Charter Finalizes $34.5-Billion Cox Takeover, Expands Spectrum Service

By the Editorial Team · Sunday, September 20, 2026

Charter Communications has finalized its $34.5 billion acquisition of Cox Communications, adding millions of subscribers and becoming the largest broadband and cable TV provider in the U.S. The merger enables expanded service offerings, restores long-absent sports channels like SportsNet LA, and includes commitments to affordable broadband access and substantial network upgrades in California.

Charter Communications has completed its $34.5 billion acquisition of Cox Communications, significantly expanding its customer base in Southern California and other regions. The deal, finalized early Thursday, adds millions of internet and television subscribers to Charter’s existing portfolio, which now includes more than 35 million customers nationwide, solidifying its position as the largest broadband internet and cable television provider in the United States.

The transition to Charter’s Spectrum service will begin by mid-September for Cox customers in areas previously served by the Atlanta-based company. Subscribers in Santa Barbara, Palos Verdes, Orange County, San Diego, and Las Vegas will benefit immediately from the restoration of SportsNet LA, the Dodgers-owned channel, which has been absent from Cox’s lineup for over a decade due to disputes over licensing fees. This move ends one of the longest-running sports broadcasting blackouts, allowing fans access to most of the Los Angeles Dodgers’ regular season games for the first time in years.

Charter’s CEO, Chris Winfrey, emphasized the company’s commitment to providing competitive products and enhanced customer service across its expanded footprint, which now spans 45 states. Cox customers will have the option to maintain their current pricing and packages or switch to new Spectrum bundles that include popular streaming apps such as Disney+, Hulu, ESPN, AMC+, and Paramount+.

The company also announced plans to incentivize Cox subscribers to transition their cellphone service to Spectrum by offering one year of free service for those who make the switch.

The merger was approved unanimously last week by the California Public Utilities Commission, the last regulatory hurdle after federal authorities granted their approval several months prior. As part of the agreement with California regulators, Charter has committed to offering affordable broadband options for low-income residents through programs like California LifeLine for a five-year period. The company also pledged to invest at least $275 million in network upgrades across California, aiming to achieve 1-gigabit internet service capabilities throughout its Spectrum service areas within the next three years.

Charter portrays the transition as a smooth and measured process, assuring customers and employees that existing Cox service and pricing will remain unchanged unless customers decide to modify their plans voluntarily. The acquisition reflects the ongoing consolidation trend in the telecommunications industry and Charter’s strategy to broaden its market presence while enhancing service offerings.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.