Changes in Components of Total equity (Detail) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Equity Note [Line Items]
Balance at January 1, 2013			$ 85,533
Net Income	5,578	4,292	15,631	12,483
Other comprehensive loss			(128)
Total Comprehensive Income	5,706	4,409	15,503	12,473
Contributed capital			(72)
Dividends declared			(4,464)
Common stock in treasury			101
Distributions and other			(6,336)
Balance at September 30, 2013	90,265		90,265
Noncontrolling Interests
Equity Note [Line Items]
Balance at January 1, 2013			52,376
Net Income			9,201
Other comprehensive loss			(11)
Total Comprehensive Income			9,190
Distributions and other			(6,286)
Balance at September 30, 2013	55,280		55,280
Verizon
Equity Note [Line Items]
Balance at January 1, 2013			33,157
Net Income			6,430
Other comprehensive loss			(117)
Total Comprehensive Income			6,313
Contributed capital			(72)
Dividends declared			(4,464)
Common stock in treasury			101
Distributions and other			(50)
Balance at September 30, 2013	$ 34,985		$ 34,985