First because only two lots 5 megahertz and 4

This phosphorus hard among the mobile operators. The players in the sector were still two months to define their strategy for the purchase of frequencies. It is indeed on 11 May that the tender on two lots of frequencies 3 remaining G - after captured by Free - will be closed. And it "may change the balance of the market of mobile telephony in France", according to an expert. First because only two lots - 5 megahertz and 4.8 - are available, while potentially four operators are interested. Then because the structure of this tender is innovative. It is with a single, with a minimum price of EUR 120 million per lot, without that participants are familiar with the auction of the other. Finally, the opening to competition, that is the home of virtual mobile operators (MVNO) on a network, gives more value to the auction. There are several levels of accommodation of the MVNO, with the multiplier coefficient is between 1.5 and 2. If Free, for example, proposes EUR 150 million and offers to host MVNO on its network by enabling them to connect their own infrastructure, then its bid is equivalent to the double, or 300 million euros. In short, it is a true liar poker which is committed to two months in the telecoms, each attempting to assess the needs of competitors while blurring the tracks.

One thing is certain: Orange and SFR have views on these frequencies, because of the saturation risk facing their networks. The use of the 3 G keys and "smartphones" to connect to the Internet makes it very important, even vital, the purchase of frequencies.

Bouygues Telecom is less busy. With fewer clients, it is not subject to the same problems. However, Martin Bouygues said last week that he thought on the subject. With Free, Maxime Lombardini, the Director-General, said "interested, but not at any price."

Orange and SFR on the breach

Step course than the fourth mobile operator - who has promised to host MVNO - widely has the financial means to go much further than the 120 minimum EUR million. "I think that Free is in need of another block of frequencies", said Stéphane Dubreuil, Director at SIA Board. "Orange and SFR in need for reasons of saturation of their infrastructure and have the financial means to acquire it.". There is even the temptation for an operator to attempt to win the two lots so as to Free and others. "This would an enormous impact on competition in mobile telephony", continues the latter.

With a question. France first two mobile operators take the MVNO commitments to alleviate the final addition If Orange agrees to make very good conditions to the MVNO, then they will apply retroactively to the MVNO that it hosts, such as Virgin Mobile, the largest of them, which has nearly 2 million customers.

Finally, the only one laughing will likely be Eric Woerth, Minister of the Budget. Indirectly, the iPhone - or at least use that make French consumers - will perhaps allow the State to get out of debt.