Global operator strategies - 05/04/06

NTL finalizes the purchase of Virgin Mobile for $1.6bn, and would be the first so-called quadruple-play telecommunications operator in the U.K

Google has been granted three patents that could help it to launch WiFi free access but with ads on the user screen. Ads should be customized according to the customer profile and the location.

Free (France) launched a free directory service (118818), when all its rivals launched overtaxed call service.

Verizon Comm. has sold its Dominican Republic operation and its stake in Puerto Rico Telephone for a combined $3bn to America Movil. A JV between America Movil and Telmex will but its 29% stake in CANTV (Venezuela).

OTE (Greece) should be sold in 2007. The Greek government should sell its 36% stake in OTE by 2007. OTE said also it will dispose of its 90% stake in Armentel (Armenia).

CANTV (Venezuela) plans to invest $500m in operation in 2006.

EU Commission orders Portugal to drop golden share in Portugal Telecom