The French telecoms regulator Arcep announced yesterday that the nation’s three main mobile network operators – Orange France, SFR and Bouygues Telecom – have signed a landmark 3G network sharing agreement allowing for the extension of UMTS network coverage across the country. Under the auspices of the industry regulator, the three signed the pact on 11 February, setting out the framework on the principles of how 3G network sharing will work. Arcep says the sharing agreement will help speed up the rollout of 3G services across France as it looks to reach 100% coverage by 31 December 2013. The watchdog says the three cellcos have also agreed to include the recently anointed fourth mobile network licence holder – Iliad’s Free Mobile – before 31 May 2010. The newcomer received its 3G concession in January.

 source:telegeography