US wireless carriers name Paul Roth interim CEO for satellite connectivity venture

WASHINGTON: AT&T, T-Mobile and Verizon have appointed wireless industry veteran Paul Roth as interim chief executive of their new joint venture aimed at expanding satellite-enabled mobile coverage, the companies said on Thursday.

The largest U.S. wireless companies said the venture — first announced in May — seeks to expand coverage in underserved areas across the U.S and end nearly all dead zones without mobile service. The plan also aims to ensure redundant connectivity during natural disasters and improved network performance using so-called “direct to device” satellite ​technology.