1&1 soon to launch its own network

1&1 has announced that it will soon be the fourth network operator in Germany. Existing customers will also be transferred to the new network. The network is scheduled to start in 2022 or 2023.

Frequencies auctioned and contract concluded with Telefonica

Until now, the company has operated exclusively as a virtual network operator, cooperating with Telefonica, whose network was used. This cooperation is to be terminated with the launch of its own network. However, this does not put the cooperation between 1&1 and Telefonica completely on ice, as the two companies have concluded a national roaming agreement: In regions where the new 1&1 network is not available, customers can continue to automatically use the Telefonica network.

In addition to 5G, 1&1 also wants to expand the LTE network so that older devices can also access the mobile network. However, 1&1 will not support GSM, which could pose a problem for some users if LTE telephony is not possible with certain smartphones on the new network.

The establishment of the new network is possible, however, because 1&1 was able to purchase the corresponding frequencies at auction.

Switchover will be automatic

For existing customers of the company, the changeover to the new network will be automatic. According to 1&1, a SIM card change will not be necessary, as the SIM cards used already have a second profile that is to be activated via silent SMS. In addition to 1&1 customers, those who have signed contracts with Drillisch brands will also be affected. However, all those who have a 1&1 or Drillisch card but have been using it to access the Vodafone network are excluded. A changeover is also conceivable in the medium term, but nothing will change in the short term.