The mobile-phone sector remains in a period of flux that was initiated in 2012 by the entry to the market of low-cost operator, Free Mobile. The company only has third-generation (3G) and fourth-generation (4G) spectrum; it relies on a roaming agreement with Orange for access to the second-generation (2G) spectrum needed for voice-call services. Although it is small by comparison with the three established players-Orange, SFR and Bouygues Telecom-Free's entry to the market has sparked a price war that has caused average revenue per user to fell sharply. In response, a wave of restructuring in the market has begun.
In early 2014 it was reported that the government intends to restore sanction powers to the national telecommunications regulator, the Autorite de regulation des communications electroniques et des postes (Arcep). This move appears to be aimed at stemming the price war, which has hit profitability and therefore risks undermining investment.
The launch of high-speed 4G mobile services by Bouygues in late 2013 is helping to shift the focus of competition away from price-cutting and back towards service levels. Around half of the French population is set to have 4G access by end-2014.

Telecommunications report 2

Mobile 2

Fixed 3

Internet 4

Industry publishing schedule 6

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