Vodafone to Launch DSL High Speed Internet in Spain

MADRID -(Dow Jones)- Vodafone Group said Wednesday it would launch a DSL-based high speed Internet service in Spain for residential customers Oct. 8, as the Spanish unit makes a further step towards the integration of its mobile and fixed-line services.

In a press release, Vodafone said it would offer different packages that combine fixed high speed Internet with voice - both cellular and fixed - as well as third-generation Internet services for laptops and mobile devices.

Previously, the company's offer in Spain was limited to mobile telephony and third-generation Internet.

Last October, Vodafone beat out rivals to acquire the Italian and Spanish assets of Tele2 for GBP537 million, in a move that has strengthened Vodafone's hand against rivals.

Telefonica has the largest share of Internet customers in Spain, and is the only operator with its own fixed-line network. The company also acts as a wholesaler, renting its lines to other operators like Vodafone, Jazztel and France Telecom's Orange so they can provide DSL Internet in Spain.

Cable operator Ono also provides Internet in Spain.

-By Jason Sinclair, Dow Jones Newswires, 34 913958127, jason.sinclair@dowjones.com

(END) Dow Jones Newswires

Posted to the site on 24th September 2008