Mint Mobile is a private wireless telecommunications company based in Costa Mesa, California, United States. It operates as a mobile virtual network operator (MVNO), providing affordable prepaid wireless services. Mint Mobile became popular for its direct-to-consumer model, offering plans that are purchased in advance for 3, 6, or 12 months, which significantly reduces costs for customers.
The company was founded in 2015 by David Glickman and Rizwan Kassim, both experienced entrepreneurs in the telecom industry. Mint Mobile rose to prominence not only because of its pricing model but also due to its creative marketing campaigns. Actor Ryan Reynolds became a minority owner and spokesperson in 2019, further boosting its brand recognition.
In May 2024, Mint Mobile officially became part of T-Mobile US, Inc., one of the largest wireless carriers in the United States, following a high-profile acquisition deal. Despite the acquisition, the brand continues to operate under its own name, maintaining its reputation for affordability and flexibility in mobile services.
Ownership Status of Mint Mobile
Mint Mobile is currently owned by T-Mobile US, Inc. The acquisition was completed on May 1, 2024, after regulatory approvals from the U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC). The deal was valued at up to $1.35 billion in a combination of cash and stock.
Prior to this acquisition, ownership was shared among the founders and minority investor Ryan Reynolds. Reynolds held about 20–25% of the company and played a key role in its marketing success, though he was not the majority owner. After the sale, Reynolds continues to be associated with Mint Mobile as a creative contributor, while full corporate ownership rests with T-Mobile.
Major Shareholders/Key Shareholder Highlights
Mint Mobile’s ownership journey has shifted from entrepreneurial founders and celebrity investment to full corporate integration under T-Mobile:
| Stakeholder / Entity | Approximate Ownership / Role | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| T-Mobile US, Inc. | 100% (current parent company) | Owns Mint Mobile since May 1, 2024. |
| David Glickman & Rizwan Kassim | Founders; previously owners before T-Mobile acquisition | They still lead the brand(s) under T-Mobile following acquisition. |
| Ryan Reynolds | Former minority stakeholder (~20-25%) | Also serves as public face / creative collaborator even after sale. |
- T-Mobile US, Inc. is now the parent company and sole owner of Mint Mobile. It acquired the brand to strengthen its prepaid and budget-friendly wireless offerings.
- David Glickman and Rizwan Kassim, the founders, continue to oversee operations under the T-Mobile umbrella, ensuring continuity in the brand’s customer-centric approach.
- Ryan Reynolds no longer holds an ownership stake after the acquisition but remains the public face of Mint Mobile’s advertising campaigns, maintaining the brand’s unique voice.
Recent Developments in Ownership
The most significant development in Mint Mobile’s ownership occurred in 2023–2024 when T-Mobile US announced and finalized its acquisition of Ka’ena Corporation, the parent company of Mint Mobile.
- In March 2023, T-Mobile disclosed plans to acquire Ka’ena Corporation for up to $1.35 billion.
- In April 2024, the FCC granted approval for the deal, clearing regulatory hurdles.
- On May 1, 2024, the acquisition officially closed, making Mint Mobile a T-Mobile brand.
This move allows T-Mobile to capture a larger share of the prepaid wireless market while keeping Mint Mobile’s existing value-driven identity intact.
FAQs
1. Who is the current owner of Mint Mobile?
Mint Mobile is owned by T-Mobile US, Inc. as of May 2024.
2. Was Ryan Reynolds the owner of Mint Mobile?
Ryan Reynolds was a minority stakeholder (around 20–25%) from 2019 until the acquisition, but he was never the sole owner.
3. How much did T-Mobile pay for Mint Mobile?
The deal was valued at up to $1.35 billion, paid through a mix of cash and stock.
4. Do the founders still run Mint Mobile?
Yes. David Glickman and Rizwan Kassim continue to manage Mint Mobile’s operations under T-Mobile’s ownership.
5. Is Mint Mobile still independent?
No, it is part of T-Mobile, but it continues to operate as a separate brand focused on prepaid and budget customers.
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