Emeka Obiodu
Can network sharing propel LTE?
Two recent announcements in France and Sweden have highlighted the importance of network sharing for LTE and the need for a clearer regulatory outlook. While Telenor and Tele2 inked a deal to build and share a 4G network, regulators in France moved forward to articulate a framework for sharing 3G networks. Apart from being in consonance with what Ovum has called for, these announcements proffer an alternative option that could promote a swifter rollout of LTE. Two important announcements This week's announcement by Tele2 and Telenor to jointly build and own a 4G network in Sweden highlights what might become a trend for future 4G networks. In their announcement, both companies said they will form a 50:50-owned joint venture to roll out a nationwide 4G LTE network in Sweden. Not only will they share their active network components - essentially the RAN - but they are sharing the spectrum too. The deal includes both the 2100MHz and the 900MHz spectrum bands, ensuring that the network will have nationwide coverage. By sharing their RAN and spectrum, Tele2 and Telenor will effectively operate as mobile virtual network operators on their jointly owned network. In France, the regulator Arcep has articulated a framework for future 3G network sharing. Arcep firstly extolled the merits of its existing support for passive network sharing (i.e. sharing sites, buildings and masts). Then, while acknowledging that it is a recent trend, less common and much more complex, the French watchdog set out its plan for active sharing. Arcep has invited market players to submit framework agreements, along its guidelines, by the end of the year.
