US telco Verizon is acquiring US ISP Starry Internet.

Verizon Communications this week announced a definitive agreement to acquire Starry. Terms of the deal were not shared, but it is expected to close in Q1 2026.

The incumbent telco said the deal increases its ability to deliver high-speed internet to multi-dwelling units (MDUs) and urban communities, leveraging Starry’s millimeter wave technology.

Joe Russo, EVP and president, global networks and technology, at Verizon, said: "Starry has demonstrated a unique and efficient approach to delivering high-speed Internet in complex MDU environments. By integrating their technology and expertise, we will accelerate our fixed wireless access capabilities, giving millions of new customers a powerful and affordable broadband option. This architecture is less expensive to build, quicker to deploy, and uniquely addresses the complexities of urban settings where we can leverage our existing fiber and mmWave assets."

Founded in 2014, Starry provides fixed wireless broadband to residential and small and medium-sized businesses from towers and rooftops. Launching in Boston in 2016, the firm aimed to offer gigabit speeds via its wireless mmWave technology.

The company filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in February 2023, just a year after it completed a special purpose acquisition company merger with FirstMark Horizon Acquisition Corp. It emerged from proceedings in September of the same year as a privately-held company. It also exited Columbus, Ohio, in 2023.

Verizon said Starry currently serves nearly 100,000 MDU customers in five markets: Boston, New York, Los Angeles, Denver, and Washington DC. The acquiring company added that Starry’s MDU network provides a significant opportunity to expand Verizon’s FWA footprint.

Guggenheim Securities, LLC acted as exclusive financial advisor to Starry.