Wednesday, 09 January 2013 15:02
European telecoms could create EU-wide mobile network
Written by Peter Scott
Because the EU worked out so well…
Four major European telecoms are reportedly in talks to create a new EU-wide mobile network, which could unite national markets.
According to the Financial Times, Deutsche Telecom, France Telecom, Telecom Italia and Telefonica already discussed the idea with the EU’s competition chief. The carriers hope that the new mother of all networks would allow them to fend off competition from other companies and cut costs in the process.
However, the plans are likely to face opposition from national regulators even if they receive a blessing from the EU. Although an EU-wide network would probably be good news for consumers plagued by high roaming costs, some member states could oppose the move for fear of losing revenue. (You mean ripping off consumers? Ed)
Another idea is that the carriers wouldn’t even have to merge in order to step up cooperation. Such a loose alliance would probably face less trouble from regulators, too.
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