Paul Marcarelli, of the popular Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE:VZ) ads, has defected and joined Sprint Corp (NYSE:S).

Marcarelli was popularly known as the ‘can you hear me now?’ guy because the Verizon ads showcased him traveling through the United States saying ‘can you hear me now?’ while holding a phone outwards. Marcarelli has joined Sprint in search of more opportunities because he believes that the network coverage ads have outlived their usefulness.

Marcarelli also points out that Sprint is almost on par with Verizon, but Sprint has rates that are more affordable than those of its competitor. His new advertisement with Sprint was aired during the NBA finals on Sunday with the title “Paul Switched.” Marcarelli used the phrase “can you hear that,” In response to the shift from Verizon and his former ads. In the new ad, he activates a new phone with his traveling salesperson and is amazed at the speed of switching over the phone data.

Marcelo Claure, the CEO of Sprint released a statement with the USA Today where he stated that the company’s goal is to get the audience on social media or TV to pay attention. The CEO further pointed out that many people will probably recognize Marcarelli in the new Sprint ads and wonder what happened. Sprint’s new strategy highlights the end of the harsh ads that competitors have been using to take shots at each other which include pointing out the shortcomings of their rivals.

The ads also highlight the change of the company’s ads structure since it went under fiery criticism from the previous ad where Sprint described T-Mobile US Inc (NASDAQ:TMUS) as ghetto. Marcelo us using his familiar face to make a mobile provider impression for Sprint. He also pointed out that he might not be the ideal person to give mobile advice. He made the statement because many people often approach him and initiate conversations about mobile service providers and their experiences.