My name is Nicole and I’m a new guest contributor to The Simple Dollar. I’m excited to begin providing an additional resource for the blog’s readers with a fun and informative weekly consumer-related infographic. I’m eager for feedback on this and future posts, so please let me know what you think in the comments.

Our first infographic provides an overview of the AT&T and Verizon’s 64% control the U.S. cellular market. The graphic provides one of many ways to consider the possible effects of concentrated market share on consumers.

There are several perspectives on the question of the utility and efficiency of concentrating the ownership of the U.S. cellular spectrum between just a few companies. One perspective that’s interesting to note is the point of view from Washington. Just last year, the Dept. of Justice blocked AT&T’s acquisition of T-Mobile noting the deal would result in diminished competition. And now, the D.O.J. is reviewing Verizon’s proposal to acquire $3.6 billion in additional spectrum from cable companies that would increase their control of and capacity for U.S. smartphone data traffic.

Ultimately, U.S. data traffic in the foreseeable future is set to multiply several times over each year. Only time will tell what spectrum ownership structure will best suit the standards, interests and aims of providers, subscribers and regulatory agencies.