Finance
Telia, Lyse to combine Norwegian mobile radio networks to save costs
Published by Global Banking and Finance Review
Posted on February 2, 2026
1 min readLast updated: February 2, 2026
Quick Summary
Telia and Lyse are merging their Norwegian mobile networks to reduce costs and improve digital infrastructure, with operations starting in the second quarter.
Telia and Lyse Join Forces to Merge Norwegian Mobile Networks
Collaboration Between Telia and Lyse
STOCKHOLM, Feb 2 (Reuters) - Swedish telecoms group Telia and Norway's Lyse, owner of mobile operator Ice, have agreed to combine their Norwegian mobile radio access networks into a jointly held firm, the companies said on Monday.
Telenor dominates the Norwegian telecom market, followed by Telia Norway and Ice.
Telia Norway and Ice will continue to own and operate separate core networks as independent players and competitors.
Financial Benefits of Network Combination
"This gives us both an opportunity to build a nationwide network, which we cannot do in isolation by ourselves, because it's too costly," Telia CEO Patrik Hofbauer told Reuters.
Telia said it expects the network combination to save material costs and deliver clear financial benefits.
Operational Timeline for Combined Network
"It will give us the firepower to invest and build a strong digital network," Hofbauer said.
The combined network is expected to be operational in the second quarter.
(Reporting by Supantha Mukherjee in Stockholm, editing by Anna Ringstrom)
Key Takeaways
- •Telia and Lyse are merging their Norwegian mobile networks.
- •The merger aims to reduce costs and enhance network coverage.
- •Telia and Ice will maintain separate core networks.
- •The combined network will be operational by the second quarter.
- •Telenor remains the market leader in Norway.
Frequently Asked Questions about Telia, Lyse to combine Norwegian mobile radio networks to save costs
1What is a mobile network?
A mobile network is a telecommunications network that allows users to connect to the internet and make calls using mobile devices. It consists of base stations, antennas, and other infrastructure to provide wireless communication.
2What are financial benefits?
Financial benefits are advantages that result in monetary gain for a business or individual. This can include increased revenue, reduced costs, or improved profitability from strategic decisions or investments.
