AT&T Internet Air won't be available in New York starting March

AT&T has announced that its Internet Air service will be blowing out of New York State for good. The company has decided to pull the plug on its 5G home internet service, citing new state regulations that make it uneconomical to continue operations. Starting March 1, 2025, New Yorkers will have to look elsewhere for their internet fix.

So, what’s causing this shift in the winds? It turns out, New York’s recent legislation requires internet providers to offer affordable broadband options. Specifically, the law mandates monthly rates of $15 for 25Mbps or $20 for 200Mbps for low-income residents. While this is great news for consumers seeking budget-friendly options, it seems AT&T isn’t on board with the financial implications.

AT&T explained its position in a statement, saying, “While we are committed to providing reliable and affordable internet service to customers across the country, New York’s broadband law imposes harmful rate regulations that make it uneconomical for AT&T to invest in and expand our broadband infrastructure in the state.” As a result, AT&T Internet Air will be no more in the Empire State.

Existing customers of AT&T Internet Air won’t be left high and dry immediately. The company is offering a 45-day grace period from January 15 to March 1, 2025, during which users can continue enjoying the service free of charge. This gives them ample time to transition to a new provider.

In a bid to ease the transition, AT&T is committed to providing clear instructions on how to return their equipment. They’re also keeping their wireless services intact, so customers can still rely on AT&T for their mobile needs.

This move follows the federal Affordable Connectivity Program running out of funds last year. That program had provided significant discounts on internet services for millions of households. New York’s new broadband law, initially passed in 2021 and green-lit by the courts last year, aims to fill that void but has clearly met resistance from major players like AT&T.

AT&T’s exit from the home internet market in New York highlights the tension between regulatory efforts to make broadband more affordable and the business realities faced by providers. While AT&T says it’s focused on supporting policies that promote investment and competition, the immediate fallout leaves a gap for consumers to fill.

As the March 1 deadline approaches, New Yorkers will need to explore alternative options for their home internet needs. Whether other providers will step up to fill the void left by AT&T remains to be seen. In the meantime, AT&T customers can reach out to the company for support and guidance during this transition period. And while Internet Air may be floating away, AT&T assures that its wireless services are here to stay, keeping New Yorkers connected on the go.

AT&T also recently discontinued AT&T Messages for Tablet and the AT&T Messages Backup & Sync services.