I've been watching telco operator FREE in France for sometime and feel that their in it for the long haul with a new mobile network there. One has to realize that they are actually looking forward not back when it comes to their network approach.
The Wireless Moves analysis of their approach, and of the French mobile market proves for interesting reading. I for one would back this play as their home service, speeds, features and pricing is downright disruptive.
I have been posting articles about FREE for a long time. The guy who started Iliad (Free) is one of the “maverick” French entrepreneurs who likes to shake up French business, notably, national champions like France Telecom. He is also a friend of Sarkozy.