Deutsche Telekom’s UK-based mobile unit T-Mobile and Hutchison Whampoa’s 3 UK have reportedly agreed to share their 3G mobile network. The companies are in the process of setting up a 50:50 joint venture (JV) to create the shared network which is scheduled for completion by the end of 2009. Under the terms of the JV, which is expected to run till 2031, both operators will work as equal partners in planning the development and operation of the integrated access network while remaining competitors in the UK mobile wholesale and retail markets. The deal will enable the two operators to jointly save $4 billion over a period of 10 years.
