Investments in Unconsolidated Entities

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2016

Investments in Unconsolidated Entities [Abstract]

Investments in Unconsolidated Entities

Note 8Investments in Unconsolidated Entities

Investments in unconsolidated entities consist of amounts invested in wireless entities in which U.S. Cellular holds a noncontrolling interest. These investments are accounted for using either the equity or cost method as shown in the following table:

December 31,	2016		2015
(Dollars in millions)
Equity method investments:
Capital contributions, loans, advances and adjustments	$	108	$	112
Cumulative share of income		1,577		1,432
Cumulative share of distributions		(1,276)		(1,183)
Total equity method investments		409		361
Cost method investments		4		2
Total investments in unconsolidated entities	$	413	$	363

The following tables, which are based on information provided in part by third parties, summarize the combined assets, liabilities and equity, and results of operations of U.S. Cellular’s equity method investments:

December 31,	2016		2015
(Dollars in millions)
Assets
Current	$	739	$	632
Due from affiliates		387		89
Property and other		4,615		4,555
Total assets	$	5,741	$	5,276
Liabilities and Equity
Current liabilities	$	466	$	808
Deferred credits		184		237
Long-term liabilities		187		147
Long-term capital lease obligations		6		2
Partners' capital and shareholders' equity		4,898		4,082
Total liabilities and equity	$	5,741	$	5,276

Year Ended December31,	2016		2015		2014
(Dollars in millions)
Results of Operations
Revenues	$	6,747	$	6,958	$	6,669
Operating expenses		5,047		5,226		5,036
Operating income		1,700		1,732		1,633
Other income (expense), net		(11)		(7)		1
Net income	$	1,689	$	1,725	$	1,634