The Czech Republic’s three mobile network operators O2, T-Mobile and Vodafone are looking at sharing their 2G, 3G and 4G networks. The operators are discussing conducting an analysis of a potential business model for consolidating their networks, PPF…
The Czech Republic’s three mobile network operators O2, T-Mobile and Vodafone are looking at sharing their 2G, 3G and 4G networks.
The operators are discussing conducting an analysis of a potential business model for consolidating their networks, PPF owned O2 said in a statement.
The analysis is to be carried out by an independent external advisor.
The operators will then decide individually whether they want to continue with the project.
“Negotiations on possible financial and legal aspects of the business model of such cooperation would then follow,” O2 said, adding that the operators will continue to pursue earlier network development plans while the analysis is conducted.
In May, O2 and T-Mobile, controlled by Deutsche Telekom, agreed to share their 4G networks, extending existing 2G and 3G sharing agreements. The commercial launch was scheduled for the second half of the year. At the time, the operators said the pact would enable them to roll out 4G services more quickly than required under the conditions of the latest spectrum auction, better maintain their networks and cut costs.
The Czech Republic raised Kc8.53bn (US$422.31m) from its spectrum auction last November and recently published a draft tender for additional frequencies.
Vodafone spent the most in the auction, bidding Kc3.11bn (US$153.97m) in total, while O2 spent Kc2.8bn (US$138.63m) and T-Mobile Kc2.61bn (US$129.2m).
T-Mobile is the nation’s largest mobile operator, followed by O2 and Vodafone respectively.
