Latest news with #JasonBateman
CNN
3 days ago
- Business
- CNN
Why it suddenly seems like every celebrity has their own mobile network
Celebrities have long put their names on everything from shoes to cosmetics to snacks. Now, they're attaching their brand to mobile phone networks. Trump Mobile, announced on Monday, is the latest cellular service pegged to a high-profile figure, joining the likes of wireless services from actors such as Jason Bateman and Ryan Reynolds. Major carriers are no longer the only ones cashing in on the airwaves that power the devices in our pockets. Comedians, sports teams and retailers have launched their own mobile networks as the technology has become more accessible to companies outside the telecoms sp Instead of building their own networks, these providers — known as mobile virtual network operators (MVNOs) — lease spectrum from major carriers like Verizon, AT&T and T-Mobile. That makes it easier for anyone to launch their own network so long as they can buy the bandwidth to power it, while providing another way for major carriers to monetize their networks. MVNO networks aren't new; Virgin Group founder and entrepreneur Richard Branson launched Virgin Mobile – an MVNO – in 1999. But the recent wave of celebrity-fronted MVNOs likely stems from a couple of trends: a decrease in loyalty to major carriers; technology that facilitates business operations like customer support and billing; and the prevalence of electronic SIM cards that make it easier for consumers to switch plans and carrier services. Consumers are more faithful to their phones than they are to their carriers, said Michael Levin, an analyst with Consumer Intelligence Research Partners, a firm that studies consumer behavior in the mobile carrier market. That could explain why customers are willing to ditch their legacy carrier for something new. 'The technology made it a little easier to switch. And at the same time, consumers became a lot more loyal to the phone manufacturer,' he said. 'And then the carrier was kind of less important.' Trump Mobile, like other MVNOs, is pitching itself as a more accessible alternative to the big three carriers, Verizon, AT&T and T-Mobile. For $47.45 a month (plus applicable taxes and fees), subscribers get unlimited data, talk and texting, although data speeds are slowed after the first 20GB. Telehealth services and roadside assistance are also included. 'A big part of what we've done … has been focused on technology for people who have been underserved, whether that's been in crypto or anything else, but one of the places where we felt there was lackluster performance was in the mobile industry,' Donald Trump Jr. said an event at Trump Tower in New York on Monday. The launch comes after actors Jason Bateman, Will Arnett and Sean Hayes last week launched a mobile service called SmartLess Mobile, named after the trio's popular podcast. SmartLess Mobile is intended to provide cheap capped data plans for consumers, since many people spend most of their time on Wi-Fi networks, SmartLess Mobile CEO Paul McAleese previously told CNN. 'Deadpool' actor Ryan Reynolds purchased an ownership stake in MVNO Mint Mobile in 2019. He's been the face of the network since then, even though T-Mobile bought the carrier for $1.35 billion in 2023. While AT&T, Verizon and T-Mobile are the dominant players in the US mobile market, there is some data to suggest MVNO networks are growing. Consultancy group Opensignal found that MVNOs are consistently gaining more bring-your-own-device subscribers than they lose, unlike traditional network providers. Even though plans from MVNOs may not always be cheaper than those from mainstream carriers, they often offer compelling promotions. 'You get this very exciting offer, for example: three months at $15 a month. But thereafter then you go back to $45,' said Octavio Garcia, a senior research analyst at market research firm Forrester. 'But when you are done with three months, there is a new offer that brings you down to $30, not $45.' These kinds of mobile networks might feel like a relatively new trend in the United States, but they're common abroad, according to Garcia and Runar Bjørhovde, an analyst at market research firm Canalys. Walmart Mexico's Bait MVNO network, for example, has 19.8 million users, according to the company's first quarter results released in April. In Italy, there's a mobile network branded after the AC Milan soccer team. There's also been a rise in 'MVNO-in-a-box services,' or companies that provide a package of offerings like electronic SIM distribution, network access and billing to help clients set up their own MVNO networks. These types of services are growing, with Juniper Research estimating that global revenue from MVNO-in-a-box services will surpass $1 billion in 2029. 'To see that it's easier to set up MVNO as a smaller company, I think it's a sign of a telecom industry that's moving in a certain direction,' said Bjørhovde.
CNN
3 days ago
- Business
- CNN
Why it suddenly seems like every celebrity has their own mobile network
Celebrities have long put their names on everything from shoes to cosmetics to snacks. Now, they're attaching their brand to mobile phone networks. Trump Mobile, announced on Monday, is the latest cellular service pegged to a high-profile figure, joining the likes of wireless services from actors such as Jason Bateman and Ryan Reynolds. Major carriers are no longer the only ones cashing in on the airwaves that power the devices in our pockets. Comedians, sports teams and retailers have launched their own mobile networks as the technology has become more accessible to companies outside the telecoms sp Instead of building their own networks, these providers — known as mobile virtual network operators (MVNOs) — lease spectrum from major carriers like Verizon, AT&T and T-Mobile. That makes it easier for anyone to launch their own network so long as they can buy the bandwidth to power it, while providing another way for major carriers to monetize their networks. MVNO networks aren't new; Virgin Group founder and entrepreneur Richard Branson launched Virgin Mobile – an MVNO – in 1999. But the recent wave of celebrity-fronted MVNOs likely stems from a couple of trends: a decrease in loyalty to major carriers; technology that facilitates business operations like customer support and billing; and the prevalence of electronic SIM cards that make it easier for consumers to switch plans and carrier services. Consumers are more faithful to their phones than they are to their carriers, said Michael Levin, an analyst with Consumer Intelligence Research Partners, a firm that studies consumer behavior in the mobile carrier market. That could explain why customers are willing to ditch their legacy carrier for something new. 'The technology made it a little easier to switch. And at the same time, consumers became a lot more loyal to the phone manufacturer,' he said. 'And then the carrier was kind of less important.' Trump Mobile, like other MVNOs, is pitching itself as a more accessible alternative to the big three carriers, Verizon, AT&T and T-Mobile. For $47.45 a month (plus applicable taxes and fees), subscribers get unlimited data, talk and texting, although data speeds are slowed after the first 20GB. Telehealth services and roadside assistance are also included. 'A big part of what we've done … has been focused on technology for people who have been underserved, whether that's been in crypto or anything else, but one of the places where we felt there was lackluster performance was in the mobile industry,' Donald Trump Jr. said an event at Trump Tower in New York on Monday. The launch comes after actors Jason Bateman, Will Arnett and Sean Hayes last week launched a mobile service called SmartLess Mobile, named after the trio's popular podcast. SmartLess Mobile is intended to provide cheap capped data plans for consumers, since many people spend most of their time on Wi-Fi networks, SmartLess Mobile CEO Paul McAleese previously told CNN. 'Deadpool' actor Ryan Reynolds purchased an ownership stake in MVNO Mint Mobile in 2019. He's been the face of the network since then, even though T-Mobile bought the carrier for $1.35 billion in 2023. While AT&T, Verizon and T-Mobile are the dominant players in the US mobile market, there is some data to suggest MVNO networks are growing. Consultancy group Opensignal found that MVNOs are consistently gaining more bring-your-own-device subscribers than they lose, unlike traditional network providers. Even though plans from MVNOs may not always be cheaper than those from mainstream carriers, they often offer compelling promotions. 'You get this very exciting offer, for example: three months at $15 a month. But thereafter then you go back to $45,' said Octavio Garcia, a senior research analyst at market research firm Forrester. 'But when you are done with three months, there is a new offer that brings you down to $30, not $45.' These kinds of mobile networks might feel like a relatively new trend in the United States, but they're common abroad, according to Garcia and Runar Bjørhovde, an analyst at market research firm Canalys. Walmart Mexico's Bait MVNO network, for example, has 19.8 million users, according to the company's first quarter results released in April. In Italy, there's a mobile network branded after the AC Milan soccer team. There's also been a rise in 'MVNO-in-a-box services,' or companies that provide a package of offerings like electronic SIM distribution, network access and billing to help clients set up their own MVNO networks. These types of services are growing, with Juniper Research estimating that global revenue from MVNO-in-a-box services will surpass $1 billion in 2029. 'To see that it's easier to set up MVNO as a smaller company, I think it's a sign of a telecom industry that's moving in a certain direction,' said Bjørhovde.
CNN
3 days ago
- Business
- CNN
Why it suddenly seems like every celebrity has their own mobile network
Celebrities have long put their names on everything from shoes to cosmetics to snacks. Now, they're attaching their brand to mobile phone networks. Trump Mobile, announced on Monday, is the latest cellular service pegged to a high-profile figure, joining the likes of wireless services from actors such as Jason Bateman and Ryan Reynolds. Major carriers are no longer the only ones cashing in on the airwaves that power the devices in our pockets. Comedians, sports teams and retailers have launched their own mobile networks as the technology has become more accessible to companies outside the telecoms sp Instead of building their own networks, these providers — known as mobile virtual network operators (MVNOs) — lease spectrum from major carriers like Verizon, AT&T and T-Mobile. That makes it easier for anyone to launch their own network so long as they can buy the bandwidth to power it, while providing another way for major carriers to monetize their networks. MVNO networks aren't new; Virgin Group founder and entrepreneur Richard Branson launched Virgin Mobile – an MVNO – in 1999. But the recent wave of celebrity-fronted MVNOs likely stems from a couple of trends: a decrease in loyalty to major carriers; technology that facilitates business operations like customer support and billing; and the prevalence of electronic SIM cards that make it easier for consumers to switch plans and carrier services. Consumers are more faithful to their phones than they are to their carriers, said Michael Levin, an analyst with Consumer Intelligence Research Partners, a firm that studies consumer behavior in the mobile carrier market. That could explain why customers are willing to ditch their legacy carrier for something new. 'The technology made it a little easier to switch. And at the same time, consumers became a lot more loyal to the phone manufacturer,' he said. 'And then the carrier was kind of less important.' Trump Mobile, like other MVNOs, is pitching itself as a more accessible alternative to the big three carriers, Verizon, AT&T and T-Mobile. For $47.45 a month (plus applicable taxes and fees), subscribers get unlimited data, talk and texting, although data speeds are slowed after the first 20GB. Telehealth services and roadside assistance are also included. 'A big part of what we've done … has been focused on technology for people who have been underserved, whether that's been in crypto or anything else, but one of the places where we felt there was lackluster performance was in the mobile industry,' Donald Trump Jr. said an event at Trump Tower in New York on Monday. The launch comes after actors Jason Bateman, Will Arnett and Sean Hayes last week launched a mobile service called SmartLess Mobile, named after the trio's popular podcast. SmartLess Mobile is intended to provide cheap capped data plans for consumers, since many people spend most of their time on Wi-Fi networks, SmartLess Mobile CEO Paul McAleese previously told CNN. 'Deadpool' actor Ryan Reynolds purchased an ownership stake in MVNO Mint Mobile in 2019. He's been the face of the network since then, even though T-Mobile bought the carrier for $1.35 billion in 2023. While AT&T, Verizon and T-Mobile are the dominant players in the US mobile market, there is some data to suggest MVNO networks are growing. Consultancy group Opensignal found that MVNOs are consistently gaining more bring-your-own-device subscribers than they lose, unlike traditional network providers. Even though plans from MVNOs may not always be cheaper than those from mainstream carriers, they often offer compelling promotions. 'You get this very exciting offer, for example: three months at $15 a month. But thereafter then you go back to $45,' said Octavio Garcia, a senior research analyst at market research firm Forrester. 'But when you are done with three months, there is a new offer that brings you down to $30, not $45.' These kinds of mobile networks might feel like a relatively new trend in the United States, but they're common abroad, according to Garcia and Runar Bjørhovde, an analyst at market research firm Canalys. Walmart Mexico's Bait MVNO network, for example, has 19.8 million users, according to the company's first quarter results released in April. In Italy, there's a mobile network branded after the AC Milan soccer team. There's also been a rise in 'MVNO-in-a-box services,' or companies that provide a package of offerings like electronic SIM distribution, network access and billing to help clients set up their own MVNO networks. These types of services are growing, with Juniper Research estimating that global revenue from MVNO-in-a-box services will surpass $1 billion in 2029. 'To see that it's easier to set up MVNO as a smaller company, I think it's a sign of a telecom industry that's moving in a certain direction,' said Bjørhovde.
Yahoo
14-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Disney Sneak Peeks ‘Zootopia 2' at Annecy: Announces Studio Return of ‘The Little Mermaid,' ‘Aladdin,' ‘Moana' Director Ron Clements
At the Annecy Animation Festival this Friday morning, Walt Disney Animation Studios offered a first look at its highly anticipated sequel, 'Zootopia 2,' coming to theaters on Nov. 26. Walt Disney Animation Studios chief creative officer and director/writer of the upcoming 'Zootopia 2,' Jared Bush, made his first appearance in Annecy to delight the Bonlieu audience with new footage and images from the upcoming sequel to the beloved Oscar-winning film. More from Variety Laika Unveils New 'ParaNorman' Short Starring Anna Kendrick and Finn Wolfhard: Original Feature Getting Halloween Re-Release 'High in the Clouds' Shares Original Music, Early Art and a Beatles Reunion in Annecy Sneak Peek Adult Swim, Cartoon Network Studios, Sneak Peek Genndy Tartakovsky's 'Heist Safari' 'Over the last few months, I've been thinking a lot about this moment,' Bush told the audience. 'Being here with all of you, like all of us, together in this amazing global community of artists and dreamers who love animation. We all live for it.' A crowd consisting of industry vets, studio execs and several hundred artists and students responded with laughs, audible 'awws' and tremendous excitement to the footage, which featured returning characters Judy Hopps (Ginnifer Goodwin), Nick Wilde (Jason Bateman) and Mr. Big (Maurice LaMarche), and new characters Gary De'Snake (Ke Huy Quan), Nibbles (Fortune Feimster) and Dr. Fuzzby (Quinta Brunson). 'Nick and Judy are now Zootopia Police Department's newest rookie cop partners,' Bush said. 'But the question of this movie is whether these two animals, who are so different, really have what it takes to stay together in the long run. In other words, if the first movie was like their honeymoon, this movie is what moving in feels like.' The largely French audience was particularly thrilled to find out that iconic French actor Jean Reno will lend his voice to a cameo role as an officer of the Zootopia Police Department. Bush introduced a variety of new environments and characters in the sequel, including Marsh Market, 'one of the most immersive environments that we've ever created,' and a buff, actor-turned-politician stallion named Mayor Wind Dancer. He also confirmed the return of fan favorites: 'Chief Bogo will be back. Clawhauser. Gazelle. Mayor Bellwether. That naked yak. Judy's 278 brothers and sisters. Mr. Big and his daughter Fru Fru. And of course, Flash.' Footage shown at Annecy included the duo's troubled undercover operation, their eccentric therapy sessions with Dr. Fuzzby, and a fast-paced chase involving Gary the Snake. 'Nick and Judy become fugitives, which puts a little strain on their relationship,' Bush said. 'So how will they set things right?' In describing the larger thematic arc, Bush emphasized, 'Ultimately, our mismatched pair of a bunny and a fox shows us that even in a polarized world where our differences so often push us apart, sometimes just simply trying to understand each other and talk to each other can be the thing that allows us to mend our broken world together.' As part of today's presentation, Disney legendary director Ron Clements ('The Little Mermaid,' 'Aladdin,' 'The Princess and the Frog,' 'Moana') was inaugurated into Annecy's Walk of Fame. 'This is so cool,' Clements said. 'It's such an honor to be memorialized this way. Unbelievable. So thank you. Thank you with all my heart. I am very, very appreciative.' In addition to the honorific event, it was also revealed that Clements is returning to Walt Disney Studios Animation in an advisory role. 'I really have been enjoying retirement,' he said, 'but I'm excited about just returning to kind of mentor… There aren't as many old people around as there used to be, and there certainly are so many young people who want to work in animation.' Bush, who announced Clements' return, said, 'I've actually unretired a very important person here, Ron Clements, who's coming back to the studio. Ron is one of the reasons that I do what I do… The legacy he helped build is the foundation we walk on.' Ron Clements addressed this sense of legacy and purpose during a special conversation with Bush and Variety's Peter Debruge. Recalling his own animation origin story, Clements said, 'I was nine years old… and I saw a reissue of 'Pinocchio' in our local theater. I couldn't get it out of my mind… I decided at that point that I wanted to be an animator, and I wanted to work for Walt Disney.' Bush added that 'The Jungle Book' and 'The Little Mermaid' were his childhood inspirations. 'Just wanting to be a part of that kind of storytelling legacy was really important,' he said. 'To be honest, I never knew that it was possible to join Disney Animation… let alone run it. That was never even a dream I let myself have.' Now at the helm of Disney Animation, Bush affirmed his priorities: 'There are three things I believe define our path forward. First is joy and imagination… Second, this deep collaboration… And lastly, we are committed to always swinging for the fences.' Best of Variety New Movies Out Now in Theaters: What to See This Week 'Harry Potter' TV Show Cast Guide: Who's Who in Hogwarts? 25 Hollywood Legends Who Deserve an Honorary Oscar
CNN
11-06-2025
- Entertainment
- CNN
Harris Yulin, prolific stage and screen actor of ‘Ghostbusters II' fame, dead at 87
Actor Harris Yulin, an Emmy-nominated actor who appeared in projects including 'Frasier' and 'Ghostbusters II,' has died. He was 87. The news was confirmed by Yulin's manager Sue Leibman, who said in an email to CNN that he passed away June 10 in New York City from a cardiac arrest. Yulin was a decorated theater actor, playing Hamlet three times off-Broadway and appearing in plays on Broadway including 'Hedda Gabler,' 'The Price' and 'The Visit.' He also taught at NYC's prestigious Juilliard School for eight years. Leibman's email said Yulin was working on new projects with actor and longtime collaborator Stacy Keach up until the time of his death. The actor brought his theatrical stage presence into his film work, appearing in 'Looking for Richard' with Al Pacino in 1996. Yulin is perhaps best known to audiences as the angry judge in 1989's 'Ghostbusters II' who unwittingly causes the supernatural goo to boil over and ghosts to wreak havoc in the courtroom. His other notable film roles included parts in 'Scarface,' 'Clear and Present Danger,' 'Training Day' and 'Multiplicity.' On the small screen, Yulin scored an Emmy nomination for his work on 'Frasier' in 1996. He also appeared on 'Veep,' 'The Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt,' 'And Just Like That…,' 'Billions' and 'Divorce.' Recently, Yulin had a major arc on the hit Netflix series 'Ozark' opposite Jason Bateman and Laura Linney. In the weeks prior to his death, Yulin was preparing to work on a new TV series costarring Linney along with Kevin Kline titled 'American Classic.' The director of that series, Michael Hoffman, called Yulin 'very simply one of the greatest artists I have ever encountered,' according to a statement provided by Leibman. 'And what he was as an actor, he was as a man, the grace, the humility, the generosity. All of us at 'American Classic' have been blessed by our experience with him,' Hoffman added. Yulin is survived by his wife Kristen Lowman, a son-in-law, a nephew and godchildren. He was predeceased by his daughter, actress Claire Lucido, Leibman said.
