Charter Communications

Charter Communications, Inc. operates as a broadband connectivity and cable operator company serving residential and commercial customers in the United States. The company offers subscription-based internet, video, mobile and voice services; a suite of broadband connectivity services, including fixed internet, WiFi, and mobile; a security suite that protects computers from viruses and spyware, and threats from malicious actors; in-home WiFi, which provides customers with high-performance wireless routers and managed WiFi services to enhance their fixed wireless internet experience; out-of-home WiFi; and Spectrum WiFi services.

The company also offers voice communications services using voice over internet protocol technology; and broadband communications solutions, such as internet access, data networking, fibre connectivity, video entertainment, and business telephone services to cellular towers and office buildings for business and carrier organizations. In addition, it provides mobile services; video programming, static IP and business WiFi, and e-mail and security services; sells local advertising across various platforms for networks, such as TBS, CNN, and ESPN; sells advertising inventory to local sports and news channels; and offers Audience App to create data-driven linear TV campaigns for local advertisers.

Further, the company offers communications products and managed service solutions; data connectivity services to mobile and wireline carriers on a wholesale basis; and owns and operates regional sports and news networks.

It serves approximately 32 million customers in 41 states. The company was founded in 1993 and is headquartered in Stamford, Connecticut.

In the early 1980s, Charter Communications CATV systems emerged onto the scene as a cable television provider, founded by Charles H. Leonard in Barry County, Michigan. Leonard's vision led to a corporate partnership with Gary Wilcox and Gerry Kazma, both hailing from Naperville, Illinois. This partnership facilitated the merging of Spectrum Communications and Charter Systems between 1981 and 1983.

As time went on, Charter Communications experienced growth through strategic mergers and acquisitions. In 1993, the company underwent consolidation under the leadership of Barry Babcock, Jerald Kent, and Howard Wood, who had previously served as executives at Cencom Cable Television in St. Louis, Missouri. This milestone coincided with Charter's incorporation in the state of Missouri.

Continuing its expansion, Charter made significant moves in 1995 by acquiring a controlling interest in cable television systems owned by Crown Media Holdings. Additionally, Charter added Cable South to its portfolio. Two years later, in 1997, Charter teamed up with EarthLink to provide high-speed Internet access to its customers in Los Angeles and Riverside, California.

A turning point for Charter Communications came in 1998 when Paul Allen, a prominent business figure, acquired a controlling interest in the company. This purchase enabled Charter to make a noteworthy acquisition of Dallas-based cable company Marcus Cable for a substantial $2.8 billion. By the end of 1998, Charter boasted an impressive customer base of one million subscribers.

In November 1999, Charter Communications went public, marking a significant milestone as it began trading on the NASDAQ stock exchange. At the time of its initial public offering, Charter already served 3.9 million customers, a testament to its rapid growth.

In 2003, Charter Communications and Megacomm merged, forming Charter Communications Holdings LLC. In 2005, Charter completed a merger with Time Warner Cable, which added to its subscriber base and expanded its reach. Shortly after the merger, Comcast Corporation acquired several of Charter's assets.

In 2009, Paul Allen's Vulcan Capital made a significant investment in Charter, giving Allen control of the company. Following this move, Charter Communications began to focus heavily on growing its business and expanding its services.

In 2012, Charter Communications acquired two cable companies, Bright House Networks and Insight Communications. This acquisition made Charter the second-largest cable operator in the United States.

In 2016, Charter Communications and Time Warner Cable officially merged, forming Spectrum. The merger allowed Charter to become one of the most recognizable names in cable and internet services. Today, Charter Communications provides services under the brand name Spectrum, offering cable television, internet, and telephone services to consumers and businesses.

In the post-Time Warner Cable acquisition era, Charter Communications continued its corporate endeavours. In January 2017, reports emerged of discussions between Charter and Verizon Communications regarding a potential buyout. However, Liberty Media, Charter's largest shareholder, and CEO Greg Maffei expressed disinterest in the deal, leading to its rejection in May 2017. Charter cited the offer as inadequate, while Liberty Media clarified its lack of readiness to sell.

Charter and Comcast entered into an agreement to explore collaboration in the wireless space, particularly concerning mobile virtual network operators (MVNOs). Both companies had existing agreements with Verizon Wireless to resell their services, and Comcast announced its upcoming venture, Xfinity Mobile, later that year. The agreement between Charter and Comcast included a provision that required mutual consent before engaging in wireless-related acquisitions or mergers, valid for one year.

In April 2019, Charter agreed to new conditions set by the NYPSC, requiring completion of its expansion to an additional 145,000 premises by September 30, 2021. These premises must be located outside of New York City and must adhere to milestone requirements. Charter was also obligated to contribute $12 million to a fund aimed at broadband expansion projects, with half of the funding allocated via a competitive bidding process to either Charter or a competitor.

In April 2022, Charter Communications and Comcast announced their plans for a joint 50/50 venture to develop a streaming platform. As part of this endeavour, Comcast would license its Flex streaming platform and provide access to the XClass TVs and Xumo streaming service.

Charter Communications' mission is to provide high-quality telecommunications and mass media services that enable its customers to stay connected and engaged with the world around them. The company is committed to offering reliable and affordable services, including cable television, high-speed internet, and voice services.

Charter Communications recognizes the importance of connectivity in today's world, and its mission is focused on delivering services that allow its customers to stay connected with their families, friends, and communities. The company is dedicated to delivering the best possible customer experience, which includes providing fast and reliable service, exceptional customer support, and innovative products and services.

In addition to its commitment to customer service, Charter Communications is also dedicated to giving back to the communities it serves. The company supports a range of charitable organizations and community initiatives through its philanthropic arm, the Charter Communications Community Impact Program. The program is focused on providing resources and support to organizations that promote education, digital literacy, and community revitalization.

Charter Communications' vision is to be a leading provider of advanced communications and entertainment services, offering a wide range of products and services to connect customers to what matters most. The company is committed to using the latest technologies and advancements in the industry to develop innovative products and services that meet the evolving needs of its customers. 

Charter Communications' vision also includes a commitment to responsible and secure use of its technologies and services. The company recognizes that technology plays an increasingly important role in people's lives and understands the need to protect customer privacy and security in this rapidly evolving landscape. Charter Communications is committed to developing and implementing industry-leading security and privacy practices to ensure its customers can use its products and services with confidence and trust.

In addition to its commitment to innovation, Charter Communications also places a strong emphasis on community involvement and corporate social responsibility. The company's vision includes working closely with its communities to make a positive impact and to give back to the places where it operates. Through partnerships and initiatives, Charter Communications is committed to improving the quality of life in the communities it serves.

Charter Communications, operating under the brand name Spectrum, offers a wide range of products and services to both consumers and businesses.

• Television Services: Charter Communications offers a variety of cable TV packages to meet the entertainment needs of its customers. The company's TV services include access to thousands of channels, On Demand programming, DVR and HD options.
• Internet Services: Spectrum provides high-speed internet services to its customers with speeds ranging from 100 Mbps to 940 Mbps. Customers can also access Wi-Fi hotspots throughout the country, and there are no data caps or usage limits.
• Voice Services: Spectrum also offers voice services, including home phone and mobile phone options. These services come with features such as unlimited calling and advanced call management.
• Mobile Services: Charter Communications also offers mobile phone plans under the Spectrum Mobile brand. These plans come with unlimited data, talk, and text, and the company also offers discounts for customers who bundle their mobile plans with other Spectrum services.
• Home Security: Spectrum provides home security solutions with 24/7 professional monitoring and a range of home security devices such as cameras, sensors, and alarms.
• Business Services: Charter Communications also provides a range of business services, including high-speed internet, voice services, cloud-based services, and video services for businesses of all sizes.