AT&T, Verizon earnings will focus on data and smartphones

Both AT&T (NYSE: T) and Verizon Communications (NYSE: VZ) will report earnings this week, and, as usual, the companies are expected to see the most growth in their wireless division. The focus, now more than ever, will be on smartphone growth and data revenue, particularly since AT&T Mobility decided to switch to a usage-based pricing scenario it hopes will lure in more smartphone users. In addition to the impact of Verizon's new smartphones, like the HTC Droid Incredible, investors will be listening for more information about when Verizon Communications plans to pay a dividend from Verizon Wireless, which it owns with Vodafone. Article (sub. req.)