The number of mobile users in Chile increased 22% at the end of the first quarter of 2006 compared to end-1Q05, reaching 11.6 million subscribers for the three local operators, according to local newspaper La Tercera.
Due to this growth, mobile penetration has now reached 73%. Nearly 80% of users have prepaid accounts.
Movistar Chile, the local unit of Spain's Telefónica Móviles, leads the local market with 5.33 million users, or a 45.9% share.
Locally owned operator Entel PCS comes in second place with 4.32 million subscribers and a 37.2% share, while Smartcom, owned by Mexico's América Móvil has 1.94 million subscribers and a 16.7% market share.
The three operators plan investments of US$600mn this year.
Chile's telecoms regulator Subtel expects the sector to grow 12% this year, although companies estimate the growth to be nearer 19%, just as in 2005, according to the report.
BNamericas.com"
Posted to the site on 17th May 2006
Posted to: www.cellular-news.com/story/17415.php