accrued liabilities: Accounts payable 1 $ 27,018 $ 24,439 Accrued payroll and commissions 3,379 2,284 Current portion of employee benefit obligation 1,464 1,585 Accrued interest 2,557 2,661 Other 8,766 3,501 Total accounts payable and accrued liabilities $ 43,184 $ 34,470 1 December 31, 2018 and 2017 balances include payables of $1,984 and $927 under our vendor financing program and $1,855 and $39 of other supplier financing, respectively. |
Consolidated Statements Of Income [Table Text Block] | Consolidated Statements of Income 2018 2017 2016 Advertising expense $ 5,100 $ 3,772 $ 3,768 Interest expense incurred $ 8,450 $ 7,203 $ 5,802 Capitalized interest (493) (903) (892) Total interest expense $ 7,957 $ 6,300 $ 4,910 |
Consolidated Statements Of Cash Flows [Table Text Block] | December 31, Cash and Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash 2018 2017 2016 2015 Cash and cash equivalents $ 5,204 $ 50,498 $ 5,788 $ 5,121 Restricted cash in Other current assets 61 6 7 5 Restricted cash in Other Assets 135 428 140 147 Cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash $ 5,400 $ 50,932 $ 5,935 $ 5,273 Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows 2018 2017 2016 Cash paid during the year for: Interest $ 8,818 $ 6,622 $ 5,696 Income taxes, net of refunds (354) 2,006 3,721 |
Quarterly Financial Informati_2
Quarterly Financial Information (Unaudited) (Tables) | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2018 | |
Quarterly Financial Information (Unaudited) | |
Quarterly Financial Results [Table Text Block] | 2018 Calendar Quarter First 1 Second 1 Third Fourth 1 Annual Total Operating Revenues $ 38,038 $ 38,986 $ 45,739 $ 47,993 $ 170,756 Operating Income 6,201 6,466 7,269 6,160 26,096 Net Income 4,759 5,248 4,816 5,130 19,953 Net Income Attributable to AT&T 4,662 5,132 4,718 4,858 19,370 Basic Earnings Per Share Attributable to AT&T 2 $ 0.75 $ 0.81 $ 0.65 $ 0.66 $ 2.85 Diluted Earnings Per Share Attributable to AT&T 2 $ 0.75 $ 0.81 $ 0.65 $ 0.66 $ 2.85 Stock Price High $ 39.29 $ 36.39 $ 34.28 $ 34.30 Low 34.44 31.17 30.13 26.80 Close 35.65 32.11 33.58 28.54 1 Includes actuarial gains and losses on pension and postretirement benefit plans (Note 14). 2 Quarterly earnings per share impacts may not add to full-year earnings per share impacts due to the difference in weighted-average common shares for the quarters versus the weighted-average common shares for the year. 2017 Calendar Quarter First Second 1 Third Fourth 1, 2 Annual Total Operating Revenues $ 39,365 $ 39,837 $ 39,668 $ 41,676 $ 160,546 Operating Income 6,356 6,526 5,807 1,281 19,970 Net Income 3,574 4,014 3,123 19,136 29,847 Net Income Attributable to AT&T 3,469 3,915 3,029 19,037 29,450 Basic Earnings Per Share Attributable to AT&T 3 $ 0.56 $ 0.63 $ 0.49 $ 3.08 $ 4.77 Diluted Earnings Per Share Attributable to AT&T 3 $ 0.56 $ 0.63 $ 0.49 $ 3.08 $ 4.76 Stock Price High $ 43.02 $ 41.69 $ 39.41 $ 39.51 Low 40.61 37.46 35.59 32.86 Close 41.55 37.73 39.17 38.88 1 Includes actuarial gains and losses on pension and postretirement benefit plans (Note 14). 2 Includes an asset abandonment charge (Note 7) and the impact of federal corporate income tax reform (Note 13). 3 Quarterly earnings per share impacts may not add to full-year earnings per share impacts due to the difference in weighted-average common shares for the quarters versus the weighted-average common shares for the year. |
Valuation And Qualifying Acco_2
Valuation And Qualifying Accounts (Tables) | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2018 | |
Valuation And Qualifying Accounts | |
Valuation And Qualifying Accounts [Table Text Block] | Schedule II - Sheet 1 AT&T INC. SCHEDULE II - VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Dollars in Millions COL. A COL. B COL. C COL. D COL. E Additions (1) (2) (3) Balance at Charged to Charged to Beginning of Costs and Other Balance at End Period Expenses (a) Accounts (b) Acquisitions (c) Deductions (d) of Period Year 2018 $ 663 1,791 - 179 1,726 $ 907 Year 2017 $ 661 1,642 - - 1,640 $ 663 Year 2016 $ 704 1,474 - - 1,517 $ 661 (a) Includes amounts previously written off which were credited directly to this account when recovered. Excludes direct charges and credits to expense for nontrade receivables in the consolidated statements of income. (b) Includes amounts related to long-distance carrier receivables which were billed by AT&T. (c) Acqusition of Time Warner in 2018. (d) Amounts written off as uncollectible, or related to divested entities. Schedule II - Sheet 2 AT&T INC. SCHEDULE II - VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS Allowance for Deferred Tax Assets Dollars in Millions COL. A COL. B COL. C COL. D COL. E Additions (1) (2) (3) Balance at Charged to Charged to Beginning of Costs and Other Acquisitions Deductions Balance at End Period Expenses Accounts (a) (b) (c) of Period Year 2018 $ 4,640 (210) (53) 211 - $ 4,588 Year 2017 $ 2,283 2,376 (19) - - $ 4,640 Year 2016 $ 2,141 81 61 - - $ 2,283 (a) Includes current year reclassifications from other balance sheet accounts. (b) Acquisition of Time Warner in 2018. (c) Reductions to valuation allowances related to deferred tax assets. |
Summary Of Significant Accoun_4
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Millions | 3 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended | |||||||||||||||||||||
Dec. 31, 2018 | Sep. 30, 2018 | Jun. 30, 2018 | Mar. 31, 2018 | Dec. 31, 2017 | Sep. 30, 2017 | Jun. 30, 2017 | Mar. 31, 2017 | Dec. 31, 2018 | Dec. 31, 2017 | Dec. 31, 2016 | Jan. 01, 2018 | Dec. 31, 2015 | |||||||||||
Accounting Policies [Line Items] | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Inventories | $ 2,771 | $ 2,225 | $ 2,771 | $ 2,225 | |||||||||||||||||||
FCC licenses - typical term (in years) | 10 years | ||||||||||||||||||||||
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items] | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Income Tax Effects Allocated Directly to Equity, Cumulative Effect of Change in Accounting Principle | $ (658) | [1] | 1,529 | [2] | |||||||||||||||||||
Net Income attributable to AT&T - Financial Effect (in millions) | $ 4,858 | [3] | $ 4,718 | $ 5,132 | [3] | $ 4,662 | [3] | $ 19,037 | [3],[4] | $ 3,029 | $ 3,915 | [3] | $ 3,469 | $ 19,370 | $ 29,450 | $ 12,976 | |||||||
Net Income attributable to AT&T - Financial Effect (per share) | $ 0.66 | [5] | $ 0.65 | [5] | $ 0.81 | [5] | $ 0.75 | [5] | $ 3.08 | [5] | $ 0.49 | [5] | $ 0.63 | [5] | $ 0.56 | [5] | $ 2.85 | $ 4.76 | $ 2.1 | ||||
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Line Items] | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Cash | $ 3,130 | $ 3,130 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents | $ 5,204 | $ 50,498 | $ 5,204 | $ 50,498 | $ 5,788 | $ 5,121 | |||||||||||||||||
ASU 2018-02 [Member] | |||||||||||||||||||||||
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items] | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Income Tax Effects Allocated Directly to Equity, Cumulative Effect of Change in Accounting Principle | $ 1,529 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Entertainment Group [Member] | Customer Fulfillment Costs [Member] | |||||||||||||||||||||||
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items] | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Capitalized Contract Cost, Amortization Period | 4 years 10 months | 4 years 10 months | |||||||||||||||||||||
Other cost of revenues | $ (338) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Net Income attributable to AT&T - Financial Effect (in millions) | $ 338 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Net Income attributable to AT&T - Financial Effect (per share) | $ 0.05 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Change in Accounting Estimate Description | We updated our analysis of economic lives of customer relationships. As of April 1, 2018, we extended the amortization period to 58 months to better reflect the estimated economic lives of our Entertainment Group customers. | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Minimum [Member] | ASU 2016-02 [Member] | |||||||||||||||||||||||
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items] | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Change in Accounting Estimate Description | We have estimated the adoption will result in a right-of-use asset and corresponding lease liability on our consolidated balance sheet to be a mimumum of $20,000. | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Maximum [Member] | ASU 2016-02 [Member] | |||||||||||||||||||||||
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items] | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Change in Accounting Estimate Description | We have estimated the adoption will result in a right-of-use asset and corresponding lease liability on our consolidated balance sheet to be a maximum of $25,000. | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Software [Member] | Minimum [Member] | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Accounting Policies [Line Items] | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life | 3 years | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Software [Member] | Maximum [Member] | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Accounting Policies [Line Items] | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life | 7 years | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Money Market Funds [Member] | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Line Items] | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Cash equivalents | $ 2,074 | $ 2,074 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Foreign Jurisdictions [Member] | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Line Items] | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents | $ 1,930 | $ 1,930 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Retained Earnings [Member] | ASC 606 [Member] | |||||||||||||||||||||||
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items] | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Cumulative effect of accounting changes | $ 2,342 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Retained Earnings [Member] | ASU 2016-01 [Member] | |||||||||||||||||||||||
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items] | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Cumulative effect of accounting changes | 658 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Contract Asset [Member] | ASC 606 [Member] | |||||||||||||||||||||||
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items] | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Cumulative effect of accounting changes | 1,737 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Deferred Customer Contract Acquisition Costs Member [Member] | ASC 606 [Member] | |||||||||||||||||||||||
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items] | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Cumulative effect of accounting changes | 1,454 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Other Assets [Member] | ASC 606 [Member] | |||||||||||||||||||||||
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items] | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Cumulative effect of accounting changes | (239) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Other Liabilities [Member] | ASC 606 [Member] | |||||||||||||||||||||||
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items] | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Cumulative effect of accounting changes | (212) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Deferred Income Tax Liability [Member] | ASC 606 [Member] | |||||||||||||||||||||||
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items] | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Cumulative effect of accounting changes | 787 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Noncontrolling Interest [Member] | ASC 606 [Member] | |||||||||||||||||||||||
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items] | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Cumulative effect of accounting changes | 35 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member] | ASU 2016-01 [Member] | |||||||||||||||||||||||
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items] | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Cumulative effect of accounting changes | $ (658) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
[1] | With the adoption of ASU 2016-01, the unrealized (gains) losses on our equity investments are reclassified to retained earnings (see Note 1). | ||||||||||||||||||||||
[2] | With the adoption of ASU 2018-02, the stranded tax effects resulting from the application of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act are reclassified to retained earnings (see Note 1). | ||||||||||||||||||||||
[3] | Includes actuarial gains and losses on pension and postretirement benefit plans (Note 14). | ||||||||||||||||||||||
[4] | Includes an asset abandonment charge (Note 7) and the impact of federal corporate income tax reform (Note 13). | ||||||||||||||||||||||
[5] | Quarterly earnings per share impacts may not add to full-year earnings per share impacts due to the difference in weighted-average common shares for the quarters versus the weighted-average common shares for the year. |
Preparation Of Interim Financia
Preparation Of Interim Financial Statements (Consolidated Statements of Income) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | 3 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended | ||||||||||||||
Dec. 31, 2018 | [1] | Sep. 30, 2018 | Jun. 30, 2018 | [1] | Mar. 31, 2018 | [1] | Dec. 31, 2017 | [1],[2] | Sep. 30, 2017 | Jun. 30, 2017 | [1] | Mar. 31, 2017 | Dec. 31, 2018 | Dec. 31, 2017 | Dec. 31, 2016 | |
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Other cost of revenues | $ 32,906 | $ 37,942 | $ 38,582 | |||||||||||||
Selling, general and administrative | 36,765 | 35,465 | 36,845 | |||||||||||||
Operating Income (Loss) | $ 6,160 | $ 7,269 | $ 6,466 | $ 6,201 | $ 1,281 | $ 5,807 | $ 6,526 | $ 6,356 | 26,096 | 19,970 | 23,543 | |||||
Other income (expense) - net | 6,782 | 1,597 | 1,081 | |||||||||||||
Profit Loss | $ 5,130 | $ 4,816 | $ 5,248 | $ 4,759 | $ 19,136 | $ 3,123 | $ 4,014 | $ 3,574 | 19,953 | 29,847 | 13,333 | |||||
Historical Accounting Method [Member] | Adjustments for New Accounting Pronouncement [Member] | ||||||||||||||||
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Other cost of revenues | 31,533 | 37,511 | 38,276 | |||||||||||||
Selling, general and administrative | 32,416 | 34,917 | 36,347 | |||||||||||||
Operating Income (Loss) | 31,818 | 20,949 | 24,347 | |||||||||||||
Other income (expense) - net | 1,060 | 618 | 277 | |||||||||||||
Profit Loss | 19,953 | 29,847 | 13,333 | |||||||||||||
Effect of Adoption [Member] | ASU 2017-07 | ||||||||||||||||
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Other cost of revenues | 1,373 | 431 | 306 | |||||||||||||
Selling, general and administrative | 4,349 | 548 | 498 | |||||||||||||
Operating Income (Loss) | (5,722) | (979) | (804) | |||||||||||||
Other income (expense) - net | 5,722 | 979 | 804 | |||||||||||||
Profit Loss | $ 0 | $ 0 | $ 0 | |||||||||||||
[1] | Includes actuarial gains and losses on pension and postretirement benefit plans (Note 14). | |||||||||||||||
[2] | Includes an asset abandonment charge (Note 7) and the impact of federal corporate income tax reform (Note 13). |
Preparation Of Interim Financ_2
Preparation Of Interim Financial Statements (Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2018 | Dec. 31, 2017 | Dec. 31, 2016 | |
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items] | |||
Changes in other current assets | $ (6,442) | $ (778) | $ 1,709 |
Equipment installment receivables and related sales | (490) | (1,239) | (1,307) |
Other - net | 3,391 | (1,315) | (2,586) |
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities | 43,602 | 38,010 | 38,442 |
(Purchases) sales of securities, net | (185) | 449 | 672 |
Cash collections of deferred purchase price | 500 | 976 | 731 |
Cash (Used in) Provided by Investing Activities | (63,145) | (18,943) | (23,318) |
Change in cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash | (45,532) | 44,997 | 662 |
Historical Accounting Method [Member] | Adjustments for New Accounting Pronouncement [Member] | |||
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items] | |||
Changes in other current assets | (6,446) | (777) | 1,708 |
Equipment installment receivables and related sales | 10 | (263) | (576) |
Other - net | 3,520 | (1,151) | (2,414) |
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities | 44,227 | 39,151 | 39,344 |
(Purchases) sales of securities, net | 7 | (4) | 506 |
Cash collections of deferred purchase price | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Cash (Used in) Provided by Investing Activities | (63,453) | (20,372) | (24,215) |
Change in cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash | (45,215) | 44,710 | 667 |
Effect of Adoption [Member] | ASU 2016-15 [Member] | |||
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items] | |||
Changes in other current assets | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Equipment installment receivables and related sales | (500) | (976) | (731) |
Other - net | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities | (500) | (976) | (731) |
(Purchases) sales of securities, net | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Cash collections of deferred purchase price | 500 | 976 | 731 |
Cash (Used in) Provided by Investing Activities | 500 | 976 | 731 |
Change in cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Effect of Adoption [Member] | ASU 2016-18 [Member] | |||
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items] | |||
Changes in other current assets | 4 | (1) | 1 |
Equipment installment receivables and related sales | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Other - net | (129) | (164) | (172) |
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities | (125) | (165) | (171) |
(Purchases) sales of securities, net | (192) | 453 | 166 |
Cash collections of deferred purchase price | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Cash (Used in) Provided by Investing Activities | (192) | 453 | 166 |
Change in cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash | $ (317) | $ 287 | $ (5) |
Earnings Per Share (Details)
Earnings Per Share (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Millions, $ in Millions | 3 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended | |||||||||||||||||
Dec. 31, 2018 | Sep. 30, 2018 | Jun. 30, 2018 | Mar. 31, 2018 | Dec. 31, 2017 | Sep. 30, 2017 | Jun. 30, 2017 | Mar. 31, 2017 | Dec. 31, 2018 | Dec. 31, 2017 | Dec. 31, 2016 | |||||||||
Earnings Per Share | |||||||||||||||||||
Net Income | $ 5,130 | [1] | $ 4,816 | $ 5,248 | [1] | $ 4,759 | [1] | $ 19,136 | [1],[2] | $ 3,123 | $ 4,014 | [1] | $ 3,574 | $ 19,953 | $ 29,847 | $ 13,333 | |||
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interest | (583) | (397) | (357) | ||||||||||||||||
Net Income attributable to AT&T | $ 4,858 | [1] | $ 4,718 | $ 5,132 | [1] | $ 4,662 | [1] | $ 19,037 | [1],[2] | $ 3,029 | $ 3,915 | [1] | $ 3,469 | 19,370 | 29,450 | 12,976 | |||
Share-based payment | 19 | 13 | 13 | ||||||||||||||||
Numerator for diluted earnings per share | $ 19,389 | $ 29,463 | $ 12,989 | ||||||||||||||||
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding | 6,778 | 6,164 | 6,168 | ||||||||||||||||
Share-based payment (in shares) | 28 | 19 | 21 | ||||||||||||||||
Denominator for diluted earnings per share | 6,806 | 6,183 | 6,189 | ||||||||||||||||
Basic Earnings Per Share Attributable to AT&T | $ 0.66 | [3] | $ 0.65 | [3] | $ 0.81 | [3] | $ 0.75 | [3] | $ 3.08 | [3] | $ 0.49 | [3] | $ 0.63 | [3] | $ 0.56 | [3] | $ 2.85 | $ 4.77 | $ 2.1 |
Diluted Earnings Per Share Attributable to AT&T | $ 0.66 | [3] | $ 0.65 | [3] | $ 0.81 | [3] | $ 0.75 | [3] | $ 3.08 | [3] | $ 0.49 | [3] | $ 0.63 | [3] | $ 0.56 | [3] | $ 2.85 | $ 4.76 | $ 2.1 |
[1] | Includes actuarial gains and losses on pension and postretirement benefit plans (Note 14). | ||||||||||||||||||
[2] | Includes an asset abandonment charge (Note 7) and the impact of federal corporate income tax reform (Note 13). | ||||||||||||||||||
[3] | Quarterly earnings per share impacts may not add to full-year earnings per share impacts due to the difference in weighted-average common shares for the quarters versus the weighted-average common shares for the year. |
Accumulated Other Comprehensi_3
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | 12 Months Ended | |||||
Dec. 31, 2018 | Dec. 31, 2017 | Dec. 31, 2016 | ||||
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss [Line Items] | ||||||
Accumulated other comprehensive income, beginning balance | $ 7,017 | $ 4,961 | $ 5,334 | |||
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassification, net of tax | (801) | 1,661 | 448 | |||
Amounts reclassifed from accumulated OCI, net of tax | (1,309) | (1,134) | (821) | |||
Net other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax | (2,110) | 527 | (373) | |||
Cumulative effect of change in accounting change and other adjustments/Amounts reclassified to retained earnings | (658) | [1] | 1,529 | [2] | ||
Accumulated other comprehensive income, ending balance | 4,249 | 7,017 | 4,961 | |||
Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment [Member] | ||||||
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss [Line Items] | ||||||
Accumulated other comprehensive income, beginning balance | (2,054) | (1,995) | (1,198) | |||
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassification, net of tax | (1,030) | 20 | (797) | |||
Amounts reclassifed from accumulated OCI, net of tax | [3] | 0 | 0 | 0 | ||
Net other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax | (1,030) | 20 | (797) | |||
Cumulative effect of change in accounting change and other adjustments/Amounts reclassified to retained earnings | 0 | [1] | (79) | [2] | ||
Accumulated other comprehensive income, ending balance | (3,084) | (2,054) | (1,995) | |||
Net Unrealized Gains (Losses) on Available-for-Sale Securities [Member] | ||||||
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss [Line Items] | ||||||
Accumulated other comprehensive income, beginning balance | 660 | 541 | 484 | |||
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassification, net of tax | (4) | 187 | 58 | |||
Amounts reclassifed from accumulated OCI, net of tax | [3] | 0 | (185) | (1) | ||
Net other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax | (4) | 2 | 57 | |||
Cumulative effect of change in accounting change and other adjustments/Amounts reclassified to retained earnings | (658) | [1] | 117 | [2] | ||
Accumulated other comprehensive income, ending balance | (2) | 660 | 541 | |||
Net Unrealized Gains (Losses) on Cash Flow Hedges [Member] | ||||||
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss [Line Items] | ||||||
Accumulated other comprehensive income, beginning balance | 1,402 | 744 | 16 | |||
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassification, net of tax | (597) | 371 | 690 | |||
Amounts reclassifed from accumulated OCI, net of tax | [4] | 13 | 39 | 38 | ||
Net other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax | (584) | 410 | 728 | |||
Cumulative effect of change in accounting change and other adjustments/Amounts reclassified to retained earnings | 0 | [1] | 248 | [2] | ||
Accumulated other comprehensive income, ending balance | 818 | 1,402 | 744 | |||
Defined Benefit Postretirement Plans [Member] | ||||||
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss [Line Items] | ||||||
Accumulated other comprehensive income, beginning balance | 7,009 | 5,671 | 6,032 | |||
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassification, net of tax | 830 | 1,083 | 497 | |||
Amounts reclassifed from accumulated OCI, net of tax | [5] | (1,322) | (988) | (858) | ||
Net other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax | (492) | 95 | (361) | |||
Cumulative effect of change in accounting change and other adjustments/Amounts reclassified to retained earnings | 0 | [1] | 1,243 | [2] | ||
Accumulated other comprehensive income, ending balance | $ 6,517 | $ 7,009 | $ 5,671 | |||
[1] | With the adoption of ASU 2016-01, the unrealized (gains) losses on our equity investments are reclassified to retained earnings (see Note 1). | |||||
[2] | With the adoption of ASU 2018-02, the stranded tax effects resulting from the application of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act are reclassified to retained earnings (see Note 1). | |||||
[3] | (Gains) losses are included in Other income (expense) - net in the consolidated statements of income. | |||||
[4] | (Gains) losses are included in Interest expense in the consolidated statements of income (see Note 12). | |||||
[5] | The amortization of prior service credits associated with postretirement benefits are included in Other income (expense) in the consolidated statements of income (see Note 14). |
Segment Information (Summary Of
Segment Information (Summary Of Operating Revenues And Expenses By Segment) (Narrative) (Details) $ in Millions | 1 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended | ||
Jun. 30, 2018 | Dec. 31, 2018USD ($) | Dec. 31, 2017USD ($) | Dec. 31, 2016USD ($) | |
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] | ||||
Number of Reportable Segments | 4 | |||
Amortization of production costs | $ 3,772 | $ 0 | $ 0 | |
WarnerMedia [Member] | ||||
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] | ||||
Business Acquisition, Effective Date of Acquisition | Jun. 14, 2018 | |||
WarnerMedia [Member] | Content Production Costs [Member] | ||||
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] | ||||
Amortization of production costs | 3,314 | |||
WarnerMedia [Member] | Pre-Acquisition Released Programming Costs [Member] | ||||
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] | ||||
Amortization of production costs | $ 1,416 |
Segment Information (Reconcilia
Segment Information (Reconciliation of Revenue from Segments to Consolidated) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | 3 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended | ||||||||||||||
Dec. 31, 2018 | [1] | Sep. 30, 2018 | Jun. 30, 2018 | [1] | Mar. 31, 2018 | [1] | Dec. 31, 2017 | [1],[2] | Sep. 30, 2017 | Jun. 30, 2017 | [1] | Mar. 31, 2017 | Dec. 31, 2018 | Dec. 31, 2017 | Dec. 31, 2016 | |
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Revenues | $ 47,993 | $ 45,739 | $ 38,986 | $ 38,038 | $ 41,676 | $ 39,668 | $ 39,837 | $ 39,365 | $ 170,756 | $ 160,546 | $ 163,786 | |||||
Operations and Support Expenses | 116,230 | 116,189 | 114,396 | |||||||||||||
EBITDA | 54,526 | 44,357 | 49,390 | |||||||||||||
Depreciation and Amortization | 28,430 | 24,387 | 25,847 | |||||||||||||
Operating Income (Loss) | $ 6,160 | $ 7,269 | $ 6,466 | $ 6,201 | $ 1,281 | $ 5,807 | $ 6,526 | $ 6,356 | 26,096 | 19,970 | 23,543 | |||||
Equity in net income (loss) of affiliates | (48) | (128) | 98 | |||||||||||||
Segment Contribution | 24,873 | 15,139 | 19,812 | |||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | ||||||||||||||||
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Revenues | 172,964 | 160,450 | 163,266 | |||||||||||||
Operations and Support Expenses | 114,463 | 108,174 | 109,677 | |||||||||||||
EBITDA | 58,501 | 52,276 | 53,589 | |||||||||||||
Depreciation and Amortization | 19,976 | 19,649 | 20,545 | |||||||||||||
Operating Income (Loss) | 38,525 | 32,627 | 33,044 | |||||||||||||
Equity in net income (loss) of affiliates | 55 | 56 | 61 | |||||||||||||
Segment Contribution | 38,580 | 32,683 | 33,105 | |||||||||||||
Consolidation [Member] | ||||||||||||||||
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Revenues | 1,240 | 1,522 | 1,754 | |||||||||||||
Operations and Support Expenses | 1,630 | 3,306 | 3,458 | |||||||||||||
EBITDA | (390) | (1,784) | (1,704) | |||||||||||||
Depreciation and Amortization | 1,498 | 97 | 97 | |||||||||||||
Operating Income (Loss) | (1,451) | (1,214) | (1,233) | |||||||||||||
Consolidation [Member] | Acquisition-related Costs [Member] | ||||||||||||||||
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Revenues | (49) | 0 | 0 | |||||||||||||
Operations and Support Expenses | 1,185 | 798 | 1,203 | |||||||||||||
EBITDA | (1,234) | (798) | (1,203) | |||||||||||||
Depreciation and Amortization | 6,931 | 4,608 | 5,177 | |||||||||||||
Operating Income (Loss) | (8,165) | (5,406) | (6,380) | |||||||||||||
Eliminations and consolidations [Member] | ||||||||||||||||
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Revenues | (3,399) | (1,183) | (1,211) | |||||||||||||
Operations and Support Expenses | (1,947) | 31 | 23 | |||||||||||||
EBITDA | (1,452) | (1,214) | (1,234) | |||||||||||||
Depreciation and Amortization | (1) | 0 | (1) | |||||||||||||
Operating Income (Loss) | (1,451) | (1,214) | (1,233) | |||||||||||||
Certain Significant Items [Member] | ||||||||||||||||
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Revenues | 0 | (243) | (23) | |||||||||||||
Operations and Support Expenses | 899 | 3,880 | 35 | |||||||||||||
EBITDA | (899) | (4,123) | (58) | |||||||||||||
Depreciation and Amortization | 26 | 33 | 29 | |||||||||||||
Operating Income (Loss) | (925) | (4,156) | (87) | |||||||||||||
Communications [Member] | Operating Segments [Member] | ||||||||||||||||
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Revenues | 144,631 | 150,378 | 154,232 | |||||||||||||
Operations and Support Expenses | 93,941 | 100,266 | 102,430 | |||||||||||||
EBITDA | 50,690 | 50,112 | 51,802 | |||||||||||||
Depreciation and Amortization | 18,424 | 18,425 | 19,373 | |||||||||||||
Operating Income (Loss) | 32,266 | 31,687 | 32,429 | |||||||||||||
Equity in net income (loss) of affiliates | (4) | (2) | 8 | |||||||||||||
Segment Contribution | 32,262 | 31,685 | 32,437 | |||||||||||||
Communications [Member] | Mobility [Member] | Operating Segments [Member] | ||||||||||||||||
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Revenues | 71,344 | 71,090 | 72,587 | |||||||||||||
Operations and Support Expenses | 41,266 | 42,871 | 43,567 | |||||||||||||
EBITDA | 30,078 | 28,219 | 29,020 | |||||||||||||
Depreciation and Amortization | 8,355 | 8,015 | 8,277 | |||||||||||||
Operating Income (Loss) | 21,723 | 20,204 | 20,743 | |||||||||||||
Equity in net income (loss) of affiliates | (1) | 0 | 0 | |||||||||||||
Segment Contribution | 21,722 | 20,204 | 20,743 | |||||||||||||
Communications [Member] | Entertainment Group [Member] | Operating Segments [Member] | ||||||||||||||||
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Revenues | 46,460 | 49,995 | 50,660 | |||||||||||||
Operations and Support Expenses | 36,430 | 38,903 | 38,909 | |||||||||||||
EBITDA | 10,030 | 11,092 | 11,751 | |||||||||||||
Depreciation and Amortization | 5,315 | 5,621 | 5,861 | |||||||||||||
Operating Income (Loss) | 4,715 | 5,471 | 5,890 | |||||||||||||
Equity in net income (loss) of affiliates | (2) | 0 | 8 | |||||||||||||
Segment Contribution | 4,713 | 5,471 | 5,898 | |||||||||||||
Communications [Member] | Business Wireline [Member] | Operating Segments [Member] | ||||||||||||||||
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Revenues | 26,827 | 29,293 | 30,985 | |||||||||||||
Operations and Support Expenses | 16,245 | 18,492 | 19,954 | |||||||||||||
EBITDA | 10,582 | 10,801 | 11,031 | |||||||||||||
Depreciation and Amortization | 4,754 | 4,789 | 5,235 | |||||||||||||
Operating Income (Loss) | 5,828 | 6,012 | 5,796 | |||||||||||||
Equity in net income (loss) of affiliates | (1) | (2) | 0 | |||||||||||||
Segment Contribution | 5,827 | 6,010 | 5,796 | |||||||||||||
WarnerMedia [Member] | Operating Segments [Member] | ||||||||||||||||
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Revenues | 18,941 | 430 | 418 | |||||||||||||
Operations and Support Expenses | 12,966 | 335 | 318 | |||||||||||||
EBITDA | 5,975 | 95 | 100 | |||||||||||||
Depreciation and Amortization | 305 | 4 | 5 | |||||||||||||
Operating Income (Loss) | 5,670 | 91 | 95 | |||||||||||||
Equity in net income (loss) of affiliates | 25 | (29) | 1 | |||||||||||||
Segment Contribution | 5,695 | 62 | 96 | |||||||||||||
WarnerMedia [Member] | Turner [Member] | Operating Segments [Member] | ||||||||||||||||
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Revenues | 6,979 | 430 | 418 | |||||||||||||
Operations and Support Expenses | 3,794 | 331 | 318 | |||||||||||||
EBITDA | 3,185 | 99 | 100 | |||||||||||||
Depreciation and Amortization | 131 | 4 | 5 | |||||||||||||
Operating Income (Loss) | 3,054 | 95 | 95 | |||||||||||||
Equity in net income (loss) of affiliates | 54 | 45 | 52 | |||||||||||||
Segment Contribution | 3,108 | 140 | 147 | |||||||||||||
WarnerMedia [Member] | Home Box Office [Member] | Operating Segments [Member] | ||||||||||||||||
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Revenues | 3,598 | 0 | 0 | |||||||||||||
Operations and Support Expenses | 2,187 | 0 | 0 | |||||||||||||
EBITDA | 1,411 | 0 | 0 | |||||||||||||
Depreciation and Amortization | 56 | 0 | 0 | |||||||||||||
Operating Income (Loss) | 1,355 | 0 | 0 | |||||||||||||
Equity in net income (loss) of affiliates | 29 | 0 | 0 | |||||||||||||
Segment Contribution | 1,384 | 0 | 0 | |||||||||||||
WarnerMedia [Member] | Warner Bros. [Member] | Operating Segments [Member] | ||||||||||||||||
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Revenues | 8,703 | 0 | 0 | |||||||||||||
Operations and Support Expenses | 7,130 | 0 | 0 | |||||||||||||
EBITDA | 1,573 | 0 | 0 | |||||||||||||
Depreciation and Amortization | 96 | 0 | 0 | |||||||||||||
Operating Income (Loss) | 1,477 | 0 | 0 | |||||||||||||
Equity in net income (loss) of affiliates | (28) | 0 | 0 | |||||||||||||
Segment Contribution | 1,449 | 0 | 0 | |||||||||||||
WarnerMedia [Member] | Other Media Revenues [Member] | Operating Segments [Member] | ||||||||||||||||
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Revenues | (339) | 0 | 0 | |||||||||||||
Operations and Support Expenses | (145) | 4 | 0 | |||||||||||||
EBITDA | (194) | (4) | 0 | |||||||||||||
Depreciation and Amortization | 22 | 0 | 0 | |||||||||||||
Operating Income (Loss) | (216) | (4) | 0 | |||||||||||||
Equity in net income (loss) of affiliates | (30) | (74) | (51) | |||||||||||||
Segment Contribution | (246) | (78) | (51) | |||||||||||||
Latin America [Member] | Operating Segments [Member] | ||||||||||||||||
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Revenues | 7,652 | 8,269 | 7,283 | |||||||||||||
Operations and Support Expenses | 7,158 | 7,404 | 6,830 | |||||||||||||
EBITDA | 494 | 865 | 453 | |||||||||||||
Depreciation and Amortization | 1,238 | 1,218 | 1,166 | |||||||||||||
Operating Income (Loss) | (744) | (353) | (713) | |||||||||||||
Equity in net income (loss) of affiliates | 34 | 87 | 52 | |||||||||||||
Segment Contribution | (710) | (266) | (661) | |||||||||||||
Latin America [Member] | Vrio [Member] | Operating Segments [Member] | ||||||||||||||||
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Revenues | 4,784 | 5,456 | 4,910 | |||||||||||||
Operations and Support Expenses | 3,743 | 4,172 | 3,847 | |||||||||||||
EBITDA | 1,041 | 1,284 | 1,063 | |||||||||||||
Depreciation and Amortization | 728 | 849 | 834 | |||||||||||||
Operating Income (Loss) | 313 | 435 | 229 | |||||||||||||
Equity in net income (loss) of affiliates | 34 | 87 | 52 | |||||||||||||
Segment Contribution | 347 | 522 | 281 | |||||||||||||
Latin America [Member] | Mexico [Member] | Operating Segments [Member] | ||||||||||||||||
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Revenues | 2,868 | 2,813 | 2,373 | |||||||||||||
Operations and Support Expenses | 3,415 | 3,232 | 2,983 | |||||||||||||
EBITDA | (547) | (419) | (610) | |||||||||||||
Depreciation and Amortization | 510 | 369 | 332 | |||||||||||||
Operating Income (Loss) | (1,057) | (788) | (942) | |||||||||||||
Equity in net income (loss) of affiliates | 0 | 0 | 0 | |||||||||||||
Segment Contribution | (1,057) | (788) | (942) | |||||||||||||
Xandr [Member] | Operating Segments [Member] | ||||||||||||||||
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Revenues | 1,740 | 1,373 | 1,333 | |||||||||||||
Operations and Support Expenses | 398 | 169 | 99 | |||||||||||||
EBITDA | 1,342 | 1,204 | 1,234 | |||||||||||||
Depreciation and Amortization | 9 | 2 | 1 | |||||||||||||
Operating Income (Loss) | 1,333 | 1,202 | 1,233 | |||||||||||||
Equity in net income (loss) of affiliates | 0 | 0 | 0 | |||||||||||||
Segment Contribution | 1,333 | 1,202 | 1,233 | |||||||||||||
Corporate [Member] | ||||||||||||||||
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Revenues | 1,191 | |||||||||||||||
Corporate [Member] | Certain Significant Items [Member] | ||||||||||||||||
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Operating Income (Loss) | $ (1,888) | $ (1,881) | $ (1,801) | |||||||||||||
[1] | Includes actuarial gains and losses on pension and postretirement benefit plans (Note 14). | |||||||||||||||
[2] | Includes an asset abandonment charge (Note 7) and the impact of federal corporate income tax reform (Note 13). |
Segment Information (Reconcil_2
Segment Information (Reconciliation of Operating Profit (Loss) from Segments to Consolidated) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | 3 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended | ||||||||||||||
Dec. 31, 2018 | [1] | Sep. 30, 2018 | Jun. 30, 2018 | [1] | Mar. 31, 2018 | [1] | Dec. 31, 2017 | [1],[2] | Sep. 30, 2017 | Jun. 30, 2017 | [1] | Mar. 31, 2017 | Dec. 31, 2018 | Dec. 31, 2017 | Dec. 31, 2016 | |
Segment Reporting Reconciling Item For Operating Income (Loss) From Segment To Consolidated Statements Of Income [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
AT&T Operating Income | $ 6,160 | $ 7,269 | $ 6,466 | $ 6,201 | $ 1,281 | $ 5,807 | $ 6,526 | $ 6,356 | $ 26,096 | $ 19,970 | $ 23,543 | |||||
Interest expense | 7,957 | 6,300 | 4,910 | |||||||||||||
Equity in net income (loss) of affiliates | 48 | 128 | (98) | |||||||||||||
Other income (expense) - net | 6,782 | 1,597 | 1,081 | |||||||||||||
Income Before Income Taxes | 24,873 | 15,139 | 19,812 | |||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | ||||||||||||||||
Segment Reporting Reconciling Item For Operating Income (Loss) From Segment To Consolidated Statements Of Income [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
AT&T Operating Income | 38,525 | 32,627 | 33,044 | |||||||||||||
Equity in net income (loss) of affiliates | (55) | (56) | (61) | |||||||||||||
Income Before Income Taxes | 38,580 | 32,683 | 33,105 | |||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | Communications [Member] | ||||||||||||||||
Segment Reporting Reconciling Item For Operating Income (Loss) From Segment To Consolidated Statements Of Income [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
AT&T Operating Income | 32,266 | 31,687 | 32,429 | |||||||||||||
Equity in net income (loss) of affiliates | 4 | 2 | (8) | |||||||||||||
Income Before Income Taxes | 32,262 | 31,685 | 32,437 | |||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | WarnerMedia [Member] | ||||||||||||||||
Segment Reporting Reconciling Item For Operating Income (Loss) From Segment To Consolidated Statements Of Income [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
AT&T Operating Income | 5,670 | 91 | 95 | |||||||||||||
Equity in net income (loss) of affiliates | (25) | 29 | (1) | |||||||||||||
Income Before Income Taxes | 5,695 | 62 | 96 | |||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | Latin America [Member] | ||||||||||||||||
Segment Reporting Reconciling Item For Operating Income (Loss) From Segment To Consolidated Statements Of Income [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
AT&T Operating Income | (744) | (353) | (713) | |||||||||||||
Equity in net income (loss) of affiliates | (34) | (87) | (52) | |||||||||||||
Income Before Income Taxes | (710) | (266) | (661) | |||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | Xandr [Member] | ||||||||||||||||
Segment Reporting Reconciling Item For Operating Income (Loss) From Segment To Consolidated Statements Of Income [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
AT&T Operating Income | 1,333 | 1,202 | 1,233 | |||||||||||||
Equity in net income (loss) of affiliates | 0 | 0 | 0 | |||||||||||||
Income Before Income Taxes | 1,333 | 1,202 | 1,233 | |||||||||||||
Certain Significant Items [Member] | ||||||||||||||||
Segment Reporting Reconciling Item For Operating Income (Loss) From Segment To Consolidated Statements Of Income [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
AT&T Operating Income | (925) | (4,156) | (87) | |||||||||||||
Certain Significant Items [Member] | Corporate and Other [Member] | ||||||||||||||||
Segment Reporting Reconciling Item For Operating Income (Loss) From Segment To Consolidated Statements Of Income [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
AT&T Operating Income | (1,888) | (1,881) | (1,801) | |||||||||||||
Merger and intergration charges | ||||||||||||||||
Segment Reporting Reconciling Item For Operating Income (Loss) From Segment To Consolidated Statements Of Income [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
AT&T Operating Income | (1,234) | (798) | (1,203) | |||||||||||||
Amortization of intangibles acquired | ||||||||||||||||
Segment Reporting Reconciling Item For Operating Income (Loss) From Segment To Consolidated Statements Of Income [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
AT&T Operating Income | (6,931) | (4,608) | (5,177) | |||||||||||||
Employee separation charges | ||||||||||||||||
Segment Reporting Reconciling Item For Operating Income (Loss) From Segment To Consolidated Statements Of Income [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
AT&T Operating Income | (587) | (445) | (344) | |||||||||||||
Gain On wireless spectrum transactions [Member] | ||||||||||||||||
Segment Reporting Reconciling Item For Operating Income (Loss) From Segment To Consolidated Statements Of Income [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
AT&T Operating Income | 0 | 181 | 714 | |||||||||||||
Natural disaster costs and revenue credits | ||||||||||||||||
Segment Reporting Reconciling Item For Operating Income (Loss) From Segment To Consolidated Statements Of Income [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
AT&T Operating Income | (181) | (626) | (67) | |||||||||||||
Impairments and other charges | ||||||||||||||||
Segment Reporting Reconciling Item For Operating Income (Loss) From Segment To Consolidated Statements Of Income [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
AT&T Operating Income | (157) | (3,046) | (390) | |||||||||||||
Tax Reform Special Bonus [Member] | ||||||||||||||||
Segment Reporting Reconciling Item For Operating Income (Loss) From Segment To Consolidated Statements Of Income [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
AT&T Operating Income | 0 | (220) | 0 | |||||||||||||
Segment equity in net income (loss) of affiliates | ||||||||||||||||
Segment Reporting Reconciling Item For Operating Income (Loss) From Segment To Consolidated Statements Of Income [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
AT&T Operating Income | (55) | (56) | (61) | |||||||||||||
Eliminations and consolidations | ||||||||||||||||
Segment Reporting Reconciling Item For Operating Income (Loss) From Segment To Consolidated Statements Of Income [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
AT&T Operating Income | $ (1,451) | $ (1,214) | $ (1,233) | |||||||||||||
[1] | Includes actuarial gains and losses on pension and postretirement benefit plans (Note 14). | |||||||||||||||
[2] | Includes an asset abandonment charge (Note 7) and the impact of federal corporate income tax reform (Note 13). |
Segment Information (Schedule o
Segment Information (Schedule of Revenues by Geographic Region) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | 3 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended | ||||||||||||||
Dec. 31, 2018 | Sep. 30, 2018 | Jun. 30, 2018 | [1] | Mar. 31, 2018 | [1] | Dec. 31, 2017 | Sep. 30, 2017 | Jun. 30, 2017 | [1] | Mar. 31, 2017 | Dec. 31, 2018 | Dec. 31, 2017 | Dec. 31, 2016 | |||
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Revenues | $ 47,993 | [1] | $ 45,739 | $ 38,986 | $ 38,038 | $ 41,676 | [1],[2] | $ 39,668 | $ 39,837 | $ 39,365 | $ 170,756 | $ 160,546 | $ 163,786 | |||
Net Property, Plant & Equipment | 131,473 | 125,222 | 131,473 | 125,222 | 124,899 | |||||||||||
United States [Member] | ||||||||||||||||
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Revenues | 154,795 | 149,841 | 154,039 | |||||||||||||
Net Property, Plant & Equipment | 123,457 | 118,200 | 123,457 | 118,200 | 118,664 | |||||||||||
Europe [Member] | ||||||||||||||||
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Revenues | 4,073 | 1,064 | 1,122 | |||||||||||||
Net Property, Plant & Equipment | 1,634 | 392 | 1,634 | 392 | 374 | |||||||||||
Mexico [Member] | ||||||||||||||||
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Revenues | 3,100 | 2,913 | 2,472 | |||||||||||||
Net Property, Plant & Equipment | 3,467 | 3,619 | 3,467 | 3,619 | 2,520 | |||||||||||
Brazil [Member] | ||||||||||||||||
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Revenues | 2,724 | 2,948 | 2,797 | |||||||||||||
Net Property, Plant & Equipment | 1,213 | 1,447 | 1,213 | 1,447 | 1,265 | |||||||||||
Asia/Pacific Rim [Member] | ||||||||||||||||
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Revenues | 2,214 | 829 | 817 | |||||||||||||
Net Property, Plant & Equipment | 408 | 194 | 408 | 194 | 189 | |||||||||||
All other Latin America [Member] | ||||||||||||||||
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Revenues | 3,055 | 2,743 | 2,348 | |||||||||||||
Net Property, Plant & Equipment | 1,217 | 1,294 | 1,217 | 1,294 | 1,828 | |||||||||||
Other [Member] | ||||||||||||||||
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Revenues | 795 | 208 | 191 | |||||||||||||
Net Property, Plant & Equipment | $ 77 | $ 76 | $ 77 | $ 76 | $ 59 | |||||||||||
[1] | Includes actuarial gains and losses on pension and postretirement benefit plans (Note 14). | |||||||||||||||
[2] | Includes an asset abandonment charge (Note 7) and the impact of federal corporate income tax reform (Note 13). |
Segment Information (Intersegme
Segment Information (Intersegment Details) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | 3 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended | ||||||||||||||
Dec. 31, 2018 | [1] | Sep. 30, 2018 | Jun. 30, 2018 | [1] | Mar. 31, 2018 | [1] | Dec. 31, 2017 | [1],[2] | Sep. 30, 2017 | Jun. 30, 2017 | [1] | Mar. 31, 2017 | Dec. 31, 2018 | Dec. 31, 2017 | Dec. 31, 2016 | |
Revenues [Abstract] | ||||||||||||||||
Total revenues | $ (47,993) | $ (45,739) | $ (38,986) | $ (38,038) | $ (41,676) | $ (39,668) | $ (39,837) | $ (39,365) | $ (170,756) | $ (160,546) | $ (163,786) | |||||
Operating Segments [Member] | ||||||||||||||||
Revenues [Abstract] | ||||||||||||||||
Total revenues | (172,964) | (160,450) | (163,266) | |||||||||||||
Total Intersegment Revenues [Member] | ||||||||||||||||
Revenues [Abstract] | ||||||||||||||||
Total revenues | 1,888 | 134 | 134 | |||||||||||||
Eliminations and consolidations [Member] | ||||||||||||||||
Revenues [Abstract] | ||||||||||||||||
Total revenues | 3,399 | 1,183 | 1,211 | |||||||||||||
Communications [Member] | Operating Segments [Member] | ||||||||||||||||
Revenues [Abstract] | ||||||||||||||||
Total revenues | (144,631) | (150,378) | (154,232) | |||||||||||||
Communications [Member] | Total Intersegment Revenues [Member] | ||||||||||||||||
Revenues [Abstract] | ||||||||||||||||
Total revenues | 13 | 0 | 0 | |||||||||||||
WarnerMedia [Member] | Operating Segments [Member] | ||||||||||||||||
Revenues [Abstract] | ||||||||||||||||
Total revenues | (18,941) | (430) | (418) | |||||||||||||
WarnerMedia [Member] | Total Intersegment Revenues [Member] | ||||||||||||||||
Revenues [Abstract] | ||||||||||||||||
Total revenues | 1,875 | 134 | 134 | |||||||||||||
Latin America [Member] | Operating Segments [Member] | ||||||||||||||||
Revenues [Abstract] | ||||||||||||||||
Total revenues | (7,652) | (8,269) | (7,283) | |||||||||||||
Latin America [Member] | Total Intersegment Revenues [Member] | ||||||||||||||||
Revenues [Abstract] | ||||||||||||||||
Total revenues | 0 | 0 | 0 | |||||||||||||
Xandr [Member] | Operating Segments [Member] | ||||||||||||||||
Revenues [Abstract] | ||||||||||||||||
Total revenues | (1,740) | (1,373) | (1,333) | |||||||||||||
Xandr [Member] | Total Intersegment Revenues [Member] | ||||||||||||||||
Revenues [Abstract] | ||||||||||||||||
Total revenues | 0 | 0 | 0 | |||||||||||||
Consolidation [Member] | ||||||||||||||||
Revenues [Abstract] | ||||||||||||||||
Total revenues | $ 1,511 | $ 1,049 | $ 1,077 | |||||||||||||
[1] | Includes actuarial gains and losses on pension and postretirement benefit plans (Note 14). | |||||||||||||||
[2] | Includes an asset abandonment charge (Note 7) and the impact of federal corporate income tax reform (Note 13). |
Segment Information (Interseg_2
Segment Information (Intersegment Assets, Equity Affiliates Investments and Capital Expenditures Details) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | Dec. 31, 2018 | Dec. 31, 2017 | Dec. 31, 2016 |
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] | |||
Total Assets | $ 531,864 | $ 444,097 | |
Investments in Equity Affiliates | 6,245 | $ 1,560 | $ 1,674 |
Capital Expenditures | 21,251 | ||
Corporate and eliminations [Member] | |||
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] | |||
Total Assets | (106,815) | ||
Investments in Equity Affiliates | 18 | ||
Capital Expenditures | 310 | ||
Communications [Member] | |||
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] | |||
Total Assets | 485,360 | ||
Investments in Equity Affiliates | 3 | ||
Capital Expenditures | 19,509 | ||
WarnerMedia [Member] | |||
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] | |||
Total Assets | 132,453 | ||
Investments in Equity Affiliates | 5,547 | ||
Capital Expenditures | 581 | ||
Latin America [Member] | |||
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] | |||
Total Assets | 18,148 | ||
Investments in Equity Affiliates | 677 | ||
Capital Expenditures | 745 | ||
Xandr [Member] | |||
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] | |||
Total Assets | 2,718 | ||
Investments in Equity Affiliates | 0 | ||
Capital Expenditures | $ 106 |
Revenue Recognition (Narrative)
Revenue Recognition (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2018 | Dec. 31, 2017 | Dec. 31, 2016 | |
Concentration Risk [Line Items] | |||
Number of customers exceeding threshold for significance | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Threshold for customer significance (as a percent of consolidated revenues) (in hundredths) | 10.00% | 10.00% | 10.00% |
Contract with Customer, Asset and Liability [Abstract] | |||
Beginning of period contract liability recorded as customer contract revenue during period | $ 5,677 | ||
Contract asset balance - current portion (in millions) | 1,244 | ||
Contract liability balance - current portion (in millions) | 5,752 | ||
Revenue, Performance Obligation [Abstract] | |||
Aggregate amount of the transaction price allocated to remaining performance obligations (in millions) | $ 39,871 | ||
Revenue, Performance Obligation, Description of Timing | As of December 31, 2018, the aggregate amount of the transaction price allocated to remaining performance obligations was $39,871 of which we expect to recognize approximately 55% next year and 80% over the next two years, with the balance recognized thereafter. | ||
Deferred Customer Contract Acquisition Costs Member [Member] | |||
Capitalized Contract Cost, Net [Abstract] | |||
Capitalized Contract Cost, Net (in millions) | $ 3,974 | ||
Capitalized Contract Cost, Amortization Method | Costs to acquire customer contracts, including commissions on service activations, for our wireless and video entertainment services, are deferred and amortized over the contract period or expected customer life, which typically ranges from two to five years. For contracts with an estimated amortization period of less than one year, we expense incremental costs immediately. | ||
Deferred Customer Contract Acquisition Costs Member [Member] | Minimum [Member] | |||
Capitalized Contract Cost, Net [Abstract] | |||
Capitalized Contract Cost, Amortization Period | 2 years | ||
Deferred Customer Contract Acquisition Costs Member [Member] | Maximum [Member] | |||
Capitalized Contract Cost, Net [Abstract] | |||
Capitalized Contract Cost, Amortization Period | 5 years | ||
Deferred Customer Contract Acquisition Costs Member [Member] | Other Current Assets [Member] | |||
Capitalized Contract Cost, Net [Abstract] | |||
Capitalized Contract Cost, Net (in millions) | $ 1,901 | ||
Capitalized Contract Cost, Amortization (in millions) | 1,433 | ||
Deferred Customer Contract Fulfillment Cost Member [Member] | |||
Capitalized Contract Cost, Net [Abstract] | |||
Capitalized Contract Cost, Net (in millions) | $ 11,540 | ||
Capitalized Contract Cost, Amortization Method | Costs to fulfill customer contracts are deferred and amortized over periods ranging generally from four to five years, reflecting the estimated economic lives of the respective customer relationships, subject to an assessment of the recoverability of such costs. For contracts with an estimated amortization period of less than one year, we expense incremental costs immediately. | ||
Deferred Customer Contract Fulfillment Cost Member [Member] | Minimum [Member] | |||
Capitalized Contract Cost, Net [Abstract] | |||
Capitalized Contract Cost, Amortization Period | 4 years | ||
Deferred Customer Contract Fulfillment Cost Member [Member] | Maximum [Member] | |||
Capitalized Contract Cost, Net [Abstract] | |||
Capitalized Contract Cost, Amortization Period | 5 years | ||
Deferred Customer Contract Fulfillment Cost Member [Member] | Other Current Assets [Member] | |||
Capitalized Contract Cost, Net [Abstract] | |||
Capitalized Contract Cost, Net (in millions) | $ 4,090 | ||
Capitalized Contract Cost, Amortization (in millions) | $ 4,039 |
Revenue Recognition (Revenue Ca
Revenue Recognition (Revenue Categories) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | 3 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended | ||||||||||||||
Dec. 31, 2018 | [1] | Sep. 30, 2018 | Jun. 30, 2018 | [1] | Mar. 31, 2018 | [1] | Dec. 31, 2017 | [1],[2] | Sep. 30, 2017 | Jun. 30, 2017 | [1] | Mar. 31, 2017 | Dec. 31, 2018 | Dec. 31, 2017 | Dec. 31, 2016 | |
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | $ 47,993 | $ 45,739 | $ 38,986 | $ 38,038 | $ 41,676 | $ 39,668 | $ 39,837 | $ 39,365 | $ 170,756 | $ 160,546 | $ 163,786 | |||||
Wireless service | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 56,402 | |||||||||||||||
Advanced Data | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 20,266 | |||||||||||||||
Legacy Voice and Data | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 13,738 | |||||||||||||||
Subscription | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 44,075 | |||||||||||||||
Content | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 6,541 | |||||||||||||||
Advertising | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 4,433 | |||||||||||||||
Other | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 6,890 | |||||||||||||||
Equipment | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 18,411 | |||||||||||||||
Corporate and Other [Member] | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 1,191 | |||||||||||||||
Corporate and Other [Member] | Wireless service | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 0 | |||||||||||||||
Corporate and Other [Member] | Advanced Data | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 0 | |||||||||||||||
Corporate and Other [Member] | Legacy Voice and Data | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 0 | |||||||||||||||
Corporate and Other [Member] | Subscription | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 0 | |||||||||||||||
Corporate and Other [Member] | Content | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 0 | |||||||||||||||
Corporate and Other [Member] | Advertising | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 0 | |||||||||||||||
Corporate and Other [Member] | Other | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 1,191 | |||||||||||||||
Corporate and Other [Member] | Equipment | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 0 | |||||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 172,964 | 160,450 | 163,266 | |||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | Communications [Member] | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 144,631 | 150,378 | 154,232 | |||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | Communications [Member] | Mobility [Member] | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 71,344 | 71,090 | 72,587 | |||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | Communications [Member] | Mobility [Member] | Wireless service | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 54,701 | |||||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | Communications [Member] | Mobility [Member] | Advanced Data | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 0 | |||||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | Communications [Member] | Mobility [Member] | Legacy Voice and Data | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 0 | |||||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | Communications [Member] | Mobility [Member] | Subscription | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 0 | |||||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | Communications [Member] | Mobility [Member] | Content | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 0 | |||||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | Communications [Member] | Mobility [Member] | Advertising | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 232 | |||||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | Communications [Member] | Mobility [Member] | Other | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 0 | |||||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | Communications [Member] | Mobility [Member] | Equipment | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 16,411 | |||||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | Communications [Member] | Entertainment Group [Member] | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 46,460 | 49,995 | 50,660 | |||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | Communications [Member] | Entertainment Group [Member] | Wireless service | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 0 | |||||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | Communications [Member] | Entertainment Group [Member] | Advanced Data | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 7,956 | |||||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | Communications [Member] | Entertainment Group [Member] | Legacy Voice and Data | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 3,041 | |||||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | Communications [Member] | Entertainment Group [Member] | Subscription | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 31,762 | |||||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | Communications [Member] | Entertainment Group [Member] | Content | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 0 | |||||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | Communications [Member] | Entertainment Group [Member] | Advertising | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 1,595 | |||||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | Communications [Member] | Entertainment Group [Member] | Other | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 2,097 | |||||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | Communications [Member] | Entertainment Group [Member] | Equipment | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 9 | |||||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | Communications [Member] | Business Wireline [Member] | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 26,827 | 29,293 | 30,985 | |||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | Communications [Member] | Business Wireline [Member] | Wireless service | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 0 | |||||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | Communications [Member] | Business Wireline [Member] | Advanced Data | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 12,310 | |||||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | Communications [Member] | Business Wireline [Member] | Legacy Voice and Data | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 10,697 | |||||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | Communications [Member] | Business Wireline [Member] | Subscription | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 0 | |||||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | Communications [Member] | Business Wireline [Member] | Content | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 0 | |||||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | Communications [Member] | Business Wireline [Member] | Advertising | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 0 | |||||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | Communications [Member] | Business Wireline [Member] | Other | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 2,996 | |||||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | Communications [Member] | Business Wireline [Member] | Equipment | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 824 | |||||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | WarnerMedia [Member] | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 18,941 | 430 | 418 | |||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | WarnerMedia [Member] | Turner [Member] | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 6,979 | 430 | 418 | |||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | WarnerMedia [Member] | Turner [Member] | Wireless service | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 0 | |||||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | WarnerMedia [Member] | Turner [Member] | Advanced Data | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 0 | |||||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | WarnerMedia [Member] | Turner [Member] | Legacy Voice and Data | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 0 | |||||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | WarnerMedia [Member] | Turner [Member] | Subscription | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 4,207 | |||||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | WarnerMedia [Member] | Turner [Member] | Content | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 295 | |||||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | WarnerMedia [Member] | Turner [Member] | Advertising | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 2,330 | |||||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | WarnerMedia [Member] | Turner [Member] | Other | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 147 | |||||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | WarnerMedia [Member] | Turner [Member] | Equipment | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 0 | |||||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | WarnerMedia [Member] | Home Box Office [Member] | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 3,598 | 0 | 0 | |||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | WarnerMedia [Member] | Home Box Office [Member] | Wireless service | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 0 | |||||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | WarnerMedia [Member] | Home Box Office [Member] | Advanced Data | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 0 | |||||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | WarnerMedia [Member] | Home Box Office [Member] | Legacy Voice and Data | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 0 | |||||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | WarnerMedia [Member] | Home Box Office [Member] | Subscription | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 3,201 | |||||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | WarnerMedia [Member] | Home Box Office [Member] | Content | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 391 | |||||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | WarnerMedia [Member] | Home Box Office [Member] | Advertising | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 0 | |||||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | WarnerMedia [Member] | Home Box Office [Member] | Other | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 6 | |||||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | WarnerMedia [Member] | Home Box Office [Member] | Equipment | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 0 | |||||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | WarnerMedia [Member] | Warner Bros. [Member] | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 8,703 | 0 | 0 | |||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | WarnerMedia [Member] | Warner Bros. [Member] | Wireless service | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 0 | |||||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | WarnerMedia [Member] | Warner Bros. [Member] | Advanced Data | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 0 | |||||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | WarnerMedia [Member] | Warner Bros. [Member] | Legacy Voice and Data | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 0 | |||||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | WarnerMedia [Member] | Warner Bros. [Member] | Subscription | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 47 | |||||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | WarnerMedia [Member] | Warner Bros. [Member] | Content | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 8,216 | |||||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | WarnerMedia [Member] | Warner Bros. [Member] | Advertising | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 53 | |||||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | WarnerMedia [Member] | Warner Bros. [Member] | Other | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 387 | |||||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | WarnerMedia [Member] | Warner Bros. [Member] | Equipment | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 0 | |||||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | WarnerMedia [Member] | Eliminations and other [Member] | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | (339) | |||||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | WarnerMedia [Member] | Eliminations and other [Member] | Wireless service | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 0 | |||||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | WarnerMedia [Member] | Eliminations and other [Member] | Advanced Data | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 0 | |||||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | WarnerMedia [Member] | Eliminations and other [Member] | Legacy Voice and Data | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 0 | |||||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | WarnerMedia [Member] | Eliminations and other [Member] | Subscription | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 74 | |||||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | WarnerMedia [Member] | Eliminations and other [Member] | Content | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | (518) | |||||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | WarnerMedia [Member] | Eliminations and other [Member] | Advertising | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 78 | |||||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | WarnerMedia [Member] | Eliminations and other [Member] | Other | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 27 | |||||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | WarnerMedia [Member] | Eliminations and other [Member] | Equipment | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 0 | |||||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | Latin America [Member] | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 7,652 | 8,269 | 7,283 | |||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | Latin America [Member] | Vrio [Member] | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 4,784 | 5,456 | 4,910 | |||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | Latin America [Member] | Vrio [Member] | Wireless service | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 0 | |||||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | Latin America [Member] | Vrio [Member] | Advanced Data | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 0 | |||||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | Latin America [Member] | Vrio [Member] | Legacy Voice and Data | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 0 | |||||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | Latin America [Member] | Vrio [Member] | Subscription | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 4,784 | |||||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | Latin America [Member] | Vrio [Member] | Content | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 0 | |||||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | Latin America [Member] | Vrio [Member] | Advertising | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 0 | |||||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | Latin America [Member] | Vrio [Member] | Other | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 0 | |||||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | Latin America [Member] | Vrio [Member] | Equipment | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 0 | |||||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | Latin America [Member] | Mexico [Member] | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 2,868 | 2,813 | 2,373 | |||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | Latin America [Member] | Mexico [Member] | Wireless service | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 1,701 | |||||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | Latin America [Member] | Mexico [Member] | Advanced Data | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 0 | |||||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | Latin America [Member] | Mexico [Member] | Legacy Voice and Data | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 0 | |||||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | Latin America [Member] | Mexico [Member] | Subscription | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 0 | |||||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | Latin America [Member] | Mexico [Member] | Content | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 0 | |||||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | Latin America [Member] | Mexico [Member] | Advertising | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 0 | |||||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | Latin America [Member] | Mexico [Member] | Other | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 0 | |||||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | Latin America [Member] | Mexico [Member] | Equipment | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 1,167 | |||||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | Xandr [Member] | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 1,740 | 1,373 | 1,333 | |||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | Xandr [Member] | Wireless service | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 0 | |||||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | Xandr [Member] | Advanced Data | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 0 | |||||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | Xandr [Member] | Legacy Voice and Data | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 0 | |||||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | Xandr [Member] | Subscription | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 0 | |||||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | Xandr [Member] | Content | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 0 | |||||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | Xandr [Member] | Advertising | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 1,740 | |||||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | Xandr [Member] | Other | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 0 | |||||||||||||||
Operating Segments [Member] | Xandr [Member] | Equipment | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 0 | |||||||||||||||
Eliminations and consolidations [Member] | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | (3,399) | $ (1,183) | $ (1,211) | |||||||||||||
Eliminations and consolidations [Member] | Wireless service | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 0 | |||||||||||||||
Eliminations and consolidations [Member] | Advanced Data | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 0 | |||||||||||||||
Eliminations and consolidations [Member] | Legacy Voice and Data | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 0 | |||||||||||||||
Eliminations and consolidations [Member] | Subscription | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 0 | |||||||||||||||
Eliminations and consolidations [Member] | Content | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | (1,843) | |||||||||||||||
Eliminations and consolidations [Member] | Advertising | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | (1,595) | |||||||||||||||
Eliminations and consolidations [Member] | Other | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 39 | |||||||||||||||
Eliminations and consolidations [Member] | Equipment | ||||||||||||||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | $ 0 | |||||||||||||||
[1] | Includes actuarial gains and losses on pension and postretirement benefit plans (Note 14). | |||||||||||||||
[2] | Includes an asset abandonment charge (Note 7) and the impact of federal corporate income tax reform (Note 13). |
Revenue Recognition (Contract A
Revenue Recognition (Contract Assets and Liabilities) (Details) $ in Millions | Dec. 31, 2018USD ($) |
Contract with Customer, Asset and Liability [Abstract] | |
Contract asset | $ 1,896 |
Contract liability | $ 6,856 |
Revenue Recognition (Consolidat
Revenue Recognition (Consolidated Statements of Income) (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Millions | 3 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended | |||||||||||||||||
Dec. 31, 2018 | Sep. 30, 2018 | Jun. 30, 2018 | Mar. 31, 2018 | Dec. 31, 2017 | Sep. 30, 2017 | Jun. 30, 2017 | Mar. 31, 2017 | Dec. 31, 2018 | Dec. 31, 2017 | Dec. 31, 2016 | |||||||||
Revenue, Initial Application Period Cumulative Effect Transition [Line Items] | |||||||||||||||||||
Service Revenues | $ 152,345 | $ 145,597 | $ 148,884 | ||||||||||||||||
Equipment Revenues | 18,411 | 14,949 | 14,902 | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | $ 47,993 | [1] | $ 45,739 | $ 38,986 | [1] | $ 38,038 | [1] | $ 41,676 | [1],[2] | $ 39,668 | $ 39,837 | [1] | $ 39,365 | 170,756 | 160,546 | 163,786 | |||
Other cost of revenues | 32,906 | 37,942 | 38,582 | ||||||||||||||||
Selling, general and administrative | 36,765 | 35,465 | 36,845 | ||||||||||||||||
Total operating expenses | 144,660 | 140,576 | 140,243 | ||||||||||||||||
Operating Income | 6,160 | [1] | 7,269 | 6,466 | [1] | 6,201 | [1] | 1,281 | [1],[2] | 5,807 | 6,526 | [1] | 6,356 | 26,096 | 19,970 | 23,543 | |||
Income Before Income Taxes | 24,873 | 15,139 | 19,812 | ||||||||||||||||
Income taxes expense | 4,920 | (14,708) | 6,479 | ||||||||||||||||
Net Income | 5,130 | [1] | 4,816 | 5,248 | [1] | 4,759 | [1] | 19,136 | [1],[2] | 3,123 | 4,014 | [1] | 3,574 | 19,953 | 29,847 | 13,333 | |||
Net Income attributable to AT&T | $ 4,858 | [1] | $ 4,718 | $ 5,132 | [1] | $ 4,662 | [1] | $ 19,037 | [1],[2] | $ 3,029 | $ 3,915 | [1] | $ 3,469 | $ 19,370 | $ 29,450 | $ 12,976 | |||
Basic Earnings Per Share Attributable to AT&T | $ 0.66 | [3] | $ 0.65 | [3] | $ 0.81 | [3] | $ 0.75 | [3] | $ 3.08 | [3] | $ 0.49 | [3] | $ 0.63 | [3] | $ 0.56 | [3] | $ 2.85 | $ 4.77 | $ 2.1 |
Diluted Earnings Per Share Attributable to AT&T | $ 0.66 | [3] | $ 0.65 | [3] | $ 0.81 | [3] | $ 0.75 | [3] | $ 3.08 | [3] | $ 0.49 | [3] | $ 0.63 | [3] | $ 0.56 | [3] | $ 2.85 | $ 4.76 | $ 2.1 |
Calculated under Revenue Guidance in Effect before Topic 606 [Member] | |||||||||||||||||||
Revenue, Initial Application Period Cumulative Effect Transition [Line Items] | |||||||||||||||||||
Service Revenues | $ 157,979 | ||||||||||||||||||
Equipment Revenues | 16,324 | ||||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | 174,303 | ||||||||||||||||||
Other cost of revenues | 36,636 | ||||||||||||||||||
Selling, general and administrative | 38,961 | ||||||||||||||||||
Total operating expenses | 150,586 | ||||||||||||||||||
Operating Income | 23,717 | ||||||||||||||||||
Income Before Income Taxes | 22,494 | ||||||||||||||||||
Income taxes expense | 4,337 | ||||||||||||||||||
Net Income | 18,157 | ||||||||||||||||||
Net Income attributable to AT&T | $ 17,597 | ||||||||||||||||||
Basic Earnings Per Share Attributable to AT&T | $ 2.59 | ||||||||||||||||||
Diluted Earnings Per Share Attributable to AT&T | $ 2.59 | ||||||||||||||||||
[1] | Includes actuarial gains and losses on pension and postretirement benefit plans (Note 14). | ||||||||||||||||||
[2] | Includes an asset abandonment charge (Note 7) and the impact of federal corporate income tax reform (Note 13). | ||||||||||||||||||
[3] | Quarterly earnings per share impacts may not add to full-year earnings per share impacts due to the difference in weighted-average common shares for the quarters versus the weighted-average common shares for the year. |
Revenue Recognition (Consolid_2
Revenue Recognition (Consolidated Balance Sheet) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | Dec. 31, 2018 | Dec. 31, 2017 | Dec. 31, 2016 | Dec. 31, 2015 |
Revenue, Initial Application Period Cumulative Effect Transition [Line Items] | ||||
Other current assets | $ 17,704 | $ 10,757 | ||
Other Assets | 24,809 | 18,444 | ||
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities | 43,184 | 34,470 | ||
Advanced billings and customer deposits | 5,948 | 4,213 | ||
Deferred income taxes | 57,859 | 43,207 | ||
Other noncurrent liabilities | 30,233 | 19,747 | ||
Retained Earnings | 58,753 | 50,500 | ||
Accumulated other comprehensive income | 4,249 | 7,017 | $ 4,961 | $ 5,334 |
Noncontrolling interest | 9,795 | $ 1,146 | ||
Calculated under Revenue Guidance in Effect before Topic 606 [Member] | ||||
Revenue, Initial Application Period Cumulative Effect Transition [Line Items] | ||||
Other current assets | 14,756 | |||
Other Assets | 22,144 | |||
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities | 43,363 | |||
Advanced billings and customer deposits | 6,012 | |||
Deferred income taxes | 56,485 | |||
Other noncurrent liabilities | 29,937 | |||
Retained Earnings | 54,616 | |||
Accumulated other comprehensive income | 4,258 | |||
Noncontrolling interest | $ 9,737 |
Acquisitions, Dispositions An_3
Acquisitions, Dispositions And Other Adjustments (Time Warner, Otter and AppNexus Acquisitions Narrative) (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Millions | 1 Months Ended | 3 Months Ended | 7 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended | ||||||||||||||||
Aug. 31, 2018 | Jun. 30, 2018 | Dec. 31, 2018 | Sep. 30, 2018 | Jun. 30, 2018 | [1] | Mar. 31, 2018 | [1] | Dec. 31, 2017 | Sep. 30, 2017 | Jun. 30, 2017 | [1] | Mar. 31, 2017 | Dec. 31, 2018 | Dec. 31, 2018 | Dec. 31, 2017 | Dec. 31, 2016 | Jun. 14, 2018 | |||
Business Acquisition [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||||||
Advances, Investments In, Collections, and Payments From Affiliates | $ 1,050 | $ 0 | $ (1) | |||||||||||||||||
Goodwill | $ 146,370 | $ 105,449 | $ 146,370 | 146,370 | 105,449 | 105,207 | ||||||||||||||
Acquisition of business - purchase price (in millions) | 43,309 | (1,123) | 2,959 | |||||||||||||||||
Revenues | 47,993 | [1] | $ 45,739 | $ 38,986 | $ 38,038 | 41,676 | [1],[2] | $ 39,668 | $ 39,837 | $ 39,365 | 170,756 | 160,546 | 163,786 | |||||||
Operating Income (Loss) | 6,160 | [1] | $ 7,269 | $ 6,466 | $ 6,201 | 1,281 | [1],[2] | $ 5,807 | $ 6,526 | $ 6,356 | 26,096 | 19,970 | 23,543 | |||||||
WarnerMedia [Member] | ||||||||||||||||||||
Business Acquisition [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||||||
Acquisition of business - acquisition period | Jun. 14, 2018 | |||||||||||||||||||
Goodwill | 40,698 | 0 | 40,698 | 40,698 | 0 | |||||||||||||||
Xandr [Member] | ||||||||||||||||||||
Business Acquisition [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||||||
Goodwill | 1,403 | $ 0 | 1,403 | $ 1,403 | $ 0 | $ 0 | ||||||||||||||
Time Warner Inc. [Member] | ||||||||||||||||||||
Business Acquisition [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||||||
Acquisition of business - acquisition period | Jun. 14, 2018 | Jun. 14, 2018 | ||||||||||||||||||
Goodwill | 38,566 | 38,566 | $ 38,566 | |||||||||||||||||
Acquisition of business - purchase price (in millions) | $ 79,358 | |||||||||||||||||||
Name of Plaintiff | Department of Justice | |||||||||||||||||||
Actions Taken by Plaintiff | On July 12, 2018, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) appealed the U.S. District Court’s decision permitting the merger. | |||||||||||||||||||
Revenues | 18,209 | |||||||||||||||||||
Operating Income (Loss) | 1,400 | |||||||||||||||||||
Amortization expense | 3,296 | |||||||||||||||||||
Time Warner Inc. [Member] | AT&T Inc [Member] | ||||||||||||||||||||
Business Acquisition [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||||||
Acquisition of business - percentage ownership of combined company held by former shareholders of acquiree | 16.00% | |||||||||||||||||||
Time Warner Inc. [Member] | Cash [Member] | ||||||||||||||||||||
Business Acquisition [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||||||
Acquisition of business - purchase price (in US dollars per share) | $ 53.75 | |||||||||||||||||||
Acquisition of business - purchase price (in millions) | $ 42,100 | |||||||||||||||||||
Time Warner Inc. [Member] | Common Stock [Member] | ||||||||||||||||||||
Business Acquisition [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||||||
Acquisition of business - noncash consideration | 1.437 shares of AT&T stock per share of Time Warner common stock | |||||||||||||||||||
Acquisition of business - purchase price (in millions) | $ 36,599 | |||||||||||||||||||
Stock price per share at period end | $ 32.52 | |||||||||||||||||||
Number of shares issued to acquire entity | 1,125,517,510 | |||||||||||||||||||
Otter Media [Member] | WarnerMedia [Member] | ||||||||||||||||||||
Business Acquisition [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||||||
Acquisition of business - acquisition period | Aug. 7, 2018 | |||||||||||||||||||
Advances, Investments In, Collections, and Payments From Affiliates | $ 1,480 | |||||||||||||||||||
Acquisition of business - Equity Interest in Acquiree Remeasurement Gain | 395 | |||||||||||||||||||
Goodwill | 1,239 | 1,239 | $ 1,239 | |||||||||||||||||
Acquisition of business - purchase price (in millions) | $ 157 | |||||||||||||||||||
AppNexus [Member] | Xandr [Member] | ||||||||||||||||||||
Business Acquisition [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||||||
Acquisition of business - acquisition period | Aug. 15, 2018 | |||||||||||||||||||
Goodwill | $ 1,220 | $ 1,220 | $ 1,220 | |||||||||||||||||
Acquisition of business - purchase price (in millions) | $ 1,432 | |||||||||||||||||||
[1] | Includes actuarial gains and losses on pension and postretirement benefit plans (Note 14). | |||||||||||||||||||
[2] | Includes an asset abandonment charge (Note 7) and the impact of federal corporate income tax reform (Note 13). |
Acquisitions, Dispositions An_4
Acquisitions, Dispositions And Other Adjustments (Other Acquisitions Narrative) (Details) - Spectrum Licenses [Member] $ in Millions | 1 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended | ||||
Apr. 30, 2017USD ($) | Apr. 30, 2017USD ($) | Jul. 31, 2016USD ($) | Dec. 31, 2018USD ($) | Dec. 31, 2017USD ($) | Dec. 31, 2016USD ($) | |
Auction 1000 [Member] | ||||||
Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] | ||||||
Payments to Acquire Intangible Assets | $ (1,438) | $ 2,348 | ||||
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities, Continuing Operations | $ (1,438) | |||||
Acquisition of intangible assets through a group purchase - value/amount of assets acquired | $ 910 | |||||
Assets Acquisition - acquisition period | Apr. 13, 2017 | |||||
Assets Acquisition - number of markets (as shown) | 18 | |||||
Spectrum Swaps [Member] | ||||||
Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] | ||||||
Payments to Acquire Intangible Assets | $ 521 | |||||
Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets, Fair Value Disclosure | $ 2,003 | $ 2,122 | ||||
Gain (Loss) on Disposition of Intangible Assets | $ 181 | $ 714 |
Acquisitions, Dispositions An_5
Acquisitions, Dispositions And Other Adjustments (Dispositions Narrative) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2018 | Dec. 31, 2017 | Dec. 31, 2016 | |
Business Acquisition [Line Items] | |||
Disposition | $ 2,148 | $ 59 | $ 646 |
Property, Plant and Equipment - Net | $ 131,473 | $ 125,222 | $ 124,899 |
Brookfield Infrastructure Partners [Member] | Disposal Group, Disposed of by Sale, Not Discontinued Operations [Member] | |||
Business Acquisition [Line Items] | |||
Disposal Date | Dec. 31, 2018 | ||
Proceeds from assets sold | $ 1,100 | ||
Disposition - pretax gain recognized from sale of subsidiary/investment | 432 | ||
Property, Plant and Equipment - Net | 298 | ||
Goodwill | $ 215 | ||
Dex Media, Inc. [Member] | Disposal Group, Disposed of by Sale, Not Discontinued Operations [Member] | |||
Business Acquisition [Line Items] | |||
Disposal Date | Jun. 30, 2017 | ||
Disposition - pretax gain recognized from sale of subsidiary/investment | $ 36 | ||
Auction 1000 [Member] | Disposal Group, Disposed of by Sale, Not Discontinued Operations [Member] | Spectrum Licenses [Member] | |||
Business Acquisition [Line Items] | |||
Disposal Date | Dec. 31, 2018 |
Acquisitions, Dispositions An_6
Acquisitions, Dispositions And Other Adjustments (Fair Value of Assets Acquired And Liabilities Assumed) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | Dec. 31, 2018 | Dec. 31, 2017 | Dec. 31, 2016 |
Assets acquired | |||
Noncurrent inventories and theatrical film and television production costs | $ 7,713 | $ 0 | |
Goodwill | 146,370 | 105,449 | $ 105,207 |
Liabilities assumed | |||
Debt maturing within one year | 10,255 | $ 38,374 | |
Time Warner Inc. [Member] | |||
Assets acquired | |||
Cash | 1,889 | ||
Accounts Receivable | 9,052 | ||
All other current assets | 2,913 | ||
Noncurrent inventories and theatrical film and television production costs | 5,593 | ||
Property, plant and equipment | 4,769 | ||
Investments and other assets | 9,449 | ||
Goodwill | 38,566 | ||
Total assets acquired | 129,458 | ||
Liabilities assumed | |||
Current liabilities, excluding current portion of long-term debt | 8,303 | ||
Debt maturing within one year | 4,471 | ||
Long-term debt | 18,394 | ||
Other noncurrent liabilities | 18,931 | ||
Total liabilities assumed | 50,099 | ||
Net assets acquired | 79,359 | ||
Noncontrolling interest | (1) | ||
Aggregate value of consideration paid | 79,358 | ||
Time Warner Inc. [Member] | Distribution Networks [Member] | |||
Assets acquired | |||
Intangible assets subject to amortization | 18,040 | ||
Time Warner Inc. [Member] | Released television and film content [Member] | |||
Assets acquired | |||
Intangible assets subject to amortization | 10,806 | ||
Time Warner Inc. [Member] | Trademarks and trade names [Member] | |||
Assets acquired | |||
Intangible assets subject to amortization | 18,081 | ||
Time Warner Inc. [Member] | Other [Member] | |||
Assets acquired | |||
Intangible assets subject to amortization | $ 10,300 |
Acquisitions, Dispositions An_7
Acquisitions, Dispositions And Other Adjustments (Pro-Forma Consolidated Results Of Operations) (Details) - Time Warner Inc. [Member] - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Millions | 12 Months Ended | |
Dec. 31, 2018 | Dec. 31, 2017 | |
Business Acquisition Pro Forma Information [Line Items] | ||
Total operating revenues | $ 183,651 | $ 188,769 |
Net Income Attributable to AT&T | $ 20,814 | $ 31,380 |
Basic Earnings Per Share Attributable to AT&T | $ 2.86 | $ 4.3 |
Diluted Earnings Per Share Attributable to AT&T | $ 2.85 | $ 4.26 |
Property, Plant And Equipment_2
Property, Plant And Equipment (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | 12 Months Ended | |||
Dec. 31, 2018 | Dec. 31, 2017 | Dec. 31, 2016 | ||
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] | ||||
Property, plant and equipment, gross | $ 330,690 | $ 313,499 | ||
Accumulated depreciation and amortization | 199,217 | 188,277 | ||
Property, plant and equipment - net | 131,473 | 125,222 | $ 124,899 | |
Land [Member] | ||||
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] | ||||
Property, plant and equipment, gross | $ 2,714 | $ 1,630 | ||
Land [Member] | Minimum [Member] | ||||
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] | ||||
Property, plant and equipment, useful life | 0 years | 0 years | ||
Land [Member] | Maximum [Member] | ||||
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] | ||||
Property, plant and equipment, useful life | 0 years | 0 years | ||
Buildings and Improvements [Member] | ||||
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] | ||||
Property, plant and equipment, gross | $ 38,013 | $ 36,319 | ||
Buildings and Improvements [Member] | Minimum [Member] | ||||
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] | ||||
Property, plant and equipment, useful life | 2 years | 2 years | ||
Buildings and Improvements [Member] | Maximum [Member] | ||||
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] | ||||
Property, plant and equipment, useful life | 44 years | 44 years | ||
Central Office Equipment [Member] | ||||
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] | ||||
Property, plant and equipment, gross | [1] | $ 95,173 | $ 94,076 | |
Central Office Equipment [Member] | Minimum [Member] | ||||
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] | ||||
Property, plant and equipment, useful life | 3 years | 3 years | ||
Central Office Equipment [Member] | Maximum [Member] | ||||
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] | ||||
Property, plant and equipment, useful life | 10 years | 10 years | ||
Cable, Wiring And Conduit [Member] | ||||
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] | ||||
Property, plant and equipment, gross | $ 73,397 | $ 67,695 | ||
Cable, Wiring And Conduit [Member] | Minimum [Member] | ||||
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] | ||||
Property, plant and equipment, useful life | 15 years | 15 years | ||
Cable, Wiring And Conduit [Member] | Maximum [Member] | ||||
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] | ||||
Property, plant and equipment, useful life | 50 years | 50 years | ||
Satellites [Member] | ||||
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] | ||||
Property, plant and equipment, gross | $ 2,961 | $ 2,967 | ||
Satellites [Member] | Minimum [Member] | ||||
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] | ||||
Property, plant and equipment, useful life | 14 years | 14 years | ||
Satellites [Member] | Maximum [Member] | ||||
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] | ||||
Property, plant and equipment, useful life | 17 years | 17 years | ||
Other Equipment [Member] | ||||
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] | ||||
Property, plant and equipment, gross | $ 93,782 | $ 90,017 | ||
Other Equipment [Member] | Minimum [Member] | ||||
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] | ||||
Property, plant and equipment, useful life | 3 years | 3 years | ||
Other Equipment [Member] | Maximum [Member] | ||||
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] | ||||
Property, plant and equipment, useful life | 20 years | 20 years | ||
Software [Member] | ||||
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] | ||||
Property, plant and equipment, gross | $ 19,124 | $ 16,750 | ||
Software [Member] | Minimum [Member] | ||||
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] | ||||
Property, plant and equipment, useful life | 3 years | 3 years | ||
Software [Member] | Maximum [Member] | ||||
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] | ||||
Property, plant and equipment, useful life | 7 years | 7 years | ||
Under Construction [Member] | ||||
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] | ||||
Property, plant and equipment, gross | $ 5,526 | $ 4,045 | ||
Under Construction [Member] | Minimum [Member] | ||||
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] | ||||
Property, plant and equipment, useful life | 0 years | 0 years | ||
Under Construction [Member] | Maximum [Member] | ||||
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] | ||||
Property, plant and equipment, useful life | 0 years | 0 years | ||
[1] | Includes certain network software. |
Property, Plant And Equipment_3
Property, Plant And Equipment (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | 3 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2017 | Dec. 31, 2018 | Dec. 31, 2017 | Dec. 31, 2016 | |
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] | ||||
Depreciation expense | $ 20,102 | $ 19,761 | $ 20,661 | |
Operating leases, rent expense | 5,296 | 4,953 | 4,482 | |
Assets Disposed of by Method Other than Sale, in Period of Disposition, Gain (Loss) on Disposition | (46) | (2,914) | (361) | |
Operating leases, future minimum payments due, current | 4,361 | |||
Operating leases, future minimum payments, due in two years | 4,046 | |||
Operating leases, future minimum payments, due in three years | 3,558 | |||
Operating leases, future minimum payments, due in four years | 3,253 | |||
Operating leases, future minimum payments, due in five years | 2,836 | |||
Operating leases, future minimum payments, due thereafter | 9,540 | |||
Capital leases, future minimum payments due, current | 154 | |||
Capital leases, future minimum payment, due in two years | 130 | |||
Capital leases, future minimum payment, due in three years | 118 | |||
Capital leases, future minimum payment, due in four years | 124 | |||
Capital leases, future minimum payments, due in five years | 124 | |||
Capital leases, future minimum payment,due thereafter | 1,261 | |||
Copper Network Assets [Member] | ||||
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] | ||||
Assets Disposed of by Method Other than Sale, in Period of Disposition, Gain (Loss) on Disposition | $ 2,883 | |||
Software [Member] | ||||
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] | ||||
Depreciation expense | $ 3,092 | $ 2,810 | $ 2,362 |
Goodwill And Other Intangible_3
Goodwill And Other Intangible Assets (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | 12 Months Ended | |
Dec. 31, 2018 | Dec. 31, 2017 | |
Goodwill And Other Intangible Assets | ||
Estimated amortization expense in 2019 | $ 7,982 | |
Estimated amortization expense in 2020 | 6,886 | |
Estimated amortization expense in 2021 | 5,787 | |
Estimated amortization expense in 2022 | 5,015 | |
Estimated amortization expense in 2023 | 4,337 | |
Trademarks and trade names [Member] | ||
Finite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] | ||
Write-offs of fully amortized finite-lived intangible assets | 2,892 | |
Customer Lists And Relationships [Member] | ||
Finite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] | ||
Write-offs of fully amortized finite-lived intangible assets | $ 2,890 | |
Other Intangible Assets [Member] | ||
Finite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] | ||
Write-offs of fully amortized finite-lived intangible assets | $ 2,273 |
Goodwill And Other Intangible_4
Goodwill And Other Intangible Assets (Summary Of Changes In Carrying Amount Of Goodwill, By Segment) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | 12 Months Ended | |
Dec. 31, 2018 | Dec. 31, 2017 | |
Goodwill [Roll Forward] | ||
Beginning balance | $ 105,449 | $ 105,207 |
Reallocation | 0 | |
Acquisition | 41,678 | 210 |
Dispositions, currency exchange and other | (757) | 32 |
Ending balance | 146,370 | 105,449 |
Business Solutions [Member] | ||
Goodwill [Roll Forward] | ||
Beginning balance | 45,395 | 45,364 |
Reallocation | (45,395) | |
Acquisition | 0 | 0 |
Dispositions, currency exchange and other | 0 | 31 |
Ending balance | 0 | 45,395 |
Consumer Mobility [Member] | ||
Goodwill [Roll Forward] | ||
Beginning balance | 16,540 | 16,526 |
Reallocation | (16,540) | |
Acquisition | 0 | 0 |
Dispositions, currency exchange and other | 0 | 14 |
Ending balance | 0 | 16,540 |
Communications [Member] | ||
Goodwill [Roll Forward] | ||
Beginning balance | 39,280 | 39,053 |
Reallocation | 61,075 | |
Acquisition | 422 | 210 |
Dispositions, currency exchange and other | (226) | 17 |
Ending balance | 100,551 | 39,280 |
Communications [Member] | Mobility [Member] | ||
Goodwill [Roll Forward] | ||
Beginning balance | 0 | 0 |
Reallocation | 44,108 | |
Acquisition | 0 | 0 |
Dispositions, currency exchange and other | 0 | 0 |
Ending balance | 44,108 | 0 |
Communications [Member] | Entertainment Group [Member] | ||
Goodwill [Roll Forward] | ||
Beginning balance | 39,280 | 39,053 |
Reallocation | (860) | |
Acquisition | 0 | 210 |
Dispositions, currency exchange and other | (11) | 17 |
Ending balance | 38,409 | 39,280 |
Communications [Member] | Business Wireline [Member] | ||
Goodwill [Roll Forward] | ||
Beginning balance | 0 | 0 |
Reallocation | 17,827 | |
Acquisition | 422 | 0 |
Dispositions, currency exchange and other | (215) | 0 |
Ending balance | 18,034 | 0 |
WarnerMedia [Member] | ||
Goodwill [Roll Forward] | ||
Beginning balance | 0 | |
Reallocation | 681 | |
Acquisition | 40,036 | 0 |
Dispositions, currency exchange and other | (19) | 0 |
Ending balance | 40,698 | 0 |
Latin America Business Segment [Member] | ||
Goodwill [Roll Forward] | ||
Beginning balance | 4,234 | 4,264 |
Reallocation | (32) | |
Acquisition | 0 | 0 |
Dispositions, currency exchange and other | (484) | (30) |
Ending balance | 3,718 | 4,234 |
Xandr [Member] | ||
Goodwill [Roll Forward] | ||
Beginning balance | 0 | 0 |
Reallocation | 211 | |
Acquisition | 1,220 | 0 |
Dispositions, currency exchange and other | (28) | 0 |
Ending balance | $ 1,403 | $ 0 |
Goodwill And Other Intangible_5
Goodwill And Other Intangible Assets (Schedule Of Amortized Intangible Assets) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | 12 Months Ended | |
Dec. 31, 2018 | Dec. 31, 2017 | |
Customer Lists And Relationships [Member] | ||
Finite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] | ||
Gross carrying amount | $ 20,516 | $ 23,224 |
Accumulated amortization | 12,451 | 12,310 |
Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments | $ (314) | (238) |
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Weighted-Average Useful Life | 9 years 1 month | |
Wireless Acquisitions [Member] | ||
Finite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] | ||
Gross carrying amount | $ 244 | 764 |
Accumulated amortization | 212 | 683 |
Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments | 0 | 0 |
BellSouth Corporation [Member] | ||
Finite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] | ||
Gross carrying amount | 0 | 2,370 |
Accumulated amortization | 0 | 2,370 |
Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments | 0 | 0 |
WarnerMedia [Member] | ||
Finite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] | ||
Gross carrying amount | 73 | 0 |
Accumulated amortization | 15 | 0 |
Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments | 0 | 0 |
AppNexus [Member] | ||
Finite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] | ||
Gross carrying amount | 75 | 0 |
Accumulated amortization | 20 | 0 |
Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments | 0 | 0 |
DIRECTV [Member] | ||
Finite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] | ||
Gross carrying amount | 19,551 | 19,551 |
Accumulated amortization | 11,852 | 8,950 |
Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments | (216) | (141) |
AT&T Corp [Member] | ||
Finite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] | ||
Gross carrying amount | 67 | 33 |
Accumulated amortization | 36 | 29 |
Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments | 0 | 0 |
Mexican wireless [Member] | ||
Finite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] | ||
Gross carrying amount | 506 | 506 |
Accumulated amortization | 316 | 278 |
Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments | (98) | (97) |
Trademarks and trade names [Member] | ||
Finite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] | ||
Gross carrying amount | 18,371 | 2,942 |
Accumulated amortization | 293 | 2,366 |
Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments | $ (7) | (6) |
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Weighted-Average Useful Life | 38 years 7 months | |
Distribution Networks [Member] | ||
Finite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] | ||
Gross carrying amount | $ 18,040 | 0 |
Accumulated amortization | 971 | 0 |
Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments | $ 0 | 0 |
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Weighted-Average Useful Life | 10 years | |
Released Television And Film Content [Member] | ||
Finite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] | ||
Gross carrying amount | $ 10,814 | 0 |
Accumulated amortization | 2,988 | 0 |
Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments | $ 0 | 0 |
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Weighted-Average Useful Life | 10 years 10 months | |
Other [Member] | ||
Finite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] | ||
Gross carrying amount | $ 11,624 | 781 |
Accumulated amortization | 907 | 335 |
Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments | $ (25) | (3) |
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Weighted-Average Useful Life | 18 years 10 months | |
Total | ||
Finite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] | ||
Gross carrying amount | $ 79,365 | 26,947 |
Accumulated amortization | 17,610 | 15,011 |
Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments | $ (346) | $ (247) |
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Weighted-Average Useful Life | 17 years 10 months |
Goodwill And Other Intangible_6
Goodwill And Other Intangible Assets (Schedule Of Indefinite-Life Intangible Assets Not Subject To Amortization) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | Dec. 31, 2018 | Dec. 31, 2017 |
Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] | ||
Gross carrying amount | $ 102,418 | $ 102,587 |
Licenses [Member] | ||
Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] | ||
Gross carrying amount | 84,442 | 84,434 |
Orbital Slots [Member] | ||
Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] | ||
Gross carrying amount | 11,702 | 11,702 |
Trademarks and trade names [Member] | ||
Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] | ||
Gross carrying amount | $ 6,274 | $ 6,451 |
Equity Method Investments (Narr
Equity Method Investments (Narrative) (Details) $ in Millions | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2018USD ($) | |
Time Warner Inc. [Member] | Equity Method Investment [Member] | |
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items] | |
Difference between fair value and proportional book value of investments' net assets | $ 2,871 |
Difference between fair value and proportional book value of investments' net assets, amortization treatment | We attributed $1,642 to amortizing intangibles, which will be amortized into earnings in our “Equity net income (loss) of affiliates” over a weighted-average life of 18.2 years. |
Hudson Yards North Tower Holdings LLC [Member] | |
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items] | |
Company's ownership interest in investee | 50.00% |
HBO Latin America Group [Member] | |
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items] | |
Company's ownership interest in investee | 88.20% |
Hulu [Member] | |
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items] | |
Company's ownership interest in investee | 10.00% |
Central European Media Enterprises Ltd. [Member] | |
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items] | |
Company's ownership interest in investee | 66.60% |
SKY Mexico [Member] | |
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items] | |
Company's ownership interest in investee | 41.30% |
Equity Method Investments (Reco
Equity Method Investments (Reconciliation Of Investments In Equity Affiliates) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2018 | Dec. 31, 2017 | Dec. 31, 2016 | |
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items] | |||
Beginning of year | $ 1,560 | $ 1,674 | |
Additional investments | 237 | 51 | |
Time Warner investments acquired | 4,912 | 0 | |
Equity in net income (loss) of affiliates | (48) | (128) | $ 98 |
Dividends and Distributions received | (243) | (46) | |
Currency translation adjustments | (14) | 22 | |
Other adjustments | 7 | (13) | |
End of year | 6,245 | 1,560 | $ 1,674 |
Otter Media [Member] | |||
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items] | |||
Acquisition of remaining interest in Otter Media | $ (166) | $ 0 |
Inventories and Theatrical Fi_3
Inventories and Theatrical Film and Television Production Costs (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2018 | Dec. 31, 2017 | ||
Inventory Net [Abstract] | |||
Programming costs, less amortization | [1] | $ 4,097 | |
Other inventory, primarily DVD and Blu-ray Discs | 146 | ||
Total inventories | 4,243 | ||
Less: current portion of inventory | (2,420) | ||
Total noncurrent inventories | 1,823 | ||
Theatrical film production costs: | |||
Released, less amortization | [2] | 451 | |
Completed and not released | [2] | 435 | |
In production | [2] | 866 | |
Development and pre-production | [2] | 159 | |
Television production costs: | |||
Released, less amortization | [2] | 965 | |
Completed and not released | [2] | 1,087 | |
In production | [2] | 1,898 | |
Development and pre-production | [2] | 29 | |
Total theatrical film and television production costs | 5,890 | ||
Total noncurrent inventories and theatrical film and television production costs | 7,713 | $ 0 | |
Film and Television Libraries [Member] | |||
Finite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] | |||
Intangible assets subject to amortization, net | $ 7,826 | ||
Percentage of unamortized film costs | 90.00% | ||
Film costs, amortized in next operating cycle | $ 2,298 | ||
[1] | Includes the costs of certain programming rights, primarily sports, for which payments have been made prior to the related rights being received. | ||
[2] | Does not include $7,826 of acquired film and television library intangible assets as of December 31, 2018, which are included in "Other Intangible Assets - Net" on our consolidated balance sheet. |
Debt (Summary Of Long-Term Debt
Debt (Summary Of Long-Term Debt Of AT&T And Its Subsidiaries) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | Dec. 31, 2018 | Dec. 31, 2017 | |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||
Unamortized (discount) premium - net | $ (2,526) | $ (2,968) | |
Unamortized issuance costs | (466) | (537) | |
Total notes and debentures | 171,529 | 162,526 | |
Capitalized leases | 1,911 | 1,818 | |
Total long-term debt and capital lease obligations | 173,440 | 164,344 | |
Current maturities of long-term debt | (7,190) | (38,372) | |
Total long-term debt | 166,250 | 125,972 | |
Notes And Debentures [Member] | |||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||
Total notes and debentures | 174,521 | 166,031 | |
Notes And Debentures Maturing 2018-2022 [Member] | Notes And Debentures [Member] | |||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||
Total notes and debentures | [1] | $ 14,404 | $ 19,514 |
Notes And Debentures Maturing 2018-2022 [Member] | Notes And Debentures [Member] | Minimum [Member] | |||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||
Debt instument - stated percentage rate | 0.49% | 0.49% | |
Notes And Debentures Maturing 2018-2022 [Member] | Notes And Debentures [Member] | Maximum [Member] | |||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||
Debt instument - stated percentage rate | 2.99% | 2.99% | |
Notes And Debentures Maturing 2018-2049 [Member] | Notes And Debentures [Member] | |||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||
Total notes and debentures | [1] | $ 104,291 | $ 93,915 |
Notes And Debentures Maturing 2018-2049 [Member] | Notes And Debentures [Member] | Minimum [Member] | |||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||
Debt instument - stated percentage rate | 3.00% | 3.00% | |
Notes And Debentures Maturing 2018-2049 [Member] | Notes And Debentures [Member] | Maximum [Member] | |||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||
Debt instument - stated percentage rate | 4.99% | 4.99% | |
Notes And Debentures Maturing 2018-2095 [Member] | Notes And Debentures [Member] | |||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||
Total notes and debentures | [1] | $ 37,175 | $ 46,343 |
Notes And Debentures Maturing 2018-2095 [Member] | Notes And Debentures [Member] | Minimum [Member] | |||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||
Debt instument - stated percentage rate | 5.00% | 5.00% | |
Notes And Debentures Maturing 2018-2095 [Member] | Notes And Debentures [Member] | Maximum [Member] | |||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||
Debt instument - stated percentage rate | 6.99% | 6.99% | |
Notes And Debentures Maturing 2018-2097 [Member] | Notes And Debentures [Member] | |||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||
Total notes and debentures | [1] | $ 5,976 | $ 4,579 |
Notes And Debentures Maturing 2018-2097 [Member] | Notes And Debentures [Member] | Minimum [Member] | |||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||
Debt instument - stated percentage rate | 7.00% | 7.00% | |
Notes And Debentures Maturing 2018-2097 [Member] | Notes And Debentures [Member] | Maximum [Member] | |||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||
Debt instument - stated percentage rate | 9.50% | 9.50% | |
Credit agreement borrowings [Member] | Notes And Debentures [Member] | |||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||
Total notes and debentures | $ 12,618 | $ 1,700 | |
Other Debt [Member] | Notes And Debentures [Member] | |||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||
Total notes and debentures | 89 | 0 | |
Fair value of interest rate swaps recorded in debt [Member] | Notes And Debentures [Member] | |||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||
Total notes and debentures | $ (32) | $ (20) | |
[1] | Maturities assume putable debt is redeemed by the holders at the next opportunity. |
Debt (Debt Maturing Within One
Debt (Debt Maturing Within One Year) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | Dec. 31, 2018 | Dec. 31, 2017 | |
Debt Disclosure | |||
Current maturities of long-term debt | $ 7,190 | $ 38,372 | |
Commercial paper | 3,048 | 0 | |
Bank borrowings | [1] | 4 | 2 |
Other | 13 | 0 | |
Total | $ 10,255 | $ 38,374 | |
[1] | Outstanding balance of short-term credit facility of a foreign subsidiary. |
Debt (Long-Term Debt - Schedule
Debt (Long-Term Debt - Scheduled Repayments) (Details) $ in Millions | 12 Months Ended | |
Dec. 31, 2018USD ($) | ||
Debt Disclosure | ||
Long-term debt repayments scheduled for 2019 | $ 7,090 | [1] |
Long-term debt repayments scheduled for 2020 | 12,665 | [1] |
Long-term debt repayments scheduled for 2021 | 13,468 | [1] |
Long-term debt repayments scheduled for 2022 | 12,640 | [1] |
Long-term debt repayments scheduled for 2023 | 14,081 | [1] |
Long-term debt repayments scheduled for the period thereafter | $ 114,609 | [1] |
Weighted average interest rate of long-term debt repayment scheduled for 2019 | 3.00% | |
Weighted average interest rate of long-term debt repayment scheduled for 2020 | 3.30% | |
Weighted average interest rate of long-term debt repayment scheduled for 2021 | 3.70% | |
Weighted average interest rate of long-term debt repayment scheduled for 2022 | 3.00% | |
Weighted average interest rate of long-term debt repayment scheduled for 2023 | 3.50% | |
Weighted average interest rate of long-term debt repayment scheduled for the period thereafter | 4.80% | |
[1] | Debt repayments assume putable debt is redeemed by the holders at the next opportunity. |
Debt (Narrative) (Details)
Debt (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2018 | Jun. 14, 2018 | Dec. 31, 2017 | |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||
Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations | $ 166,250 | $ 125,972 | |
Debt Instrument Weighted Average Interest Rate | 4.40% | 4.40% | |
Debt Instrument - principal/face amount | $ 41,977 | ||
Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount (Premium), Net | $ 2,526 | $ 2,968 | |
Minimum [Member] | |||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||
Debt Instrument Weighted Average Interest Rate | 1.25% | ||
Maximum [Member] | |||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||
Debt Instrument Weighted Average Interest Rate | 6.45% | ||
Time Warner Inc. [Member] | |||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||
Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations | $ 22,865 | ||
Debt Instrument Weighted Average Interest Rate | 4.63% | ||
Debt Instrument - principal/face amount | $ 16,981 | ||
Carrying amount of notes and debentures | 17,107 | ||
Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount (Premium), Net | $ 546 | ||
Time Warner Inc. [Member] | Minimum [Member] | |||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage | 1.25% | ||
Debt instruments - maturity date | Dec. 31, 2018 | ||
Time Warner Inc. [Member] | Maximum [Member] | |||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage | 9.15% | ||
Debt instruments - maturity date | Dec. 31, 2045 | ||
Debt Issued in Foreign Markets [Member] | |||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||
Debt Instrument - principal/face amount | $ 41,356 | $ 37,621 | |
Annual Put Reset Securities [Member] | |||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||
Debt instruments - maturity date | Apr. 30, 2021 | ||
Debt Instrument - principal/face amount | $ 1,000 | ||
Zero Coupon [Member] | |||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||
Debt instruments - maturity date | May 31, 2022 | ||
Debt Instrument - principal/face amount | $ 500 | ||
Debt instrument - redemption amount | $ 592 |
Debt (Financing Activities) (Na
Debt (Financing Activities) (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2018 | Dec. 31, 2017 | Dec. 31, 2016 | |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||
Proceeds from Issuance of Long-term Debt | $ 41,875 | $ 48,793 | $ 10,140 |
Debt Instrument - principal/face amount | $ 41,977 | ||
Debt Instrument Weighted Average Maturity Period | 5 years | ||
Debt Instrument Weighted Average Interest Rate | 4.40% | 4.40% | |
Debt Instrument - debt redeemed | $ 52,643 | ||
Minimum [Member] | |||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||
Debt Instrument Weighted Average Interest Rate | 1.25% | ||
Maximum [Member] | |||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||
Debt Instrument Weighted Average Interest Rate | 6.45% | ||
Weighted Average [Member] | |||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||
Debt Instrument Weighted Average Interest Rate | 3.40% | ||
Debentures Subject to Mandatory Redemption [Member] | |||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||
Debt Instrument - debt redeemed | $ 21,236 |
Debt (Credit Facilities) (Narra
Debt (Credit Facilities) (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | 1 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended | ||||||
Jan. 31, 2019 | Dec. 31, 2018 | Dec. 31, 2017 | Dec. 31, 2016 | Nov. 20, 2018 | Feb. 02, 2018 | Sep. 29, 2017 | Nov. 15, 2016 | |
Revolving Credit Facility [Member] | ||||||||
Line Of Credit Facility [Line Items] | ||||||||
Credit agreement - maximum borrowing capacity | $ 15,000 | |||||||
Credit agreement - Term of Loan | 5 years | |||||||
Credit agreement - advances outstanding | $ 0 | |||||||
Line of Credit Facility, Covenant Terms | Each of our credit and loan agreements contains covenants that are customary for an issuer with an investment grade senior debt credit rating, as well as a net debt-to-EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization, and other modifications described in each agreement) financial ratio covenant requiring AT&T to maintain, as of the last day of each fiscal quarter, a ratio of not more than 3.5-to-1. The events of default are customary for agreements of this type and such events would result in the acceleration of, or would permit the lenders to accelerate, as applicable, required payments and would increase each agreement’s relevant Applicable Margin by 2.00% per annum. | |||||||
Revolving Credit Facility [Member] | Additional Margin Upon Default [Member] | ||||||||
Line Of Credit Facility [Line Items] | ||||||||
Credit agreement - basis spread of variable rate | 2.00% | |||||||
Amended and Restated Credit Agreement [Member] | ||||||||
Line Of Credit Facility [Line Items] | ||||||||
Credit agreement - maximum borrowing capacity | $ 7,500 | |||||||
Credit agreement - initiation date | Dec. 31, 2018 | |||||||
Credit agreement - maturity date | Dec. 11, 2021 | |||||||
Credit agreement - Term of Loan | 5 years | |||||||
Credit agreement - advances outstanding | $ 0 | |||||||
Line of Credit Facility, Covenant Terms | Each of our credit and loan agreements contains covenants that are customary for an issuer with an investment grade senior debt credit rating, as well as a net debt-to-EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization, and other modifications described in each agreement) financial ratio covenant requiring AT&T to maintain, as of the last day of each fiscal quarter, a ratio of not more than 3.5-to-1. The events of default are customary for agreements of this type and such events would result in the acceleration of, or would permit the lenders to accelerate, as applicable, required payments and would increase each agreement’s relevant Applicable Margin by 2.00% per annum. | |||||||
Amended and Restated Credit Agreement [Member] | Additional Margin Upon Default [Member] | ||||||||
Line Of Credit Facility [Line Items] | ||||||||
Credit agreement - basis spread of variable rate | 2.00% | |||||||
Five Year Credit Agreement [Member] | ||||||||
Line Of Credit Facility [Line Items] | ||||||||
Credit agreement - maximum borrowing capacity | $ 7,500 | |||||||
Credit agreement - initiation date | Dec. 31, 2018 | |||||||
Credit agreement - maturity date | Dec. 11, 2023 | |||||||
Credit agreement - Term of Loan | 5 years | |||||||
Credit agreement - advances outstanding | $ 0 | |||||||
Line of Credit Facility, Covenant Terms | Each of our credit and loan agreements contains covenants that are customary for an issuer with an investment grade senior debt credit rating, as well as a net debt-to-EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization, and other modifications described in each agreement) financial ratio covenant requiring AT&T to maintain, as of the last day of each fiscal quarter, a ratio of not more than 3.5-to-1. The events of default are customary for agreements of this type and such events would result in the acceleration of, or would permit the lenders to accelerate, as applicable, required payments and would increase each agreement’s relevant Applicable Margin by 2.00% per annum. | |||||||
Five Year Credit Agreement [Member] | Additional Margin Upon Default [Member] | ||||||||
Line Of Credit Facility [Line Items] | ||||||||
Credit agreement - basis spread of variable rate | 2.00% | |||||||
Term Loan Credit Agreement [Member] | Syndicate of 20 Lenders [Member] | ||||||||
Line Of Credit Facility [Line Items] | ||||||||
Credit agreement - maximum borrowing capacity | $ 16,175 | |||||||
Credit agreement - initiation date | Feb. 2, 2018 | |||||||
Credit agreement - maturity date | Dec. 31, 2018 | |||||||
Credit agreement - maximum amount outstanding during period | $ 16,175 | |||||||
Credit agreement - advances outstanding | $ 2,625 | |||||||
Line of Credit Facility, Covenant Terms | Each of our credit and loan agreements contains covenants that are customary for an issuer with an investment grade senior debt credit rating, as well as a net debt-to-EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization, and other modifications described in each agreement) financial ratio covenant requiring AT&T to maintain, as of the last day of each fiscal quarter, a ratio of not more than 3.5-to-1. The events of default are customary for agreements of this type and such events would result in the acceleration of, or would permit the lenders to accelerate, as applicable, required payments and would increase each agreement’s relevant Applicable Margin by 2.00% per annum. | |||||||
Term Loan Credit Agreement [Member] | Syndicate of 20 Lenders [Member] | Additional Margin Upon Default [Member] | ||||||||
Line Of Credit Facility [Line Items] | ||||||||
Credit agreement - basis spread of variable rate | 2.00% | |||||||
Syndicated Credit Agreement [Member] | Citibank N.A. [Member] | Subsequent Event [Member] | ||||||||
Line Of Credit Facility [Line Items] | ||||||||
Credit agreement - maximum borrowing capacity | $ 2,850 | |||||||
Credit agreement - initiation date | Jan. 31, 2019 | |||||||
Credit agreement - Term of Loan | 11 months | |||||||
Credit agreement - maximum amount outstanding during period | $ 2,850 | |||||||
Credit agreement - advances outstanding | $ 2,850 | |||||||
Line of Credit Facility, Covenant Terms | Each of our credit and loan agreements contains covenants that are customary for an issuer with an investment grade senior debt credit rating, as well as a net debt-to-EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization, and other modifications described in each agreement) financial ratio covenant requiring AT&T to maintain, as of the last day of each fiscal quarter, a ratio of not more than 3.5-to-1. The events of default are customary for agreements of this type and such events would result in the acceleration of, or would permit the lenders to accelerate, as applicable, required payments and would increase each agreement’s relevant Applicable Margin by 2.00% per annum. | |||||||
Syndicated Credit Agreement [Member] | Citibank N.A. [Member] | Additional Margin Upon Default [Member] | Subsequent Event [Member] | ||||||||
Line Of Credit Facility [Line Items] | ||||||||
Credit agreement - basis spread of variable rate | 2.00% | |||||||
November 2018 Term Loan [Member] | Bank of America, N.A. [Member] | ||||||||
Line Of Credit Facility [Line Items] | ||||||||
Credit agreement - maximum borrowing capacity | $ 3,550 | |||||||
Credit agreement - initiation date | Nov. 20, 2018 | |||||||
Credit agreement - Term of Loan | 4 years 6 months | |||||||
Credit agreement - maximum amount outstanding during period | $ 3,550 | |||||||
Credit agreement - advances outstanding | $ 3,550 | |||||||
Line of Credit Facility, Covenant Terms | Each of our credit and loan agreements contains covenants that are customary for an issuer with an investment grade senior debt credit rating, as well as a net debt-to-EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization, and other modifications described in each agreement) financial ratio covenant requiring AT&T to maintain, as of the last day of each fiscal quarter, a ratio of not more than 3.5-to-1. The events of default are customary for agreements of this type and such events would result in the acceleration of, or would permit the lenders to accelerate, as applicable, required payments and would increase each agreement’s relevant Applicable Margin by 2.00% per annum. | |||||||
November 2018 Term Loan [Member] | Bank of America, N.A. [Member] | Additional Margin Upon Default [Member] | ||||||||
Line Of Credit Facility [Line Items] | ||||||||
Credit agreement - basis spread of variable rate | 2.00% | |||||||
Acquisition Term Loan [Member] | Syndicate of 20 Lenders [Member] | ||||||||
Line Of Credit Facility [Line Items] | ||||||||
Credit agreement - maximum borrowing capacity | $ 10,000 | |||||||
Credit agreement - initiation date | Nov. 15, 2016 | |||||||
Credit agreement - advances outstanding | $ 0 | |||||||
Line of Credit Facility, Covenant Terms | Each of our credit and loan agreements contains covenants that are customary for an issuer with an investment grade senior debt credit rating, as well as a net debt-to-EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization, and other modifications described in each agreement) financial ratio covenant requiring AT&T to maintain, as of the last day of each fiscal quarter, a ratio of not more than 3.5-to-1. The events of default are customary for agreements of this type and such events would result in the acceleration of, or would permit the lenders to accelerate, as applicable, required payments and would increase each agreement’s relevant Applicable Margin by 2.00% per annum. | |||||||
Acquisition Term Loan [Member] | Syndicate of 20 Lenders [Member] | Additional Margin Upon Default [Member] | ||||||||
Line Of Credit Facility [Line Items] | ||||||||
Credit agreement - basis spread of variable rate | 2.00% | |||||||
Foreign Line of Credit [Member] | The Bank of Nova Scotia [Member] | ||||||||
Line Of Credit Facility [Line Items] | ||||||||
Credit agreement - advances outstanding | $ 2,250 | |||||||
Nova Scotia Credit Agreement [Member] | The Bank of Nova Scotia [Member] | ||||||||
Line Of Credit Facility [Line Items] | ||||||||
Credit agreement - maximum borrowing capacity | $ 2,250 | |||||||
Credit agreement - initiation date | Sep. 29, 2017 | |||||||
Credit agreement - maximum amount outstanding during period | 2,250 | |||||||
Credit agreement - advances outstanding | $ 2,250 | |||||||
Line of Credit Facility, Covenant Terms | Each of our credit and loan agreements contains covenants that are customary for an issuer with an investment grade senior debt credit rating, as well as a net debt-to-EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization, and other modifications described in each agreement) financial ratio covenant requiring AT&T to maintain, as of the last day of each fiscal quarter, a ratio of not more than 3.5-to-1. The events of default are customary for agreements of this type and such events would result in the acceleration of, or would permit the lenders to accelerate, as applicable, required payments and would increase each agreement’s relevant Applicable Margin by 2.00% per annum. | |||||||
Nova Scotia Credit Agreement [Member] | The Bank of Nova Scotia [Member] | Additional Margin Upon Default [Member] | ||||||||
Line Of Credit Facility [Line Items] | ||||||||
Credit agreement - basis spread of variable rate | 2.00% | |||||||
Three Year Term Loan [Member] | The Bank of Nova Scotia [Member] | ||||||||
Line Of Credit Facility [Line Items] | ||||||||
Credit agreement - maximum borrowing capacity | 750 | |||||||
Credit agreement - initiation date | Sep. 29, 2017 | |||||||
Credit agreement - Term of Loan | 3 years | |||||||
Credit agreement - maximum amount outstanding during period | $ 750 | |||||||
Credit agreement - advances outstanding | $ 750 | |||||||
Line of Credit Facility, Covenant Terms | Each of our credit and loan agreements contains covenants that are customary for an issuer with an investment grade senior debt credit rating, as well as a net debt-to-EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization, and other modifications described in each agreement) financial ratio covenant requiring AT&T to maintain, as of the last day of each fiscal quarter, a ratio of not more than 3.5-to-1. The events of default are customary for agreements of this type and such events would result in the acceleration of, or would permit the lenders to accelerate, as applicable, required payments and would increase each agreement’s relevant Applicable Margin by 2.00% per annum. | |||||||
Three Year Term Loan [Member] | The Bank of Nova Scotia [Member] | Additional Margin Upon Default [Member] | ||||||||
Line Of Credit Facility [Line Items] | ||||||||
Credit agreement - basis spread of variable rate | 2.00% | |||||||
Four Year Term Loan [Member] | The Bank of Nova Scotia [Member] | ||||||||
Line Of Credit Facility [Line Items] | ||||||||
Credit agreement - maximum borrowing capacity | 750 | |||||||
Credit agreement - initiation date | Sep. 29, 2017 | |||||||
Credit agreement - Term of Loan | 4 years | |||||||
Credit agreement - maximum amount outstanding during period | $ 750 | |||||||
Credit agreement - advances outstanding | $ 750 | |||||||
Line of Credit Facility, Covenant Terms | Each of our credit and loan agreements contains covenants that are customary for an issuer with an investment grade senior debt credit rating, as well as a net debt-to-EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization, and other modifications described in each agreement) financial ratio covenant requiring AT&T to maintain, as of the last day of each fiscal quarter, a ratio of not more than 3.5-to-1. The events of default are customary for agreements of this type and such events would result in the acceleration of, or would permit the lenders to accelerate, as applicable, required payments and would increase each agreement’s relevant Applicable Margin by 2.00% per annum. | |||||||
Four Year Term Loan [Member] | The Bank of Nova Scotia [Member] | Additional Margin Upon Default [Member] | ||||||||
Line Of Credit Facility [Line Items] | ||||||||
Credit agreement - basis spread of variable rate | 2.00% | |||||||
Five Year Term Loan [Member] | The Bank of Nova Scotia [Member] | ||||||||
Line Of Credit Facility [Line Items] | ||||||||
Credit agreement - maximum borrowing capacity | $ 750 | |||||||
Credit agreement - initiation date | Sep. 29, 2017 | |||||||
Credit agreement - Term of Loan | 5 years | |||||||
Credit agreement - maximum amount outstanding during period | $ 750 | |||||||
Credit agreement - advances outstanding | $ 750 | |||||||
Line of Credit Facility, Covenant Terms | Each of our credit and loan agreements contains covenants that are customary for an issuer with an investment grade senior debt credit rating, as well as a net debt-to-EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization, and other modifications described in each agreement) financial ratio covenant requiring AT&T to maintain, as of the last day of each fiscal quarter, a ratio of not more than 3.5-to-1. The events of default are customary for agreements of this type and such events would result in the acceleration of, or would permit the lenders to accelerate, as applicable, required payments and would increase each agreement’s relevant Applicable Margin by 2.00% per annum. | |||||||
Five Year Term Loan [Member] | The Bank of Nova Scotia [Member] | Additional Margin Upon Default [Member] | ||||||||
Line Of Credit Facility [Line Items] | ||||||||
Credit agreement - basis spread of variable rate | 2.00% |
Debt (Credit Agreement) (Narrat
Debt (Credit Agreement) (Narrative) (Details) | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2018 | |
Amended and Restated Credit Agreement [Member] | |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |
Credit agreement - term loan description | Each of the Credit Agreements provides that we and lenders representing more than 50% of the facility amount may agree to extend their commitments under such Credit Agreement for two one-year periods beyond the initial termination date. We have the right to terminate, in whole or in part, amounts committed by the lenders under each of the Credit Agreements in excess of any outstanding advances; however, any such terminated commitments may not be reinstated. |
Credit agreement - base rate | Advances under these agreements would bear interest, at AT&T's option, either: • at a variable annual rate equal to: (1) the highest of (but not less than zero) (a) the rate of interest announced publicly by Citibank in New York, New York, from time to time, as Citibank’s base rate, (b) 0.5% per annum above the federal funds rate, and (c) the London interbank offered rate (or the successor thereto) (“LIBOR”) applicable to dollars for a period of one month plus 1.00%, plus (2) an applicable margin, as set forth in the applicable Credit Agreement (the “Applicable Margin for Base Advances”); or • at a rate equal to: (i) LIBOR (adjusted upwards to reflect any bank reserve costs) for a period of one, two, three or six months, as applicable, plus (ii) an applicable margin, as set forth in the applicable Credit Agreement (the “Applicable Margin for Eurodollar Rate Advances”). |
Amended and Restated Credit Agreement [Member] | High Credit Rating [Member] | |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |
Credit agreement - commitment fee percentage | 0.07% |
Amended and Restated Credit Agreement [Member] | Moderate Credit Rating [Member] | |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |
Credit agreement - commitment fee percentage | 0.08% |
Amended and Restated Credit Agreement [Member] | Low Credit Rating [Member] | |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |
Credit agreement - commitment fee percentage | 0.10% |
Amended and Restated Credit Agreement [Member] | Very Low Credit Rating [Member] | |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |
Credit agreement - commitment fee percentage | 0.125% |
Five Year Credit Agreement [Member] | |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |
Credit agreement - term loan description | Each of the Credit Agreements provides that we and lenders representing more than 50% of the facility amount may agree to extend their commitments under such Credit Agreement for two one-year periods beyond the initial termination date. We have the right to terminate, in whole or in part, amounts committed by the lenders under each of the Credit Agreements in excess of any outstanding advances; however, any such terminated commitments may not be reinstated. |
Credit agreement - base rate | Advances under these agreements would bear interest, at AT&T's option, either: • at a variable annual rate equal to: (1) the highest of (but not less than zero) (a) the rate of interest announced publicly by Citibank in New York, New York, from time to time, as Citibank’s base rate, (b) 0.5% per annum above the federal funds rate, and (c) the London interbank offered rate (or the successor thereto) (“LIBOR”) applicable to dollars for a period of one month plus 1.00%, plus (2) an applicable margin, as set forth in the applicable Credit Agreement (the “Applicable Margin for Base Advances”); or • at a rate equal to: (i) LIBOR (adjusted upwards to reflect any bank reserve costs) for a period of one, two, three or six months, as applicable, plus (ii) an applicable margin, as set forth in the applicable Credit Agreement (the “Applicable Margin for Eurodollar Rate Advances”). |
Five Year Credit Agreement [Member] | High Credit Rating [Member] | |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |
Credit agreement - commitment fee percentage | 0.07% |
Five Year Credit Agreement [Member] | Moderate Credit Rating [Member] | |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |
Credit agreement - commitment fee percentage | 0.08% |
Five Year Credit Agreement [Member] | Low Credit Rating [Member] | |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |
Credit agreement - commitment fee percentage | 0.10% |
Five Year Credit Agreement [Member] | Very Low Credit Rating [Member] | |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |
Credit agreement - commitment fee percentage | 0.125% |
Debt (November 2018 Term Loan A
Debt (November 2018 Term Loan Agreement) (Narrative) (Details) - November 2018 Term Loan [Member] - Bank of America, N.A. [Member] | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2018 | |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |
Credit agreement - base rate | Advances would bear interest, at AT&T’s option, either: • at a variable annual rate equal to: (1) the highest of (but not less than zero) (a) the prime rate quoted by The Wall Street Journal, (b) 0.5% per annum above the federal funds rate, and (c) the London interbank offered rate (“LIBOR”) applicable to dollars for a period of one month plus 1.00%, plus (2) an applicable margin, as set forth in the November 2018 Term Loan (the “Applicable Margin for Base Advances”); or • at a rate equal to: (i) LIBOR (adjusted upwards to reflect any bank reserve costs) for a period of one, two, three or six months, as applicable, plus (ii) an applicable margin, as set forth in the November 2018 Term Loan (the “Applicable Margin for Eurodollar Rate Advances”). |
Credit agreement - term loan description | Repayment of all advances with respect to the November 2018 Term Loan will be subject to amortization commencing two years and nine months after the date on which such advances are made, with 25% of the aggregate principal amount thereof being payable prior to the date that is four years and six months after the date on which such advances are made, and all remaining principal amount due and payable on the date that is four years and six months after the date on which such advances are made. |
Additional Margin Upon Default [Member] | |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |
Credit agreement - basis spread of variable rate | 2.00% |
Additional Base Spread [Member] | Moderate Credit Rating [Member] | |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |
Credit agreement - basis spread of variable rate | 0.00% |
Base Rate [Member] | High Credit Rating [Member] | |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |
Credit agreement - basis spread of variable rate | 0.00% |
Base Rate [Member] | Low Credit Rating [Member] | |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |
Credit agreement - basis spread of variable rate | 0.125% |
Base Rate [Member] | Additional Margin Upon Default [Member] | High Credit Rating [Member] | |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |
Credit agreement - basis spread of variable rate | 2.00% |
Base Rate [Member] | Additional Margin Upon Default [Member] | Moderate Credit Rating [Member] | |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |
Credit agreement - basis spread of variable rate | 2.00% |
Base Rate [Member] | Additional Margin Upon Default [Member] | Low Credit Rating [Member] | |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |
Credit agreement - basis spread of variable rate | 2.00% |
Eurodollar Rate Advance [Member] | High Credit Rating [Member] | |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |
Credit agreement - basis spread of variable rate | 0.875% |
Eurodollar Rate Advance [Member] | Moderate Credit Rating [Member] | |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |
Credit agreement - basis spread of variable rate | 1.00% |
Eurodollar Rate Advance [Member] | Low Credit Rating [Member] | |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |
Credit agreement - basis spread of variable rate | 1.125% |
Eurodollar Rate Advance [Member] | Additional Margin Upon Default [Member] | High Credit Rating [Member] | |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |
Credit agreement - basis spread of variable rate | 2.00% |
Eurodollar Rate Advance [Member] | Additional Margin Upon Default [Member] | Moderate Credit Rating [Member] | |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |
Credit agreement - basis spread of variable rate | 2.00% |
Eurodollar Rate Advance [Member] | Additional Margin Upon Default [Member] | Low Credit Rating [Member] | |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |
Credit agreement - basis spread of variable rate | 2.00% |
Debt (Nova Scotia Credit Agree
Debt (Nova Scotia Credit Agreement) (Narrative) (Details) - The Bank of Nova Scotia [Member] | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2018 | |
Nova Scotia Credit Agreement [Member] | |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |
Credit agreement - base rate | Advances under this agreement would bear interest, at AT&T's option, either: • at a variable annual rate equal to (1) the highest of: (a) the base rate of Scotiabank, (b) 0.50% per annum above the Federal funds rate, and (c) the ICE Benchmark Administration Limited Settlement Rate applicable to U.S. dollars for a period of one month plus 1.00% per annum, plus (2) an applicable margin (as set forth in the Nova Scotia Credit Agreement); or • at a rate equal to: (i) LIBOR for a period of three or six months, as applicable, plus (ii) an applicable margin (as set forth in the Nova Scotia Credit Agreement). |
Three Year Term Loan [Member] | |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |
Credit agreement - base rate | Advances under this agreement would bear interest, at AT&T's option, either: • at a variable annual rate equal to (1) the highest of: (a) the base rate of Scotiabank, (b) 0.50% per annum above the Federal funds rate, and (c) the ICE Benchmark Administration Limited Settlement Rate applicable to U.S. dollars for a period of one month plus 1.00% per annum, plus (2) an applicable margin (as set forth in the Nova Scotia Credit Agreement); or • at a rate equal to: (i) LIBOR for a period of three or six months, as applicable, plus (ii) an applicable margin (as set forth in the Nova Scotia Credit Agreement). |
Four Year Term Loan [Member] | |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |
Credit agreement - base rate | Advances under this agreement would bear interest, at AT&T's option, either: • at a variable annual rate equal to (1) the highest of: (a) the base rate of Scotiabank, (b) 0.50% per annum above the Federal funds rate, and (c) the ICE Benchmark Administration Limited Settlement Rate applicable to U.S. dollars for a period of one month plus 1.00% per annum, plus (2) an applicable margin (as set forth in the Nova Scotia Credit Agreement); or • at a rate equal to: (i) LIBOR for a period of three or six months, as applicable, plus (ii) an applicable margin (as set forth in the Nova Scotia Credit Agreement). |
Five Year Term Loan [Member] | |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |
Credit agreement - base rate | Advances under this agreement would bear interest, at AT&T's option, either: • at a variable annual rate equal to (1) the highest of: (a) the base rate of Scotiabank, (b) 0.50% per annum above the Federal funds rate, and (c) the ICE Benchmark Administration Limited Settlement Rate applicable to U.S. dollars for a period of one month plus 1.00% per annum, plus (2) an applicable margin (as set forth in the Nova Scotia Credit Agreement); or • at a rate equal to: (i) LIBOR for a period of three or six months, as applicable, plus (ii) an applicable margin (as set forth in the Nova Scotia Credit Agreement). |
Debt (Other Term Loan Agreement
Debt (Other Term Loan Agreements) (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | 1 Months Ended | 2 Months Ended | 3 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended | |||
Jan. 31, 2019 | Feb. 20, 2019 | Mar. 27, 2019 | Dec. 31, 2018 | Feb. 19, 2019 | Feb. 02, 2018 | Nov. 15, 2016 | |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||||||
Debt Instrument - principal/face amount | $ 41,977 | ||||||
Debt Instrument - debt redeemed | 52,643 | ||||||
Line of Credit [Member] | Global Notes Due 2029 [Member] | Subsequent Event [Member] | |||||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||||||
Debt Instrument - principal/face amount | $ 3,000 | ||||||
Debt instument - stated percentage rate | 4.35% | ||||||
Line of Credit [Member] | Global Notes Due 2039 [Member] | Subsequent Event [Member] | |||||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||||||
Debt Instrument - principal/face amount | $ 2,000 | ||||||
Debt instument - stated percentage rate | 4.85% | ||||||
Line of Credit [Member] | AT&T Inc. Senior Notes [Member] | Subsequent Event [Member] | |||||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||||||
Debt Instrument - debt redeemed | $ 4,100 | ||||||
Acquisition Term Loan [Member] | Syndicate Of Twenty Lenders [Member] | |||||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||||||
Credit agreement - maximum borrowing capacity | $ 10,000 | ||||||
Credit agreement - advances outstanding | $ 0 | ||||||
Acquisition Term Loan [Member] | Syndicate Of Twenty Lenders [Member] | Additional Margin Upon Default [Member] | |||||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||||||
Credit agreement - basis spread of variable rate | 2.00% | ||||||
Tranche A Commitment [Member] | Syndicate Of Twenty Lenders [Member] | |||||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||||||
Credit agreement - maximum borrowing capacity | $ 8,087 | ||||||
Credit agreement - maximum amount outstanding during period | $ 8,087 | ||||||
Credit agreement - advances outstanding | $ 2,625 | ||||||
Credit agreement - base rate | Advances bear interest, at AT&T’s option, either: • at a variable annual rate equal to: (1) the highest of (a) the prime rate of JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., (b) 0.5% per annum above the federal funds rate, and (c) the LIBOR rate applicable to dollars for a period of one month plus 1.00%, plus (2) an applicable margin, as set forth in the Acquisition Term Loan (the “Applicable Margin for Base Advances (Term Loan)”); or • at a rate equal to: (i) LIBOR (adjusted upwards to reflect any bank reserve costs) for a period of one, two, three or six months, as applicable, plus (ii) an applicable margin, as set forth in the Acquisition Term Loan (the “Applicable Margin for Eurodollar Rate Advances (Term Loan)”). | ||||||
Credit agreement - term loan description | Repayment of all advances with respect to Tranche A must be made no later than two years and six months after the date on which such advances are made. | ||||||
Tranche A Commitment [Member] | Syndicate Of Twenty Lenders [Member] | Subsequent Event [Member] | |||||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||||||
Debt Instrument - debt redeemed | $ 2,625 | ||||||
Credit agreement - advances outstanding | $ 0 | ||||||
Tranche A Commitment [Member] | Syndicate Of Twenty Lenders [Member] | High Credit Rating [Member] | |||||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||||||
Credit agreement - basis spread of variable rate | 0.00% | ||||||
Tranche A Commitment [Member] | Syndicate Of Twenty Lenders [Member] | Moderate Credit Rating [Member] | |||||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||||||
Credit agreement - basis spread of variable rate | 0.125% | ||||||
Tranche A Commitment [Member] | Syndicate Of Twenty Lenders [Member] | Low Credit Rating [Member] | |||||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||||||
Credit agreement - basis spread of variable rate | 0.25% | ||||||
Tranche A Commitment [Member] | Syndicate Of Twenty Lenders [Member] | Additional Margin Upon Default [Member] | |||||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||||||
Credit agreement - basis spread of variable rate | 2.00% | ||||||
Tranche A Commitment [Member] | Syndicate Of Twenty Lenders [Member] | Base Rate [Member] | Additional Margin Upon Default [Member] | High Credit Rating [Member] | |||||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||||||
Credit agreement - basis spread of variable rate | 2.00% | ||||||
Tranche A Commitment [Member] | Syndicate Of Twenty Lenders [Member] | Base Rate [Member] | Additional Margin Upon Default [Member] | Moderate Credit Rating [Member] | |||||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||||||
Credit agreement - basis spread of variable rate | 2.00% | ||||||
Tranche A Commitment [Member] | Syndicate Of Twenty Lenders [Member] | Base Rate [Member] | Additional Margin Upon Default [Member] | Low Credit Rating [Member] | |||||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||||||
Credit agreement - basis spread of variable rate | 2.00% | ||||||
Tranche A Commitment [Member] | Syndicate Of Twenty Lenders [Member] | Eurodollar Rate Advance [Member] | High Credit Rating [Member] | |||||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||||||
Credit agreement - basis spread of variable rate | 1.00% | ||||||
Tranche A Commitment [Member] | Syndicate Of Twenty Lenders [Member] | Eurodollar Rate Advance [Member] | Moderate Credit Rating [Member] | |||||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||||||
Credit agreement - basis spread of variable rate | 1.125% | ||||||
Tranche A Commitment [Member] | Syndicate Of Twenty Lenders [Member] | Eurodollar Rate Advance [Member] | Low Credit Rating [Member] | |||||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||||||
Credit agreement - basis spread of variable rate | 1.25% | ||||||
Tranche A Commitment [Member] | Syndicate Of Twenty Lenders [Member] | Eurodollar Rate Advance [Member] | Additional Margin Upon Default [Member] | High Credit Rating [Member] | |||||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||||||
Credit agreement - basis spread of variable rate | 2.00% | ||||||
Tranche A Commitment [Member] | Syndicate Of Twenty Lenders [Member] | Eurodollar Rate Advance [Member] | Additional Margin Upon Default [Member] | Moderate Credit Rating [Member] | |||||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||||||
Credit agreement - basis spread of variable rate | 2.00% | ||||||
Tranche A Commitment [Member] | Syndicate Of Twenty Lenders [Member] | Eurodollar Rate Advance [Member] | Additional Margin Upon Default [Member] | Low Credit Rating [Member] | |||||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||||||
Credit agreement - basis spread of variable rate | 2.00% | ||||||
Tranche B Commitment [Member] | Syndicate Of Twenty Lenders [Member] | |||||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||||||
Credit agreement - maximum borrowing capacity | $ 8,087 | ||||||
Credit agreement - maximum amount outstanding during period | $ 8,087 | ||||||
Credit agreement - advances outstanding | $ 0 | ||||||
Credit agreement - base rate | Advances bear interest, at AT&T’s option, either: • at a variable annual rate equal to: (1) the highest of (a) the prime rate of JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., (b) 0.5% per annum above the federal funds rate, and (c) the LIBOR rate applicable to dollars for a period of one month plus 1.00%, plus (2) an applicable margin, as set forth in the Acquisition Term Loan (the “Applicable Margin for Base Advances (Term Loan)”); or • at a rate equal to: (i) LIBOR (adjusted upwards to reflect any bank reserve costs) for a period of one, two, three or six months, as applicable, plus (ii) an applicable margin, as set forth in the Acquisition Term Loan (the “Applicable Margin for Eurodollar Rate Advances (Term Loan)”). | ||||||
Tranche B Commitment [Member] | Syndicate Of Twenty Lenders [Member] | High Credit Rating [Member] | |||||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||||||
Credit agreement - basis spread of variable rate | 0.125% | ||||||
Tranche B Commitment [Member] | Syndicate Of Twenty Lenders [Member] | Moderate Credit Rating [Member] | |||||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||||||
Credit agreement - basis spread of variable rate | 0.25% | ||||||
Tranche B Commitment [Member] | Syndicate Of Twenty Lenders [Member] | Low Credit Rating [Member] | |||||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||||||
Credit agreement - basis spread of variable rate | 0.375% | ||||||
Tranche B Commitment [Member] | Syndicate Of Twenty Lenders [Member] | Additional Margin Upon Default [Member] | |||||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||||||
Credit agreement - basis spread of variable rate | 2.00% | ||||||
Tranche B Commitment [Member] | Syndicate Of Twenty Lenders [Member] | Base Rate [Member] | Additional Margin Upon Default [Member] | High Credit Rating [Member] | |||||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||||||
Credit agreement - basis spread of variable rate | 2.00% | ||||||
Tranche B Commitment [Member] | Syndicate Of Twenty Lenders [Member] | Base Rate [Member] | Additional Margin Upon Default [Member] | Moderate Credit Rating [Member] | |||||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||||||
Credit agreement - basis spread of variable rate | 2.00% | ||||||
Tranche B Commitment [Member] | Syndicate Of Twenty Lenders [Member] | Base Rate [Member] | Additional Margin Upon Default [Member] | Low Credit Rating [Member] | |||||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||||||
Credit agreement - basis spread of variable rate | 2.00% | ||||||
Tranche B Commitment [Member] | Syndicate Of Twenty Lenders [Member] | Eurodollar Rate Advance [Member] | High Credit Rating [Member] | |||||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||||||
Credit agreement - basis spread of variable rate | 1.125% | ||||||
Tranche B Commitment [Member] | Syndicate Of Twenty Lenders [Member] | Eurodollar Rate Advance [Member] | Moderate Credit Rating [Member] | |||||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||||||
Credit agreement - basis spread of variable rate | 1.25% | ||||||
Tranche B Commitment [Member] | Syndicate Of Twenty Lenders [Member] | Eurodollar Rate Advance [Member] | Low Credit Rating [Member] | |||||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||||||
Credit agreement - basis spread of variable rate | 1.375% | ||||||
Tranche B Commitment [Member] | Syndicate Of Twenty Lenders [Member] | Eurodollar Rate Advance [Member] | Additional Margin Upon Default [Member] | High Credit Rating [Member] | |||||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||||||
Credit agreement - basis spread of variable rate | 2.00% | ||||||
Tranche B Commitment [Member] | Syndicate Of Twenty Lenders [Member] | Eurodollar Rate Advance [Member] | Additional Margin Upon Default [Member] | Moderate Credit Rating [Member] | |||||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||||||
Credit agreement - basis spread of variable rate | 2.00% | ||||||
Tranche B Commitment [Member] | Syndicate Of Twenty Lenders [Member] | Eurodollar Rate Advance [Member] | Additional Margin Upon Default [Member] | Low Credit Rating [Member] | |||||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||||||
Credit agreement - basis spread of variable rate | 2.00% | ||||||
Syndicated Credit Agreement [Member] | Citibank N.A. [Member] | Subsequent Event [Member] | |||||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||||||
Credit agreement - maximum borrowing capacity | $ 2,850 | ||||||
Credit agreement - maximum amount outstanding during period | 2,850 | ||||||
Credit agreement - advances outstanding | $ 2,850 | ||||||
Credit agreement - base rate | Advances would bear interest, at AT&T’s option, either: • at a variable annual rate equal to: (1) the highest of (but not less than zero) (a) the rate of interest announced publicly by Citibank in New York, New York, from time to time, as Citibank’s base rate, (b) 0.5% per annum above the federal funds rate, and (c) the London interbank offered rate (“LIBOR”) applicable to dollars for a period of one month plus 1.00%, plus (2) an applicable margin, as set forth in the Citibank Term Loan (the “Applicable Margin for Base Advances (Citibank Term Loan)”); or • at a rate equal to: (i) LIBOR (adjusted upwards to reflect any bank reserve costs) for a period of one, two, three or six months, as applicable, plus (ii) an applicable margin, as set forth in the Citibank Term Loan (the “Applicable Margin for Eurodollar Rate Advances (Citibank Term Loan)”). | ||||||
Credit agreement - term loan description | Repayment of all advances with respect to the Citibank Term Loan must be made no later than December 31, 2019. | ||||||
Syndicated Credit Agreement [Member] | Citibank N.A. [Member] | Additional Margin Upon Default [Member] | Subsequent Event [Member] | |||||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||||||
Credit agreement - basis spread of variable rate | 2.00% | ||||||
Syndicated Credit Agreement [Member] | Citibank N.A. [Member] | Base Rate [Member] | High Credit Rating [Member] | Subsequent Event [Member] | |||||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||||||
Credit agreement - basis spread of variable rate | 0.00% | ||||||
Syndicated Credit Agreement [Member] | Citibank N.A. [Member] | Base Rate [Member] | Moderate Credit Rating [Member] | Subsequent Event [Member] | |||||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||||||
Credit agreement - basis spread of variable rate | 0.00% | ||||||
Syndicated Credit Agreement [Member] | Citibank N.A. [Member] | Base Rate [Member] | Low Credit Rating [Member] | Subsequent Event [Member] | |||||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||||||
Credit agreement - basis spread of variable rate | 0.00% | ||||||
Syndicated Credit Agreement [Member] | Citibank N.A. [Member] | Base Rate [Member] | Additional Margin Upon Default [Member] | High Credit Rating [Member] | Subsequent Event [Member] | |||||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||||||
Credit agreement - basis spread of variable rate | 2.00% | ||||||
Syndicated Credit Agreement [Member] | Citibank N.A. [Member] | Base Rate [Member] | Additional Margin Upon Default [Member] | Moderate Credit Rating [Member] | Subsequent Event [Member] | |||||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||||||
Credit agreement - basis spread of variable rate | 2.00% | ||||||
Syndicated Credit Agreement [Member] | Citibank N.A. [Member] | Base Rate [Member] | Additional Margin Upon Default [Member] | Low Credit Rating [Member] | Subsequent Event [Member] | |||||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||||||
Credit agreement - basis spread of variable rate | 2.00% | ||||||
Syndicated Credit Agreement [Member] | Citibank N.A. [Member] | Eurodollar Rate Advance [Member] | High Credit Rating [Member] | Subsequent Event [Member] | |||||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||||||
Credit agreement - basis spread of variable rate | 0.75% | ||||||
Syndicated Credit Agreement [Member] | Citibank N.A. [Member] | Eurodollar Rate Advance [Member] | Moderate Credit Rating [Member] | Subsequent Event [Member] | |||||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||||||
Credit agreement - basis spread of variable rate | 0.80% | ||||||
Syndicated Credit Agreement [Member] | Citibank N.A. [Member] | Eurodollar Rate Advance [Member] | Low Credit Rating [Member] | Subsequent Event [Member] | |||||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||||||
Credit agreement - basis spread of variable rate | 1.00% | ||||||
Syndicated Credit Agreement [Member] | Citibank N.A. [Member] | Eurodollar Rate Advance [Member] | Additional Margin Upon Default [Member] | High Credit Rating [Member] | Subsequent Event [Member] | |||||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||||||
Credit agreement - basis spread of variable rate | 2.00% | ||||||
Syndicated Credit Agreement [Member] | Citibank N.A. [Member] | Eurodollar Rate Advance [Member] | Additional Margin Upon Default [Member] | Moderate Credit Rating [Member] | Subsequent Event [Member] | |||||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||||||
Credit agreement - basis spread of variable rate | 2.00% | ||||||
Syndicated Credit Agreement [Member] | Citibank N.A. [Member] | Eurodollar Rate Advance [Member] | Additional Margin Upon Default [Member] | Low Credit Rating [Member] | Subsequent Event [Member] | |||||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||||||
Credit agreement - basis spread of variable rate | 2.00% |
Fair Value Measurements And D_4
Fair Value Measurements And Disclosure (Narrative) (Details) € in Millions, $ in Millions | Dec. 31, 2018EUR (€) | Dec. 31, 2018USD ($) | Dec. 31, 2017USD ($) |
Fair Value Measurements And Disclosure | |||
Available-for-sale Securities | $ 870 | ||
Fixed income investments - maturities under 1 year | 8 | ||
Fixed income investments - maturities between 1 to 3 years | 135 | ||
Fixed income investments - maturities between 3 to 5 years | 123 | ||
Fixed income investments - maturities for 5 or more years | 604 | ||
Anticipated reclassification of holding gains (losses) during the next 12 months - cash flow hedges | 63 | ||
Fair Value Disclosures [Line Items] | |||
Collateral received from counterparty | 103 | $ 968 | |
Collateral submitted to counterparty | 1,675 | $ 495 | |
Collateral contingently payable to the counterparty | 154 | ||
Debt Instrument, Face Amount | 41,977 | ||
DIRECTV [Member] | |||
Fair Value Disclosures [Line Items] | |||
Collateral contingently payable to the counterparty | $ 256 | ||
WarnerMedia [Member] | Net Investment Hedge [Member] | |||
Fair Value Disclosures [Line Items] | |||
Debt Instrument, Face Amount | € | € 700 |
Fair Value Measurements And D_5
Fair Value Measurements And Disclosure (Long-Term Debt And Other Financial Instruments) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | Dec. 31, 2018 | Dec. 31, 2017 | |
Schedule of Fair Value of Separate Accounts by Major Category of Investment [Line Items] | |||
Notes and debentures | $ 171,529 | $ 162,526 | |
Commercial paper | 3,048 | 0 | |
Bank borrowings | [1] | 4 | 2 |
Capitalized leases | 1,911 | 1,818 | |
Carrying Amount [Member] | |||
Schedule of Fair Value of Separate Accounts by Major Category of Investment [Line Items] | |||
Notes and debentures | [2] | 171,529 | 162,526 |
Commercial paper | 3,048 | 0 | |
Bank borrowings | 4 | 2 | |
Capitalized leases | 1,911 | 1,818 | |
Investment securities | 3,409 | 2,447 | |
Fair Value [Member] | |||
Schedule of Fair Value of Separate Accounts by Major Category of Investment [Line Items] | |||
Notes and debentures | [2] | 172,287 | 171,938 |
Commercial paper | 3,048 | 0 | |
Bank borrowings | 4 | 2 | |
Capitalized leases | 1,911 | 1,818 | |
Investment securities | $ 3,409 | $ 2,447 | |
[1] | Outstanding balance of short-term credit facility of a foreign subsidiary. | ||
[2] | Includes credit agreement borrowings. |
Fair Value Measurements And D_6
Fair Value Measurements And Disclosure (Fair Value Leveling) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | Dec. 31, 2018 | Dec. 31, 2017 |
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] | ||
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Securities (at fair value) | $ 870 | |
Securities Investment [Member] | ||
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] | ||
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Securities (at fair value) | 870 | $ 581 |
Securities Investment [Member] | United States [Member] | ||
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] | ||
Equity Securities (at fair value) | 1,061 | 1,142 |
Securities Investment [Member] | Non-US [Member] | ||
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] | ||
Equity Securities (at fair value) | 256 | 321 |
Fixed Income Equities [Member] | United States [Member] | ||
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] | ||
Equity Securities (at fair value) | 172 | 152 |
Interest Rate Swaps [Member] | ||
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] | ||
Asset Derivatives | 17 | |
Liability Derivatives | (39) | (31) |
Cross-Currency Swaps [Member] | ||
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] | ||
Asset Derivatives | 472 | 1,753 |
Liability Derivatives | (2,563) | (1,290) |
Foreign Exchange Contracts [Member] | ||
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] | ||
Asset Derivatives | 87 | |
Liability Derivatives | (2) | |
Level 1 [Member] | Securities Investment [Member] | ||
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] | ||
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Securities (at fair value) | 0 | 0 |
Level 1 [Member] | Securities Investment [Member] | United States [Member] | ||
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] | ||
Equity Securities (at fair value) | 1,061 | 1,142 |
Level 1 [Member] | Securities Investment [Member] | Non-US [Member] | ||
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] | ||
Equity Securities (at fair value) | 256 | 321 |
Level 1 [Member] | Fixed Income Equities [Member] | United States [Member] | ||
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] | ||
Equity Securities (at fair value) | 172 | 0 |
Level 1 [Member] | Interest Rate Swaps [Member] | ||
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] | ||
Asset Derivatives | 0 | |
Liability Derivatives | 0 | 0 |
Level 1 [Member] | Cross-Currency Swaps [Member] | ||
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] | ||
Asset Derivatives | 0 | 0 |
Liability Derivatives | 0 | 0 |
Level 1 [Member] | Foreign Exchange Contracts [Member] | ||
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] | ||
Asset Derivatives | 0 | |
Liability Derivatives | 0 | |
Level 2 [Member] | Securities Investment [Member] | ||
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] | ||
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Securities (at fair value) | 870 | 581 |
Level 2 [Member] | Securities Investment [Member] | United States [Member] | ||
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] | ||
Equity Securities (at fair value) | 0 | 0 |
Level 2 [Member] | Securities Investment [Member] | Non-US [Member] | ||
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] | ||
Equity Securities (at fair value) | 0 | 0 |
Level 2 [Member] | Fixed Income Equities [Member] | United States [Member] | ||
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] | ||
Equity Securities (at fair value) | 0 | 152 |
Level 2 [Member] | Interest Rate Swaps [Member] | ||
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] | ||
Asset Derivatives | 17 | |
Liability Derivatives | (39) | (31) |
Level 2 [Member] | Cross-Currency Swaps [Member] | ||
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] | ||
Asset Derivatives | 472 | 1,753 |
Liability Derivatives | (2,563) | (1,290) |
Level 2 [Member] | Foreign Exchange Contracts [Member] | ||
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] | ||
Asset Derivatives | 87 | |
Liability Derivatives | (2) | |
Level 3 [Member] | Securities Investment [Member] | ||
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] | ||
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Securities (at fair value) | 0 | 0 |
Level 3 [Member] | Securities Investment [Member] | United States [Member] | ||
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] | ||
Equity Securities (at fair value) | 0 | 0 |
Level 3 [Member] | Securities Investment [Member] | Non-US [Member] | ||
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] | ||
Equity Securities (at fair value) | 0 | 0 |
Level 3 [Member] | Fixed Income Equities [Member] | United States [Member] | ||
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] | ||
Equity Securities (at fair value) | 0 | 0 |
Level 3 [Member] | Interest Rate Swaps [Member] | ||
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] | ||
Asset Derivatives | 0 | |
Liability Derivatives | 0 | 0 |
Level 3 [Member] | Cross-Currency Swaps [Member] | ||
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] | ||
Asset Derivatives | 0 | 0 |
Liability Derivatives | 0 | $ 0 |
Level 3 [Member] | Foreign Exchange Contracts [Member] | ||
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] | ||
Asset Derivatives | 0 | |
Liability Derivatives | $ 0 |
Fair Value Measurement and Disc
Fair Value Measurement and Disclosure (Gains and Losses on Equity Securities) (Details) - Equity Securities [Member] - USD ($) $ in Millions | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2018 | Dec. 31, 2017 | Dec. 31, 2016 | |
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items] | |||
Total gains (losses) recognized on equity securities | $ (130) | $ 326 | $ 96 |
Gains (Losses) recognized on equity securities sold | 50 | 303 | 4 |
Unrealized gains (losses) recognized on equity securities held at end of period | $ (180) | $ 23 | $ 92 |
Fair Value Measurements And D_7
Fair Value Measurements And Disclosure (Notional Amount Of Our Outstanding Derivative Positions) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | Dec. 31, 2018 | Dec. 31, 2017 |
Derivative [Line Items] | ||
Notional amount of outstanding derivative positions | $ 47,769 | $ 48,527 |
Interest Rate Swaps [Member] | ||
Derivative [Line Items] | ||
Notional amount of outstanding derivative positions | 3,483 | 9,833 |
Cross-Currency Swaps [Member] | ||
Derivative [Line Items] | ||
Notional amount of outstanding derivative positions | 42,192 | 38,694 |
Foreign Exchange Contracts [Member] | ||
Derivative [Line Items] | ||
Notional amount of outstanding derivative positions | $ 2,094 | $ 0 |
Fair Value Measurements And D_8
Fair Value Measurements And Disclosure (Effect Of Derivatives On The Consolidated Statements Of Income) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2018 | Dec. 31, 2017 | Dec. 31, 2016 | |
Fair Value Hedging Relationships [Member] | Interest Rate Swaps [Member] | Interest Expense [Member] | |||
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items] | |||
Gain (Loss) on interest rate swaps | $ (12) | $ (68) | $ (61) |
Gain (Loss) on long-term debt | 12 | 68 | 61 |
Cash Flow Hedging [Member] | Cross-Currency Swaps [Member] | |||
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items] | |||
Gain (Loss) recognized in accumulated Other Comprehensive Income | (825) | 571 | 1,061 |
Cash Flow Hedging [Member] | Interest Rate Locks [Member] | Interest Expense [Member] | |||
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items] | |||
Income (expense) reclassified from accumulated Other Comprehensive Income into income | (58) | (60) | (59) |
Cash Flow Hedging [Member] | Foreign Exchange Contracts [Member] | |||
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items] | |||
Gain (Loss) recognized in accumulated Other Comprehensive Income | 51 | 0 | 0 |
Cash Flow Hedging [Member] | Foreign Exchange Contracts [Member] | Other Income Expense [Member] | |||
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items] | |||
Income (expense) reclassified from accumulated Other Comprehensive Income into income | $ 39 | $ 0 | $ 0 |
Income Taxes (Narrative) (Detai
Income Taxes (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2018 | Dec. 31, 2017 | Dec. 31, 2016 | |
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items] | |||
Net operating and capital loss carryforwards (tax effected) for federal income tax purposes | $ 179 | ||
Net operating and capital loss carryforwards (tax effected) for state income tax purposes | 950 | ||
Net operating and capital loss carryforwards (tax effected) for foreign income tax purposes | $ 3,022 | ||
Expiration year of operating and capital loss carryforwards | Dec. 31, 2038 | ||
Expiration year for credit carryforwards | Dec. 31, 2038 | ||
Income Tax Contingency [Line Items] | |||
IRS field examination of tax returns complete through year | 2,010 | ||
All audit periods prior to this year are closed for federal examination purposes | 2,003 | ||
Enactment of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, Total | $ 22,211 | ||
Enactment date and measurement period adjustments from the Act | (718) | $ (20,271) | $ 0 |
Net deposits to various taxing jurisdictions | 2,115 | 3,058 | |
Accrued interest and penalties included in unrecognized tax benefits balance at year end | 2,588 | 1,333 | |
Net interest and penalty expense (benefit) included in income tax expense | 1,290 | $ 107 | $ 24 |
Federal [Member] | |||
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items] | |||
Tax credit carryforwards | 340 | ||
State [Member] | |||
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items] | |||
Tax credit carryforwards | $ 1,979 | ||
Period Start [Member] | |||
Income Tax Contingency [Line Items] | |||
Tax return year(s) subject to resolution with IRS Appeals Division | 2,003 | ||
Period End [Member] | |||
Income Tax Contingency [Line Items] | |||
Tax return year(s) subject to resolution with IRS Appeals Division | 2,010 |
Income Taxes (Components Of Def
Income Taxes (Components Of Deferred Tax Liabilities (Assets)) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | Dec. 31, 2018 | Dec. 31, 2017 |
Income Taxes [Abstract] | ||
Depreciation and amortization | $ 43,105 | $ 30,982 |
Licenses and nonamortizable intangibles | 17,561 | 16,129 |
Employee benefits | (5,366) | (6,202) |
Deferred fulfillment costs | 2,679 | 2,472 |
Net operating loss and other carryforwards | (6,470) | (6,067) |
Other - net | 1,651 | 1,222 |
Subtotal | 53,160 | 38,536 |
Deferred tax assets valuation allowance | 4,588 | 4,640 |
Net deferred tax liabilities | 57,748 | 43,176 |
Noncurrent deferred tax liabilities | 57,859 | 43,207 |
Less: Noncurrent deferred tax assets | (111) | (31) |
Net deferred tax liabilities | $ 57,748 | $ 43,176 |
Income Taxes (Changes In Unreco
Income Taxes (Changes In Unrecognized Tax Benefits Balance For Federal State And Foreign Tax) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | 12 Months Ended | |
Dec. 31, 2018 | Dec. 31, 2017 | |
Income Taxes [Abstract] | ||
Balance at beginning of year | $ 7,648 | $ 6,516 |
Increases for tax positions related to the current year | 336 | 1,438 |
Increases for tax positions related to prior years | 2,615 | 200 |
Decreases for tax positions related to prior years | (394) | (461) |
Lapse of statute of limitations | (52) | (28) |
Settlements | (664) | (23) |
Current year acquisitions | 872 | 0 |
Increase Resulting from Foreign Currency Translation | 6 | |
Decrease resulting from foreign currency effects | (3) | |
Balance at end of year | 10,358 | 7,648 |
Accrued interest and penalties | 2,588 | 1,333 |
Gross unrecognized income tax benefits | 12,946 | 8,981 |
Less: Deferred federal and state income tax benefits | (811) | (388) |
Less: Tax attributable to timing items included above | (3,430) | (2,368) |
Less: UTBs included above that relate to acquired entities that would impact goodwill if recognized | (918) | 0 |
Total UTB that, if recognized, would impact the effective income tax rate as of the end of the year | $ 7,787 | $ 6,225 |
Income Taxes (Components of Inc
Income Taxes (Components of Income Tax Expense) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2018 | Dec. 31, 2017 | Dec. 31, 2016 | |
Income Taxes [Abstract] | |||
Current, federal | $ 3,258 | $ 682 | $ 2,915 |
Deferred - net, federal | 277 | (17,970) | 3,127 |
Total federal income tax | 3,535 | (17,288) | 6,042 |
Current, state and local | 513 | 79 | 282 |
Deferred - net, state and local | 473 | 1,041 | 339 |
Total state and local income tax | 986 | 1,120 | 621 |
Current, foreign | 539 | 471 | 335 |
Deferred - net, foreign | (140) | 989 | (519) |
Total foreign income tax | 399 | 1,460 | (184) |
Total | $ 4,920 | $ (14,708) | $ 6,479 |
Income Taxes (Schedule of Incom
Income Taxes (Schedule of Income before Income Tax, Domestic and Foreign) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2018 | Dec. 31, 2017 | Dec. 31, 2016 | |
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes | |||
U.S. income before income taxes | $ 25,379 | $ 16,438 | $ 20,911 |
Foreign income (loss) before income taxes | (506) | (1,299) | (1,099) |
Income Before Income Taxes | $ 24,873 | $ 15,139 | $ 19,812 |
Income Taxes (Reconciliation Of
Income Taxes (Reconciliation Of Income Tax Expense Based On Federal Statutory Rate To Amount Per Effective Tax Rate) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2018 | Dec. 31, 2017 | Dec. 31, 2016 | |
Income Taxes [Abstract] | |||
Taxes computed at federal statutory rate | $ 5,223 | $ 5,299 | $ 6,934 |
State and local income taxes - net of federal income tax benefit | 738 | 509 | 416 |
Enactment date and measurement period adjustments from the Act | (718) | (20,271) | 0 |
Tax on foreign investments | (466) | 73 | 168 |
Mexico restructuring | 0 | 0 | (471) |
Other - net | 143 | (318) | (568) |
Total | $ 4,920 | $ (14,708) | $ 6,479 |
Effective Tax Rate | 19.80% | (97.20%) | 32.70% |
Statutory federal income tax rate | 21.00% | 35.00% | 35.00% |
Pension And Postretirement Be_4
Pension And Postretirement Benefits (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | 1 Months Ended | 2 Months Ended | 5 Months Ended | 7 Months Ended | 10 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended | |||||||
Jun. 30, 2018 | Feb. 28, 2018 | May 31, 2018 | Dec. 31, 2018 | Dec. 31, 2018 | Dec. 31, 2019 | Dec. 31, 2018 | Dec. 31, 2017 | Dec. 31, 2016 | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||||||||||
Defined Benefit Measurement Date | Dec. 31, 2018 | ||||||||||||
Preferred equity interest in Mobility | $ 8,803 | $ 8,803 | $ 8,803 | ||||||||||
Combined net pension and postretirement cost | $ (4,251) | $ 155 | $ 303 | ||||||||||
Composite rate of compensation increase for determining benefit obligation | 3.00% | 3.00% | 3.00% | ||||||||||
Pension Contribution Date | Oct. 31, 2018 | ||||||||||||
Pension Contributions | $ 80 | ||||||||||||
Benefit cost of the contributory savings plans | 724 | 703 | 631 | ||||||||||
Forecast [Member] | |||||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||||||||||
Increase (decrease) in plan benefit obligations due to change in assumed rates | $ 265 | ||||||||||||
Percentage decrease in the actual long-term rate of return used to report the impact of change on future combined net pension and postretirement cost | 0.50% | ||||||||||||
Composite rate of compensation increase for determining benefit obligation | 3.00% | ||||||||||||
Pension Benefit [Member] | |||||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||||||||||
Accumulated benefit obligation for pension plans | $ 53,963 | $ 53,963 | 53,963 | 57,488 | |||||||||
Combined net pension and postretirement cost | $ (909) | $ 651 | $ 1,352 | ||||||||||
Discount rate for determining projected benefit obligation | 4.50% | 4.50% | 4.50% | 3.80% | 4.40% | ||||||||
Weighted-average interest crediting rate for cash balance | [1] | 3.70% | 3.70% | 3.70% | 3.50% | 3.50% | |||||||
Increase (decrease) in plan benefit obligations due to change in assumed rates | $ (4,394) | $ 4,609 | |||||||||||
Increase (decrease) in discount rate over prior year | 0.70% | (0.60%) | |||||||||||
Long-term rate of return on plan assets | 7.00% | 7.75% | 7.75% | ||||||||||
Composite rate of compensation increase for determining benefit obligation | 3.00% | 3.00% | 3.00% | 3.00% | 3.00% | ||||||||
Pension Benefit [Member] | Forecast [Member] | |||||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||||||||||
Weighted-average interest crediting rate for cash balance | 0.50% | ||||||||||||
Increase (decrease) in plan benefit obligations due to change in assumed rates | $ 130 | ||||||||||||
Pension Benefit [Member] | Mortality Assumption Rate Change [Member] | |||||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||||||||||
Increase (decrease) in plan benefit obligations due to change in assumed rates | $ (488) | $ (355) | |||||||||||
Pension Benefit [Member] | Service Cost [Member] | |||||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||||||||||
Discount rate in effect for determining net cost | 4.00% | 4.40% | 4.20% | [2],[3] | 4.60% | [2],[3] | 4.90% | [2],[3] | |||||
Pension Benefit [Member] | Interest Cost [Member] | |||||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||||||||||
Discount rate in effect for determining net cost | 3.40% | 4.00% | 3.80% | [2],[3] | 3.60% | [2],[3] | 3.70% | [2],[3] | |||||
Postretirement Benefit [Member] | |||||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||||||||||
Combined net pension and postretirement cost | $ (3,342) | $ (496) | $ (1,049) | ||||||||||
Discount rate for determining projected benefit obligation | 4.40% | 4.40% | 4.40% | 3.70% | 4.30% | ||||||||
Weighted-average interest crediting rate for cash balance | [1] | 0.00% | 0.00% | 0.00% | 0.00% | 0.00% | |||||||
Increase (decrease) in plan benefit obligations due to change in assumed rates | $ (1,509) | $ 1,605 | |||||||||||
Increase (decrease) in discount rate over prior year | 0.70% | (0.60%) | |||||||||||
Long-term rate of return on plan assets | 5.75% | 5.75% | 5.75% | ||||||||||
Composite rate of compensation increase for determining benefit obligation | 3.00% | 3.00% | 3.00% | 3.00% | 3.00% | ||||||||
Postretirement Benefit [Member] | Mortality Assumption Rate Change [Member] | |||||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||||||||||
Increase (decrease) in plan benefit obligations due to change in assumed rates | $ (61) | $ (95) | |||||||||||
Postretirement Benefit [Member] | Service Cost [Member] | |||||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||||||||||
Discount rate in effect for determining net cost | 4.00% | 4.30% | 4.30% | [2],[3] | 4.60% | [2],[3] | 5.00% | [2],[3] | |||||
Postretirement Benefit [Member] | Interest Cost [Member] | |||||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||||||||||
Discount rate in effect for determining net cost | 3.30% | 3.70% | 3.60% | [2],[3] | 3.40% | [2],[3] | 3.60% | [2],[3] | |||||
Supplemental Retirement Plans [Member] | |||||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||||||||||
Combined net pension and postretirement cost | $ 53 | $ 215 | |||||||||||
Composite rate of compensation increase for determining benefit obligation | 4.40% | 4.40% | 4.40% | 3.70% | |||||||||
Accumulated benefit obligation | $ 2,397 | $ 2,397 | $ 2,397 | $ 2,344 | |||||||||
Deferred compensation expense | $ 128 | $ 138 | $ 148 | ||||||||||
Administrative Expense [Member] | |||||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||||||||||
Estimated annual health care cost trend rate for prior and current year | 2.50% | ||||||||||||
Administrative Expense [Member] | Forecast [Member] | |||||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||||||||||
Estimated annual health care cost trend rate for prior and current year | 2.50% | ||||||||||||
Dental Claims [Member] | |||||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||||||||||
Estimated annual health care cost trend rate for prior and current year | 3.00% | ||||||||||||
Dental Claims [Member] | Forecast [Member] | |||||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||||||||||
Estimated annual health care cost trend rate for prior and current year | 3.00% | ||||||||||||
Prescription Drug Cost - Eligible Participants [Member] | |||||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||||||||||
Estimated annual growth rate for health care cost | 4.50% | 4.50% | 4.50% | ||||||||||
Prescription Drug Cost - Eligible Participants [Member] | Forecast [Member] | |||||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||||||||||
Estimated annual growth rate for health care cost | 4.50% | ||||||||||||
Medical Cost - Eligible Participants [Member] | |||||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||||||||||
Estimated annual growth rate for health care cost | 4.50% | 4.50% | 4.50% | ||||||||||
Medical Cost - Eligible Participants [Member] | Forecast [Member] | |||||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||||||||||
Estimated annual growth rate for health care cost | 4.50% | ||||||||||||
Time Warner Inc. [Member] | |||||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||||||||||
Business Acquisition, Effective Date of Acquisition | Jun. 14, 2018 | Jun. 14, 2018 | |||||||||||
[1] | Weighted-average interest crediting rates for cash balance pension programs relate only to the cash balance portion of total pension benefits. A 0.50% increase in the weighted-average interest crediting rate would increase the pension benefit obligation by $130. | ||||||||||||
[2] | Weighted-average discount rate for pension benefits in effect from January 1, 2018 through May 31, 2018 was 4.00% for service cost and 3.40% for interest costs, and, from June 1, 2018 through December 31, 2018 was 4.40% for service cost and 4.00% for interest cost. | ||||||||||||
[3] | Weighted-average discount rate for postretirement benefits in effect from January 1, 2018 through February 28, 2018 was 4.00% for service costs and 3.30% for interest costs, and, from March 1, 2018 through December 31, 2018 was 4.30% for service cost and 3.70% for interest cost. |
Pension And Postretirement Be_5
Pension And Postretirement Benefits (Change In The Projected Benefit Obligation) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2018 | Dec. 31, 2017 | Dec. 31, 2016 | |
Pension Benefit [Member] | |||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||
Benefit obligation at beginning of year | $ 59,294 | $ 56,183 | |
Service cost - benefits earned during the period | 1,116 | 1,128 | $ 1,112 |
Interest cost on projected benefit obligation | 2,092 | 1,936 | 1,980 |
Amendments | 50 | 48 | |
Actuarial (gain) loss | (5,046) | 3,696 | |
Special termination benefits | 1 | 3 | |
Benefits paid | (4,632) | (3,705) | |
Acquisition | 2,559 | 0 | |
Plan transfers | 5 | 5 | |
Benefit obligation at end of year | 55,439 | 59,294 | 56,183 |
Postretirement Benefit [Member] | |||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||
Benefit obligation at beginning of year | 24,059 | 26,027 | |
Service cost - benefits earned during the period | 109 | 138 | 192 |
Interest cost on projected benefit obligation | 778 | 809 | 972 |
Amendments | (1,145) | (1,807) | |
Actuarial (gain) loss | (2,815) | 630 | |
Special termination benefits | 1 | 1 | |
Benefits paid | (1,680) | (1,739) | |
Acquisition | 71 | 0 | |
Plan transfers | 0 | 0 | |
Benefit obligation at end of year | $ 19,378 | $ 24,059 | $ 26,027 |
Pension And Postretirement Be_6
Pension And Postretirement Benefits (Change In The Value Of Plan Assets And The Plans' Funded Status) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2018 | Dec. 31, 2017 | ||
Pension Benefit [Member] | |||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year | $ 45,463 | $ 42,610 | |
Actual return on plan assets | (1,044) | 5,987 | |
Benefits paid | [1] | (4,632) | (3,705) |
Contributions | 9,307 | 566 | |
Acquisition | 2,582 | 0 | |
Plan transfers | 5 | 5 | |
Fair value of plan assets at end of year | 51,681 | 45,463 | |
Unfunded status at end of year | [2] | (3,758) | (13,831) |
Postretirement Benefit [Member] | |||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year | 5,973 | 5,921 | |
Actual return on plan assets | (218) | 607 | |
Benefits paid | [1] | (1,503) | (1,055) |
Contributions | 25 | 500 | |
Acquisition | 0 | 0 | |
Plan transfers | 0 | 0 | |
Fair value of plan assets at end of year | 4,277 | 5,973 | |
Unfunded status at end of year | [2] | $ (15,101) | $ (18,086) |
[1] | At our discretion, certain postretirement benefits may be paid from AT&T cash accounts, which does not reduce Voluntary Employee Benefit Association (VEBA) assets. Future benefit payments may be made from VEBA trusts and thus reduce those asset balances. | ||
[2] | Funded status is not indicative of our ability to pay ongoing pension benefits or of our obligation to fund retirement trusts. Required pension funding is determined in accordance with the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended (ERISA) and applicable regulations. |
Pension And Postretirement Be_7
Pension And Postretirement Benefits (Employee Benefit Obligation Amounts Recognized) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | Dec. 31, 2018 | Dec. 31, 2017 | |
Pension Benefit [Member] | |||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||
Current portion of employee benefit obligation | [1] | $ 0 | $ 0 |
Employee benefit obligation | [2] | (3,758) | (13,831) |
Net amount recognized | (3,758) | (13,831) | |
Postretirement Benefit [Member] | |||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||
Current portion of employee benefit obligation | [1] | (1,464) | (1,585) |
Employee benefit obligation | [2] | (13,637) | (16,501) |
Net amount recognized | $ (15,101) | $ (18,086) | |
[1] | Included in "Accounts payable and accrued liabilities." | ||
[2] | Included in "Postemployment benefit obligation." |
Pension And Postretirement Be_8
Pension And Postretirement Benefits (Net Periodic Benefit Cost) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2018 | Dec. 31, 2017 | Dec. 31, 2016 | |
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||
Net periodic benefit (credit) cost | $ (4,251) | $ 155 | $ 303 |
Pension Benefit [Member] | |||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||
Service cost - benefits earned during the period | 1,116 | 1,128 | 1,112 |
Interest cost on projected benefit obligation | 2,092 | 1,936 | 1,980 |
Expected return on assets | (3,190) | (3,134) | (3,115) |
Amortization of prior service cost (credit) | (115) | (123) | (103) |
Actuarial (gain) loss | (812) | 844 | 1,478 |
Net periodic benefit (credit) cost | (909) | 651 | 1,352 |
Postretirement Benefit [Member] | |||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||
Service cost - benefits earned during the period | 109 | 138 | 192 |
Interest cost on projected benefit obligation | 778 | 809 | 972 |
Expected return on assets | (304) | (319) | (355) |
Amortization of prior service cost (credit) | (1,635) | (1,466) | (1,277) |
Actuarial (gain) loss | (2,290) | 342 | (581) |
Net periodic benefit (credit) cost | $ (3,342) | $ (496) | $ (1,049) |
Pension And Postretirement Be_9
Pension And Postretirement Benefits (Other Changes Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | 12 Months Ended | ||||
Dec. 31, 2018 | Dec. 31, 2017 | Dec. 31, 2016 | |||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||
Prior service (cost) credit | $ 830 | $ 1,083 | $ 497 | ||
Amortization of prior service cost (credit) | (1,322) | (988) | (858) | ||
Adoption of ASU 2018-02 | (658) | [1] | 1,529 | [2] | |
ASU 2018-02 [Member] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||
Adoption of ASU 2018-02 | 1,529 | ||||
Pension Benefit [Member] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||
Balance at beginning of year | 571 | 575 | 512 | ||
Prior service (cost) credit | (37) | (30) | 128 | ||
Amortization of prior service cost (credit) | (87) | (76) | (65) | ||
Total recognized in other comprehensive (income) loss | (124) | (106) | 63 | ||
Balance at end of year | 447 | 571 | 575 | ||
Pension Benefit [Member] | ASU 2018-02 [Member] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||
Adoption of ASU 2018-02 | 0 | 102 | 0 | ||
Postretirement Benefit [Member] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||
Balance at beginning of year | 6,456 | 5,089 | 5,510 | ||
Prior service (cost) credit | 864 | 1,120 | 372 | ||
Amortization of prior service cost (credit) | (1,234) | (907) | (793) | ||
Total recognized in other comprehensive (income) loss | (370) | 213 | (421) | ||
Balance at end of year | 6,086 | 6,456 | 5,089 | ||
Postretirement Benefit [Member] | ASU 2018-02 [Member] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||
Adoption of ASU 2018-02 | $ 0 | $ 1,154 | $ 0 | ||
[1] | With the adoption of ASU 2016-01, the unrealized (gains) losses on our equity investments are reclassified to retained earnings (see Note 1). | ||||
[2] | With the adoption of ASU 2018-02, the stranded tax effects resulting from the application of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act are reclassified to retained earnings (see Note 1). |
Pension and Postretirement B_10
Pension and Postretirement Benefits (Weighted Average Assumptions - Projected Benefit Obligation And Net Pension And Postemployment Benefit Cost) (Details) | 2 Months Ended | 5 Months Ended | 7 Months Ended | 10 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended | ||||||
Feb. 28, 2018 | May 31, 2018 | Dec. 31, 2018 | Dec. 31, 2018 | Dec. 31, 2018 | Dec. 31, 2017 | Dec. 31, 2016 | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||||||||
Composite rate of compensation increase for determining benefit obligation | 3.00% | 3.00% | 3.00% | ||||||||
Pension Benefit [Member] | |||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||||||||
Discount rate for determining projected benefit obligation at December 31 | 4.50% | 4.50% | 4.50% | 3.80% | 4.40% | ||||||
Weighted-average interest crediting rate for cash balance | [1] | 3.70% | 3.70% | 3.70% | 3.50% | 3.50% | |||||
Long-term rate of return on plan assets | 7.00% | 7.75% | 7.75% | ||||||||
Composite rate of compensation increase for determining benefit obligation | 3.00% | 3.00% | 3.00% | 3.00% | 3.00% | ||||||
Composite rate of compensation increase for determining net cost (benefit) | 3.00% | 3.00% | 3.10% | ||||||||
Pension Benefit [Member] | Service Cost [Member] | |||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||||||||
Discount rate in effect for determining net cost | 4.00% | 4.40% | 4.20% | [2],[3] | 4.60% | [2],[3] | 4.90% | [2],[3] | |||
Pension Benefit [Member] | Interest Cost [Member] | |||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||||||||
Discount rate in effect for determining net cost | 3.40% | 4.00% | 3.80% | [2],[3] | 3.60% | [2],[3] | 3.70% | [2],[3] | |||
Postretirement Benefit [Member] | |||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||||||||
Discount rate for determining projected benefit obligation at December 31 | 4.40% | 4.40% | 4.40% | 3.70% | 4.30% | ||||||
Weighted-average interest crediting rate for cash balance | [1] | 0.00% | 0.00% | 0.00% | 0.00% | 0.00% | |||||
Long-term rate of return on plan assets | 5.75% | 5.75% | 5.75% | ||||||||
Composite rate of compensation increase for determining benefit obligation | 3.00% | 3.00% | 3.00% | 3.00% | 3.00% | ||||||
Composite rate of compensation increase for determining net cost (benefit) | 3.00% | 3.00% | 3.10% | ||||||||
Postretirement Benefit [Member] | Service Cost [Member] | |||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||||||||
Discount rate in effect for determining net cost | 4.00% | 4.30% | 4.30% | [2],[3] | 4.60% | [2],[3] | 5.00% | [2],[3] | |||
Postretirement Benefit [Member] | Interest Cost [Member] | |||||||||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||||||||
Discount rate in effect for determining net cost | 3.30% | 3.70% | 3.60% | [2],[3] | 3.40% | [2],[3] | 3.60% | [2],[3] | |||
[1] | Weighted-average interest crediting rates for cash balance pension programs relate only to the cash balance portion of total pension benefits. A 0.50% increase in the weighted-average interest crediting rate would increase the pension benefit obligation by $130. | ||||||||||
[2] | Weighted-average discount rate for pension benefits in effect from January 1, 2018 through May 31, 2018 was 4.00% for service cost and 3.40% for interest costs, and, from June 1, 2018 through December 31, 2018 was 4.40% for service cost and 4.00% for interest cost. | ||||||||||
[3] | Weighted-average discount rate for postretirement benefits in effect from January 1, 2018 through February 28, 2018 was 4.00% for service costs and 3.30% for interest costs, and, from March 1, 2018 through December 31, 2018 was 4.30% for service cost and 3.70% for interest cost. |
Pension And Postretirement B_11
Pension And Postretirement Benefits (Schedule Of Defined Benefit Plan Targeted And Actual Plan Asset Allocations) (Details) | Dec. 31, 2018 | Dec. 31, 2017 |
Pension Assets [Member] | ||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||
Actual plan asset allocation percentage | 100.00% | 100.00% |
Aggregate percentage of the fair value of investments to the fair value of total plan assets held as of the measurement date | 18.00% | |
Pension Assets [Member] | Domestic Equity Securities [Member] | ||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||
Actual plan asset allocation percentage | 16.00% | 23.00% |
Pension Assets [Member] | Domestic Equity Securities [Member] | Minimum [Member] | ||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||
Actual plan asset allocation percentage | 15.00% | 15.00% |
Pension Assets [Member] | Domestic Equity Securities [Member] | Maximum [Member] | ||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||
Actual plan asset allocation percentage | 25.00% | 25.00% |
Pension Assets [Member] | International Equity Securities [Member] | ||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||
Actual plan asset allocation percentage | 12.00% | 16.00% |
Pension Assets [Member] | International Equity Securities [Member] | Minimum [Member] | ||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||
Actual plan asset allocation percentage | 7.00% | 7.00% |
Pension Assets [Member] | International Equity Securities [Member] | Maximum [Member] | ||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||
Actual plan asset allocation percentage | 17.00% | 17.00% |
Pension Assets [Member] | Fixed Income Securities [Member] | ||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||
Actual plan asset allocation percentage | 37.00% | 41.00% |
Pension Assets [Member] | Fixed Income Securities [Member] | Minimum [Member] | ||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||
Actual plan asset allocation percentage | 29.00% | 29.00% |
Pension Assets [Member] | Fixed Income Securities [Member] | Maximum [Member] | ||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||
Actual plan asset allocation percentage | 39.00% | 39.00% |
Pension Assets [Member] | Real Assets [Member] | ||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||
Actual plan asset allocation percentage | 9.00% | 10.00% |
Pension Assets [Member] | Real Assets [Member] | Minimum [Member] | ||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||
Actual plan asset allocation percentage | 4.00% | 4.00% |
Pension Assets [Member] | Real Assets [Member] | Maximum [Member] | ||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||
Actual plan asset allocation percentage | 14.00% | 14.00% |
Pension Assets [Member] | Private Equity [Member] | ||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||
Actual plan asset allocation percentage | 8.00% | 10.00% |
Pension Assets [Member] | Private Equity [Member] | Minimum [Member] | ||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||
Actual plan asset allocation percentage | 2.00% | 2.00% |
Pension Assets [Member] | Private Equity [Member] | Maximum [Member] | ||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||
Actual plan asset allocation percentage | 12.00% | 12.00% |
Pension Assets [Member] | Preferred Interest [Member] | ||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||
Actual plan asset allocation percentage | 18.00% | 0.00% |
Pension Assets [Member] | Preferred Interest [Member] | Minimum [Member] | ||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||
Actual plan asset allocation percentage | 13.00% | 13.00% |
Pension Assets [Member] | Preferred Interest [Member] | Maximum [Member] | ||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||
Actual plan asset allocation percentage | 23.00% | 23.00% |
Pension Assets [Member] | Other [Member] | ||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||
Actual plan asset allocation percentage | 0.00% | 0.00% |
Pension Assets [Member] | Other [Member] | Minimum [Member] | ||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||
Actual plan asset allocation percentage | 0.00% | 0.00% |
Pension Assets [Member] | Other [Member] | Maximum [Member] | ||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||
Actual plan asset allocation percentage | 5.00% | 5.00% |
Postretirement Assets [Member] | ||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||
Actual plan asset allocation percentage | 100.00% | 100.00% |
Aggregate percentage of the fair value of investments to the fair value of total plan assets held as of the measurement date | 4.00% | |
Postretirement Assets [Member] | Domestic Equity Securities [Member] | ||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||
Actual plan asset allocation percentage | 25.00% | 21.00% |
Postretirement Assets [Member] | Domestic Equity Securities [Member] | Minimum [Member] | ||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||
Actual plan asset allocation percentage | 20.00% | 20.00% |
Postretirement Assets [Member] | Domestic Equity Securities [Member] | Maximum [Member] | ||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||
Actual plan asset allocation percentage | 30.00% | 30.00% |
Postretirement Assets [Member] | International Equity Securities [Member] | ||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||
Actual plan asset allocation percentage | 18.00% | 15.00% |
Postretirement Assets [Member] | International Equity Securities [Member] | Minimum [Member] | ||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||
Actual plan asset allocation percentage | 13.00% | 13.00% |
Postretirement Assets [Member] | International Equity Securities [Member] | Maximum [Member] | ||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||
Actual plan asset allocation percentage | 23.00% | 23.00% |
Postretirement Assets [Member] | Fixed Income Securities [Member] | ||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||
Actual plan asset allocation percentage | 39.00% | 40.00% |
Postretirement Assets [Member] | Fixed Income Securities [Member] | Minimum [Member] | ||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||
Actual plan asset allocation percentage | 34.00% | 34.00% |
Postretirement Assets [Member] | Fixed Income Securities [Member] | Maximum [Member] | ||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||
Actual plan asset allocation percentage | 44.00% | 44.00% |
Postretirement Assets [Member] | Real Assets [Member] | ||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||
Actual plan asset allocation percentage | 1.00% | 1.00% |
Postretirement Assets [Member] | Real Assets [Member] | Minimum [Member] | ||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||
Actual plan asset allocation percentage | 0.00% | 0.00% |
Postretirement Assets [Member] | Real Assets [Member] | Maximum [Member] | ||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||
Actual plan asset allocation percentage | 6.00% | 6.00% |
Postretirement Assets [Member] | Private Equity [Member] | ||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||
Actual plan asset allocation percentage | 2.00% | 2.00% |
Postretirement Assets [Member] | Private Equity [Member] | Minimum [Member] | ||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||
Actual plan asset allocation percentage | 0.00% | 0.00% |
Postretirement Assets [Member] | Private Equity [Member] | Maximum [Member] | ||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||
Actual plan asset allocation percentage | 7.00% | 7.00% |
Postretirement Assets [Member] | Preferred Interest [Member] | ||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||
Actual plan asset allocation percentage | 0.00% | 0.00% |
Postretirement Assets [Member] | Preferred Interest [Member] | Minimum [Member] | ||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||
Actual plan asset allocation percentage | 0.00% | 0.00% |
Postretirement Assets [Member] | Preferred Interest [Member] | Maximum [Member] | ||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||
Actual plan asset allocation percentage | 0.00% | 0.00% |
Postretirement Assets [Member] | Other [Member] | ||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||
Actual plan asset allocation percentage | 15.00% | 21.00% |
Postretirement Assets [Member] | Other [Member] | Minimum [Member] | ||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||
Actual plan asset allocation percentage | 10.00% | 10.00% |
Postretirement Assets [Member] | Other [Member] | Maximum [Member] | ||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||
Actual plan asset allocation percentage | 20.00% | 20.00% |
Pension And Postretirement B_12
Pension And Postretirement Benefits (Schedule Of Fair Value Of Pension And Postretirement Assets And Liabilities By Level) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | Dec. 31, 2018 | Dec. 31, 2017 | |||
Pension Assets And Liabilities Fair Value [Member] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||
Non-interest bearing cash | $ 52 | $ 96 | |||
Interest bearing cash | 208 | 27 | |||
Foreign currency contracts | 5 | 2 | |||
Equity securities - Domestic equities | 6,913 | 9,445 | |||
Equity securities - International equities | 3,602 | 4,968 | |||
Prefered Interest | 8,749 | ||||
Fixed income securities - Corporate bonds and other instruments | 10,723 | 10,570 | |||
Fixed income securities - Government and municipal bonds | 6,221 | 5,751 | |||
Fixed income securities - Mortgage-backed securities | 382 | 765 | |||
Real estate and real assets | 2,579 | 2,287 | |||
Securities lending collateral | 1,478 | 2,248 | |||
Purchased options, futures, and swaps | 3 | ||||
Receivable for variation margin | 19 | 6 | |||
Assets at fair value | 40,934 | 36,165 | |||
Investments sold short and other liabilities at fair value | (663) | (501) | |||
Total plan net assets at fair value | 40,271 | 35,664 | |||
Assets held at net asset value practical expedient | |||||
Private equity funds | 4,384 | 4,493 | |||
Real estate funds | 2,162 | 2,340 | |||
Commingled funds | 5,740 | 5,142 | |||
Total assets held at net asset value practical expedient | 12,286 | 11,975 | |||
Other assets (liabilities) | [1] | (876) | (2,176) | ||
Total Plan Net Assets | 51,681 | 45,463 | |||
Pension Assets And Liabilities Fair Value [Member] | Level 1 [Member] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||
Non-interest bearing cash | 52 | 96 | |||
Interest bearing cash | 167 | 7 | |||
Foreign currency contracts | 0 | 0 | |||
Equity securities - Domestic equities | 6,912 | 9,441 | |||
Equity securities - International equities | 3,594 | 4,967 | |||
Prefered Interest | 0 | ||||
Fixed income securities - Corporate bonds and other instruments | 0 | 48 | |||
Fixed income securities - Government and municipal bonds | 51 | 0 | |||
Fixed income securities - Mortgage-backed securities | 0 | 0 | |||
Real estate and real assets | 0 | 0 | |||
Securities lending collateral | 12 | 8 | |||
Purchased options, futures, and swaps | 0 | ||||
Receivable for variation margin | 19 | 6 | |||
Assets at fair value | 10,807 | 14,573 | |||
Investments sold short and other liabilities at fair value | (657) | (497) | |||
Total plan net assets at fair value | 10,150 | 14,076 | |||
Pension Assets And Liabilities Fair Value [Member] | Level 2 [Member] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||
Non-interest bearing cash | 0 | 0 | |||
Interest bearing cash | 41 | 20 | |||
Foreign currency contracts | 5 | 2 | |||
Equity securities - Domestic equities | 0 | 0 | |||
Equity securities - International equities | 8 | 1 | |||
Prefered Interest | 0 | ||||
Fixed income securities - Corporate bonds and other instruments | 10,719 | 10,520 | |||
Fixed income securities - Government and municipal bonds | 6,170 | 5,751 | |||
Fixed income securities - Mortgage-backed securities | 382 | 765 | |||
Real estate and real assets | 0 | 0 | |||
Securities lending collateral | 1,466 | 2,240 | |||
Purchased options, futures, and swaps | 3 | ||||
Receivable for variation margin | 0 | 0 | |||
Assets at fair value | 18,794 | 19,299 | |||
Investments sold short and other liabilities at fair value | (6) | (4) | |||
Total plan net assets at fair value | 18,788 | 19,295 | |||
Pension Assets And Liabilities Fair Value [Member] | Level 3 [Member] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||
Non-interest bearing cash | 0 | 0 | |||
Interest bearing cash | 0 | 0 | |||
Foreign currency contracts | 0 | 0 | |||
Equity securities - Domestic equities | 1 | 4 | |||
Equity securities - International equities | 0 | 0 | |||
Prefered Interest | 8,749 | ||||
Fixed income securities - Corporate bonds and other instruments | 4 | 2 | |||
Fixed income securities - Government and municipal bonds | 0 | 0 | |||
Fixed income securities - Mortgage-backed securities | 0 | 0 | |||
Real estate and real assets | 2,579 | 2,287 | |||
Securities lending collateral | 0 | 0 | |||
Purchased options, futures, and swaps | 0 | ||||
Receivable for variation margin | 0 | 0 | |||
Assets at fair value | 11,333 | 2,293 | |||
Investments sold short and other liabilities at fair value | 0 | 0 | |||
Total plan net assets at fair value | 11,333 | 2,293 | |||
Postretirement Assets And Liabilities Fair Value [Member] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||
Interest bearing cash | 669 | 1,317 | |||
Equity securities - Domestic equities | 753 | 866 | |||
Equity securities - International equities | 542 | 600 | |||
Fixed income securities - Corporate bonds and other instruments | 620 | 619 | |||
Fixed income securities - Government and municipal bonds | 380 | 445 | |||
Fixed income securities - Mortgage-backed securities | 283 | 309 | |||
Securities lending collateral | 63 | 120 | |||
Assets at fair value | 3,310 | 4,276 | |||
Securities lending payable and other liabilities | (74) | (121) | |||
Total plan net assets at fair value | 3,236 | 4,155 | |||
Assets held at net asset value practical expedient | |||||
Private equity funds | 79 | 102 | |||
Real estate funds | 36 | 41 | |||
Commingled funds | 973 | 1,750 | |||
Total assets held at net asset value practical expedient | 1,088 | 1,893 | |||
Other assets (liabilities) | (47) | [1] | (75) | [2] | |
Total Plan Net Assets | 4,277 | 5,973 | |||
Postretirement Assets And Liabilities Fair Value [Member] | Level 1 [Member] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||
Interest bearing cash | 45 | 603 | |||
Equity securities - Domestic equities | 745 | 857 | |||
Equity securities - International equities | 541 | 600 | |||
Fixed income securities - Corporate bonds and other instruments | 7 | 8 | |||
Fixed income securities - Government and municipal bonds | 2 | 0 | |||
Fixed income securities - Mortgage-backed securities | 0 | 0 | |||
Securities lending collateral | 0 | 0 | |||
Assets at fair value | 1,340 | 2,068 | |||
Securities lending payable and other liabilities | 0 | 0 | |||
Total plan net assets at fair value | 1,340 | 2,068 | |||
Postretirement Assets And Liabilities Fair Value [Member] | Level 2 [Member] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||
Interest bearing cash | 624 | 714 | |||
Equity securities - Domestic equities | 8 | 9 | |||
Equity securities - International equities | 0 | 0 | |||
Fixed income securities - Corporate bonds and other instruments | 602 | 607 | |||
Fixed income securities - Government and municipal bonds | 377 | 445 | |||
Fixed income securities - Mortgage-backed securities | 283 | 308 | |||
Securities lending collateral | 63 | 120 | |||
Assets at fair value | 1,957 | 2,203 | |||
Securities lending payable and other liabilities | (74) | (121) | |||
Total plan net assets at fair value | 1,883 | 2,082 | |||
Postretirement Assets And Liabilities Fair Value [Member] | Level 3 [Member] | |||||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |||||
Interest bearing cash | 0 | 0 | |||
Equity securities - Domestic equities | 0 | 0 | |||
Equity securities - International equities | 1 | 0 | |||
Fixed income securities - Corporate bonds and other instruments | 11 | 4 | |||
Fixed income securities - Government and municipal bonds | 1 | 0 | |||
Fixed income securities - Mortgage-backed securities | 0 | 1 | |||
Securities lending collateral | 0 | 0 | |||
Assets at fair value | 13 | 5 | |||
Securities lending payable and other liabilities | 0 | 0 | |||
Total plan net assets at fair value | $ 13 | $ 5 | |||
[1] | Other assets (liabilities) include amounts receivable, accounts payable and net adjustment for securities lending payable. | ||||
[2] | Other assets (liabilities) include amounts receivable and accounts payable. |
Pension And Postretirement B_13
Pension And Postretirement Benefits (Fair Value Assets Measured On Recurring Basis Unobservable Input (Level 3) Reconciliation) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | 12 Months Ended | |
Dec. 31, 2018 | Dec. 31, 2017 | |
Pension Assets [Member] | ||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||
Balance, beginning of year | $ 2,293 | $ 2,314 |
Realized gains (losses) | 120 | (72) |
Unrealized gains (losses) | (239) | 215 |
Transfers in | 9,425 | 25 |
Transfers out | (5) | (32) |
Purchases | 93 | 162 |
Sales | (354) | (319) |
Balance, end of year | 11,333 | 2,293 |
Pension Assets [Member] | Equities [Member] | ||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||
Balance, beginning of year | 4 | 1 |
Realized gains (losses) | 0 | 1 |
Unrealized gains (losses) | (408) | (2) |
Transfers in | 9,158 | 0 |
Transfers out | (4) | 0 |
Purchases | 0 | 5 |
Sales | 0 | (1) |
Balance, end of year | 8,750 | 4 |
Pension Assets [Member] | Real Estate And Real Assets [Member] | ||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||
Balance, beginning of year | 2,287 | 2,273 |
Realized gains (losses) | 120 | (73) |
Unrealized gains (losses) | 170 | 216 |
Transfers in | 266 | 25 |
Transfers out | 0 | 0 |
Purchases | 85 | 157 |
Sales | (349) | (311) |
Balance, end of year | 2,579 | 2,287 |
Postretirement Assets [Member] | ||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||
Balance, beginning of year | 5 | 26 |
Transfers in | 9 | |
Transfers out | (1) | (15) |
Purchases | 1 | 2 |
Sales | (1) | (8) |
Balance, end of year | 13 | 5 |
Postretirement Assets [Member] | Equities [Member] | ||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||
Balance, beginning of year | 0 | |
Transfers in | 1 | |
Transfers out | 0 | |
Purchases | 0 | |
Sales | 0 | |
Balance, end of year | 1 | 0 |
Postretirement Assets [Member] | Fixed Income Funds [Member] | ||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||
Balance, beginning of year | 5 | 26 |
Transfers in | 8 | |
Transfers out | (1) | (15) |
Purchases | 1 | 2 |
Sales | (1) | (8) |
Balance, end of year | 12 | 5 |
Postretirement Assets [Member] | Real Estate And Real Assets [Member] | ||
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | ||
Balance, beginning of year | 0 | |
Transfers in | 0 | |
Transfers out | 0 | |
Purchases | 0 | |
Sales | 0 | |
Balance, end of year | $ 0 | $ 0 |
Pension And Postretirement B_14
Pension And Postretirement Benefits (Estimated Future Benefit Payments) (Details) $ in Millions | Dec. 31, 2018USD ($) |
Pension Benefit [Member] | |
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |
Estimated future benefit payments under our pension and postretirement plans - 2019 | $ 5,399 |
Estimated future benefit payments under our pension and postretirement plans - 2020 | 4,835 |
Estimated future benefit payments under our pension and postretirement plans - 2021 | 4,750 |
Estimated future benefit payments under our pension and postretirement plans - 2022 | 4,642 |
Estimated future benefit payments under our pension and postretirement plans - 2023 | 4,508 |
Estimated future benefit payments under our pension and postretirement plans - Years 2024 - 2028 | 21,320 |
Postretirement Benefit [Member] | |
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] | |
Estimated future benefit payments under our pension and postretirement plans - 2019 | 1,637 |
Estimated future benefit payments under our pension and postretirement plans - 2020 | 1,633 |
Estimated future benefit payments under our pension and postretirement plans - 2021 | 1,582 |
Estimated future benefit payments under our pension and postretirement plans - 2022 | 1,515 |
Estimated future benefit payments under our pension and postretirement plans - 2023 | 1,463 |
Estimated future benefit payments under our pension and postretirement plans - Years 2024 - 2028 | $ 6,358 |
Share-Based Payments (Narrative
Share-Based Payments (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($) shares in Millions, $ in Millions | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2018 | Dec. 31, 2017 | Dec. 31, 2016 | |
Share-Based Payment [Line Items] | |||
Number of authorized shares of common stock for share-based payment arrangements (in shares) | 313 | ||
Total unrecognized compensation cost related to nonvested share-based payment arrangements granted | $ 638 | ||
Weighted-average period to recognize the cost (years) - nonvested units | 2 years 29 days | ||
Total fair value of shares vested during the year - nonvested units | $ 766 | $ 473 | $ 614 |
Cash proceeds from exercise of stock options | $ 361 | $ 33 | $ 179 |
Stock Options Under Deferred Compensation Plan [Member] | Time Warner Inc. [Member] | |||
Share-Based Payment [Line Items] | |||
Vesting period | 1 year | ||
Performance Stock Units [Member] | |||
Share-Based Payment [Line Items] | |||
Vesting period | 3 years | ||
Restricted Stock Units | Minimum Vesting Period [Member] | |||
Share-Based Payment [Line Items] | |||
Vesting period | 4 years | ||
Restricted Stock Units | Minimum Vesting Period [Member] | Time Warner Inc. [Member] | |||
Share-Based Payment [Line Items] | |||
Vesting period | 1 year | ||
Restricted Stock Units | Maximum Vesting Period [Member] | |||
Share-Based Payment [Line Items] | |||
Vesting period | 5 years | ||
Restricted Stock Units | Maximum Vesting Period [Member] | Time Warner Inc. [Member] | |||
Share-Based Payment [Line Items] | |||
Vesting period | 4 years | ||
Other Nonvested Stock Units [Member] | |||
Share-Based Payment [Line Items] | |||
Vesting period | 3 years |
Share-Based Payments (Compensat
Share-Based Payments (Compensation Cost And Valuation Assumption) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2018 | Dec. 31, 2017 | Dec. 31, 2016 | |
Share-Based Payment | |||
Performance stock units | $ 301 | $ 395 | $ 480 |
Restricted stock and stock units | 153 | 90 | 152 |
Other nonvested stock units | 4 | (5) | 21 |
Other | 5 | 0 | 0 |
Total | 463 | 480 | 653 |
Income tax benefit | $ 114 | $ 184 | $ 250 |
Share-Based Payments (Summary O
Share-Based Payments (Summary Of Nonvested Stock Units Activity) (Details) shares in Millions | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2018$ / sharesshares | |
Share-Based Payment [Line Items] | |
Beginning balance - outstanding nonvested units | shares | 29 |
Granted - nonvested units (period) | shares | 15 |
Vested - nonvested units (period) | shares | (20) |
Forfeited - nonvested units (period) | shares | (2) |
Ending balance - outstanding nonvested units | shares | 39 |
Beginning balance - weighted average exercise price of outstanding nonvested units | $ / shares | $ 38.35 |
Weighted average exercise price - granted - nonvested units | $ / shares | 35.53 |
Weighted average exercise price - vested - nonvested units | $ / shares | 38.5 |
Weighted average exercise price - forfeited nonvested units | $ / shares | 38.11 |
Ending balance - weighted average exercise price of nonvested units | $ / shares | $ 38.44 |
Time Warner Inc. [Member] | |
Share-Based Payment [Line Items] | |
Granted - nonvested units (period) | shares | 17 |
Weighted average exercise price - granted - nonvested units | $ / shares | $ 41.23 |
Stockholder Equity (Narrative)
Stockholder Equity (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Millions, $ in Millions | 1 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended | |||
Dec. 31, 2018 | Dec. 31, 2017 | Dec. 31, 2018 | Dec. 31, 2017 | Dec. 31, 2016 | |
Stockholder's Equity | |||||
Quarterly dividend amount declared per common shares (per share) | $ 0.51 | $ 0.5 | $ 2.01 | $ 1.97 | $ 1.93 |
Common Class A [Member] | Stock Repurchase Program [Member] | |||||
Equity, Class of Treasury Stock [Line Items] | |||||
Treasury Stock, Shares, Acquired | 13 | 7 | |||
Treasury Stock, Value, Acquired, Cost Method | $ 419 | $ 279 | |||
Stock Repurchase Program, Remaining Number of Shares Authorized to be Repurchased | 376 | 376 | |||
Common Class A [Member] | Stock Repurchase Program March 2014 [Member] | |||||
Equity, Class of Treasury Stock [Line Items] | |||||
Stock Repurchase Program, Number of Shares Authorized to be Repurchased | 300 | 300 | |||
Common Class A [Member] | Stock Repurchase Program March 2013 [Member] | |||||
Equity, Class of Treasury Stock [Line Items] | |||||
Stock Repurchase Program, Number of Shares Authorized to be Repurchased | 300 | 300 | |||
Series A Preferred Stock [Member] | Mobility II, LLC | |||||
Class of Stock [Line Items] | |||||
Preferred Stock, Shares Issued | 320 | 320 | |||
Preferred Stock, Dividend Payment Terms | On a cumulative basis, dividends are paid through a cash distributions of $560 per annum, subject to declaration. | ||||
Preferred Stock, Call or Exercise Features | A holder of the preferred equity interest may put the preferred equity interest to Mobility II on or after the earliest of certain events or September 9, 2020. Mobility II may redeem the preferred equity interest upon a change in control of Mobility II or on or after September 9, 2022. When either options arise due to a passage of time, that option may be exercised only during certain periods. | ||||
Preferred Stock, Redemption Terms | The price at which a put option or a redemption option can be exercised is the greater of (1) the market value of the interest as of the last date of the quarter preceding the date of the exercise of a put or redemption option and (2) the sum of (a) twenty-five dollars ($8,000 in the aggregate) plus (b) any accrued and unpaid distributions. The redemption price may be paid with cash, AT&T Inc. common stock, or a combination of cash and AT&T Inc. common stock, at Mobility II’s sole election. In no event shall Mobility II be required to deliver more than 250 million shares of AT&T common stock to settle put and redemption options. We have the intent and ability to settle the preferred equity interest with cash. So long as the distributions are declared and paid, the terms of the preferred equity interest will not impose any limitations on cash movements between affiliates, or our ability to declare a dividend on or repurchase AT&T shares. |
Sale Of Equipment Installment_3
Sale Of Equipment Installment Receivables (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | Dec. 31, 2018 | Dec. 31, 2017 |
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items] | ||
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities | $ 43,184 | $ 34,470 |
Guarantee Obligations [Member] | ||
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items] | ||
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities | 196 | 55 |
Guarantee Obligation, current | 439 | 203 |
Notes Receivable [Member] | ||
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items] | ||
Gross equipment installment receivables balance - current | 3,457 | 3,340 |
Finance Receivables [Member] | ||
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items] | ||
Other Assets | 5,994 | 6,079 |
Cash proceeds received on finance receivables, net of remittances | 6,508 | |
Other Assets [Member] | Deferred Purchase Price [Member] | ||
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items] | ||
Other Assets | 2,370 | 2,749 |
Other Current Assets [Member] | ||
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items] | ||
Outstanding derecognized receivables | 9,065 | 7,446 |
Other Current Assets [Member] | Deferred Purchase Price [Member] | ||
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items] | ||
Other Assets | $ 1,448 | $ 1,781 |
Sale Of Equipment Installment_4
Sale Of Equipment Installment Receivables (Finance Receivables) (Details) - Finance Receivables [Member] - USD ($) $ in Millions | 12 Months Ended | |||
Dec. 31, 2018 | Dec. 31, 2017 | Dec. 31, 2016 | ||
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items] | ||||
Gross receivables sold | $ 9,391 | $ 8,058 | $ 7,629 | |
Net receivables sold | [1] | 8,871 | 7,388 | 6,913 |
Cash proceeds received | 7,488 | 5,623 | 4,574 | |
Deferred purchase price recorded | 1,578 | 2,077 | 2,368 | |
Guarantee obligation recorded | $ 361 | $ 215 | $ 0 | |
[1] | Receivables net of allowance, imputed interest and trade-in right guarantees. |
Sale Of Equipment Installment_5
Sale Of Equipment Installment Receivables (Finance Receivables Repurchased) (Details) - Finance Receivables [Member] - USD ($) $ in Millions | 12 Months Ended | |||
Dec. 31, 2018 | Dec. 31, 2017 | Dec. 31, 2016 | ||
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items] | ||||
Fair value of repurchased receivables | $ 1,480 | $ 1,699 | $ 1,675 | |
Carrying value of deferred purchase price | 1,393 | 1,524 | 1,638 | |
Gain on repurchases | [1] | $ 87 | $ 175 | $ 37 |
[1] | These gains (losses) are included in “Selling, general and administrative” in the consolidated statements of income. |
Tower Transaction (Narrative) (
Tower Transaction (Narrative) (Details) $ in Millions | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2018USD ($) | Dec. 31, 2017USD ($) | Dec. 31, 2016USD ($) | |
Other Liabilities [Line Items] | |||
Property, Plant and Equipment - Net | $ 131,473 | $ 125,222 | $ 124,899 |
Depreciation expense | $ 20,102 | 19,761 | 20,661 |
Crown Castle International [Member] | |||
Other Liabilities [Line Items] | |||
Number Of Towers Subject To Failed Sale-Leaseback | 9,048 | ||
Number of towers subject to disposition (as shown) | 627 | ||
Cash from failed sale-leaseback (in millions U.S. dollars) | $ 4,827 | ||
Term of lease | 28 years | ||
Approximate fixed future purchase option price on failed sale-leaseback (in millions U.S. dollars) | $ 4,200 | ||
Minimum Leaseback Term | 10 years | ||
Property, Plant and Equipment - Net | $ 843 | 882 | |
Depreciation expense | $ 39 | $ 39 | $ 39 |
Approximate annual interest rate - financing obligation (as shown) | 3.90% | ||
Lease payments | $ 239 | ||
Minimum lease payments - 2019 | 244 | ||
Minimum lease payments - 2020 | 248 | ||
Minimum lease payments - 2021 | 253 | ||
Minimum lease payments - 2022 | 258 | ||
Minimum lease payments - 2023 | 264 | ||
Minimum lease payments - thereafter | $ 1,530 |
FirstNet (Narrative) (Details)
FirstNet (Narrative) (Details) - First Responder Network Authority [Member] $ in Millions | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2018USD ($) | |
Spectrum Licenses [Member] | |
Government Contracts Subject to Renegotiation [Line Items] | |
Estimated Network Reinvestment | After FirstNet's operating expenses are paid, we anticipate that the remaining amount, expected to be in the $15,000 range, will be reinvested into the network. |
Spectrum Licenses [Member] | Minimum [Member] | |
Government Contracts Subject to Renegotiation [Line Items] | |
First Responder Network Authority Operating Expenses | $ 75 |
Spectrum Licenses [Member] | Maximum [Member] | |
Government Contracts Subject to Renegotiation [Line Items] | |
First Responder Network Authority Operating Expenses | 100 |
First Responder Network Authority Operating Expenses Adjusted for Inflation | 3,000 |
FirstNet [Member] | |
Government Contracts Subject to Renegotiation [Line Items] | |
Refunds Due under Government Contracts | 6,500 |
Refunds received under Gov't Contract | $ 1,998 |
Number of jurisdictions opted-in to the program | 56 |
Term of Contract | 25 years |
Sustainability Payment Commitment, Amount | $ 18,000 |
Sustainability Payment, Amount | 240 |
Contractual Obligation, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract] | |
Future Sustainability Payments Due in 2019 | 120 |
Future Sustainability Payments Due in 2020 | 120 |
Future Sustainability Payments Due in 2021 | 120 |
Future Sustainability Payments Due in 2022 | 195 |
Future Sustainability Payments Due in 2023 | 195 |
Future Sustainability Payments Due 2024 and thereafter | $ 17,010 |
FirstNet [Member] | United States [Member] | |
Government Contracts Subject to Renegotiation [Line Items] | |
Number of jurisdictions opted-in to the program | 50 |
FirstNet [Member] | District of Columbia [Member] | |
Government Contracts Subject to Renegotiation [Line Items] | |
Number of jurisdictions opted-in to the program | 1 |
FirstNet [Member] | United States Territories [Member] | |
Government Contracts Subject to Renegotiation [Line Items] | |
Number of jurisdictions opted-in to the program | 5 |
Contingent Liabilities (Narrati
Contingent Liabilities (Narrative) (Details) $ in Millions | 12 Months Ended |
Dec. 31, 2018USD ($) | |
Contingent Liabilities | |
Contractual purchase obligations for 2019 | $ 16,172 |
Contractual purchase obligations for 2020 and 2021 | 18,687 |
Contractual purchase obligations for 2022 and 2023 | 10,310 |
Contractual purchase obligations for years 2024 and thereafter | $ 18,492 |
Additional Financial Informat_3
Additional Financial Information (Narrative) (Details) $ in Millions | 12 Months Ended | |||
Dec. 31, 2018USD ($) | Jan. 31, 2019 | Dec. 31, 2017USD ($) | ||
Additional Financial Information [Line Items] | ||||
Accounts payable | [1] | $ 27,018 | $ 24,439 | |
Concentration Risk [Line Items] | ||||
Approximate number of persons employed at a point in time | 268,000 | |||
Percentage of employees represented by CWA, IBEW, or other unions | 40% | |||
Vendor Financing Program [Member] | ||||
Additional Financial Information [Line Items] | ||||
Accounts payable | $ 1,984 | 927 | ||
Noncash Investing Activities | 2,162 | |||
Other Supplier Financing [Member] | ||||
Additional Financial Information [Line Items] | ||||
Accounts payable | $ 1,855 | $ 39 | ||
Workforce Subject to Collective Bargaining Arrangements [Member] | Expired Contract [Member] | Non Mobility [Member] | ||||
Concentration Risk [Line Items] | ||||
Number of employees under contracts where union may call a work stoppage | 3,300 | |||
Relevant union contract expiration year | 2,018 | |||
Workforce Subject to Collective Bargaining Arrangements [Member] | Expired Contract [Member] | Midwest Wireline [Member] | ||||
Concentration Risk [Line Items] | ||||
Number of employees under contracts where union may call a work stoppage | 8,300 | |||
Relevant union contract expiration year | 2,018 | |||
Workforce Subject to Collective Bargaining Arrangements Expiring within One Year [Member] | ||||
Concentration Risk [Line Items] | ||||
Number of employees under contracts where union may call a work stoppage | 26,000 | |||
Relevant union contract expiration year | 2,019 | |||
[1] | December 31, 2018 and 2017 balances include payables of $1,984 and $927 under our vendor financing program and $1,855 and $39 of other supplier financing, respectively. |
Additional Financial Informat_4
Additional Financial Information (Consolidated Balance Sheets) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | Dec. 31, 2018 | Dec. 31, 2017 | |
Additional Financial Information [Line Items] | |||
Customer fulfillment costs (included in Other current assets) | $ 17,704 | $ 10,757 | |
Accounts payable | [1] | 27,018 | 24,439 |
Accrued payroll and commissions | 3,379 | 2,284 | |
Current portion of employee benefit obligation | 1,464 | 1,585 | |
Accrued interest | 2,557 | 2,661 | |
Other | 8,766 | 3,501 | |
Total accounts payable and accrued liabilities | 43,184 | 34,470 | |
Customer Fulfillment Costs [Member] | |||
Additional Financial Information [Line Items] | |||
Customer fulfillment costs (included in Other current assets) | $ 4,090 | $ 3,877 | |
[1] | December 31, 2018 and 2017 balances include payables of $1,984 and $927 under our vendor financing program and $1,855 and $39 of other supplier financing, respectively. |
Additional Financial Informat_5
Additional Financial Information (Consolidated Statements Of Income) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2018 | Dec. 31, 2017 | Dec. 31, 2016 | |
Additional Financial Information [Abstract] | |||
Advertising expense | $ 5,100 | $ 3,772 | $ 3,768 |
Interest expense incurred | 8,450 | 7,203 | 5,802 |
Capitalized interest | (493) | (903) | (892) |
Total interest expense | $ 7,957 | $ 6,300 | $ 4,910 |
Additional Financial Informat_6
Additional Financial Information (Cash and Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | Dec. 31, 2018 | Dec. 31, 2017 | Dec. 31, 2016 | Dec. 31, 2015 |
Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Restricted Cash Equivalents [Abstract] | ||||
Cash and cash equivalents | $ 5,204 | $ 50,498 | $ 5,788 | $ 5,121 |
Restricted cash in Other current assets | 61 | 6 | 7 | 5 |
Restricted cash in Other Assets | 135 | 428 | 140 | 147 |
Cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash | $ 5,400 | $ 50,932 | $ 5,935 | $ 5,273 |
Additional Financial Informat_7
Additional Financial Information (Consolidated Statements Of Cash Flows) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | 12 Months Ended | ||
Dec. 31, 2018 | Dec. 31, 2017 | Dec. 31, 2016 | |
Additional Financial Information [Abstract] | |||
Interest | $ 8,818 | $ 6,622 | $ 5,696 |
Income taxes, net of refunds | $ (354) | $ 2,006 | $ 3,721 |
Quarterly Financial Informati_3
Quarterly Financial Information (Unaudited) (Quarterly Financial Results) (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Millions | 3 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended | |||||||||||||||||
Dec. 31, 2018 | Sep. 30, 2018 | Jun. 30, 2018 | Mar. 31, 2018 | Dec. 31, 2017 | Sep. 30, 2017 | Jun. 30, 2017 | Mar. 31, 2017 | Dec. 31, 2018 | Dec. 31, 2017 | Dec. 31, 2016 | |||||||||
Quarterly Financial Information (Unaudited) | |||||||||||||||||||
Total operating revenues | $ 47,993 | [1] | $ 45,739 | $ 38,986 | [1] | $ 38,038 | [1] | $ 41,676 | [1],[2] | $ 39,668 | $ 39,837 | [1] | $ 39,365 | $ 170,756 | $ 160,546 | $ 163,786 | |||
Operating Income | 6,160 | [1] | 7,269 | 6,466 | [1] | 6,201 | [1] | 1,281 | [1],[2] | 5,807 | 6,526 | [1] | 6,356 | 26,096 | 19,970 | 23,543 | |||
Net Income | 5,130 | [1] | 4,816 | 5,248 | [1] | 4,759 | [1] | 19,136 | [1],[2] | 3,123 | 4,014 | [1] | 3,574 | 19,953 | 29,847 | 13,333 | |||
Net Income attributable to AT&T | $ 4,858 | [1] | $ 4,718 | $ 5,132 | [1] | $ 4,662 | [1] | $ 19,037 | [1],[2] | $ 3,029 | $ 3,915 | [1] | $ 3,469 | $ 19,370 | $ 29,450 | $ 12,976 | |||
Basic Earnings Per Share Attributable to AT&T | $ 0.66 | [3] | $ 0.65 | [3] | $ 0.81 | [3] | $ 0.75 | [3] | $ 3.08 | [3] | $ 0.49 | [3] | $ 0.63 | [3] | $ 0.56 | [3] | $ 2.85 | $ 4.77 | $ 2.1 |
Diluted Earnings Per Share Attributable to AT&T | 0.66 | [3] | 0.65 | [3] | 0.81 | [3] | 0.75 | [3] | 3.08 | [3] | 0.49 | [3] | 0.63 | [3] | 0.56 | [3] | 2.85 | 4.76 | $ 2.1 |
Sale of Stock Price Per Share [Line Items] | |||||||||||||||||||
Stock Price Per Share | 28.54 | 33.58 | 32.11 | 35.65 | 38.88 | 39.17 | 37.73 | 41.55 | 28.54 | 38.88 | |||||||||
High | |||||||||||||||||||
Sale of Stock Price Per Share [Line Items] | |||||||||||||||||||
Stock Price Per Share | 34.3 | 34.28 | 36.39 | 39.29 | 39.51 | 39.41 | 41.69 | 43.02 | 34.3 | 39.51 | |||||||||
Low | |||||||||||||||||||
Sale of Stock Price Per Share [Line Items] | |||||||||||||||||||
Stock Price Per Share | $ 26.8 | $ 30.13 | $ 31.17 | $ 34.44 | $ 32.86 | $ 35.59 | $ 37.46 | $ 40.61 | $ 26.8 | $ 32.86 | |||||||||
[1] | Includes actuarial gains and losses on pension and postretirement benefit plans (Note 14). | ||||||||||||||||||
[2] | Includes an asset abandonment charge (Note 7) and the impact of federal corporate income tax reform (Note 13). | ||||||||||||||||||
[3] | Quarterly earnings per share impacts may not add to full-year earnings per share impacts due to the difference in weighted-average common shares for the quarters versus the weighted-average common shares for the year. |
Valuation And Qualifying Acco_3
Valuation And Qualifying Accounts (Allowance For Doubtful Accounts) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | 12 Months Ended | |||
Dec. 31, 2018 | Dec. 31, 2017 | Dec. 31, 2016 | ||
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts [Member] | ||||
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items] | ||||
Balance at Beginning of Period | $ 663 | $ 661 | $ 704 | |
Charged to Costs and Expenses | [1] | 1,791 | 1,642 | 1,474 |
Charged to Other Accounts | [2] | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Acquisitions | [3] | 179 | 0 | 0 |
Deductions | [4] | 1,726 | 1,640 | 1,517 |
Balance at End of Period | 907 | 663 | 661 | |
Allowance of Deferred Tax Assets [Member] | ||||
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items] | ||||
Balance at Beginning of Period | 4,640 | 2,283 | 2,141 | |
Charged to Costs and Expenses | (210) | 2,376 | 81 | |
Charged to Other Accounts | [5] | (53) | (19) | 61 |
Acquisitions | [3] | 211 | 0 | 0 |
Deductions | [6] | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Balance at End of Period | $ 4,588 | $ 4,640 | $ 2,283 | |
[1] | (a) Includes amounts previously written off which were credited directly to this account when recovered. Excludes direct charges and credits to expense for nontrade receivables in the consolidated statements of income. | |||
[2] | (b) Includes amounts related to long-distance carrier receivables which were billed by AT&T. | |||
[3] | (c) Acqusition of Time Warner in 2018. | |||
[4] | (d) Amounts written off as uncollectible, or related to divested entities. | |||
[5] | (a) Includes current year reclassifications from other balance sheet accounts. | |||
[6] | (c) Reductions to valuation allowances related to deferred tax assets. |