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Basis of Presentation (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | 3 Months Ended
--- | ---
Mar. 31, 2017 | Mar. 31, 2016
Basis of Presentation [Line Items] |  |
Amounts recorded gross in revenues that are billed to customers and remitted to governmental authorities | $ 19 | $ 23
Equipment Installment Plans Accounting Change |  |
Service revenue | 997 | 1,011
Interest and dividend income | 4 | 3
Adjustment |  |
Equipment Installment Plans Accounting Change |  |
Service revenue | $ 16 | 11
Interest and dividend income |  | $ (11)
U.S. Cellular |  |
Basis of Presentation [Line Items] |  |
TDS ownership of U.S. Cellular | 83.00% |

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