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Summary of Significant Accounting Policies and Recent Accounting Pronouncements (Details) $ in Millions | 12 Months Ended
--- | ---
Dec. 31, 2016 USD ($) | Dec. 31, 2015 USD ($) | Dec. 31, 2014 USD ($)
Basis of presentation |  |  |
Number of wireless connections | 5,000,000 |  |
Wireline and Cable connections | 1,200,000 |  |
Service | $ 3,999 | $ 4,322 | $ 4,329
Amounts recorded gross in revenues that are billed to customers and remitted to governmental authorities | 85 | 95 | 113
Advertising costs | $ 263 | 268 | 228
U.S. Cellular |  |  |
Basis of presentation |  |  |
TDS ownership of U.S. Cellular | 83.00% |  |
Agent liability | $ 57 | 76 |
Service | $ 3,030 | 3,350 | $ 3,398
U.S. Cellular | Loyalty Rewards Program |  |  |
Basis of presentation |  |  |
Service |  | $ 58 |

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