Could LLU be used on mobile networks?

[5mbezchr]

Please correct me if I am wrong, but as far as I understand things, and in the simplest form, LLU is a way for companies that do not own the physical medium(Telekom lines) to rent those lines. Assuming my understanding is correct, is it possible for LLU to be extended into the mobile network? Putting aside all the legal and regulatory mumbojumbo of course.

In my head it seems more beneficial to all parties, the mobile operators make money off each other if customers use their network, and we the customer also benefit always being connected to the fastest and best connection.

I would just like to find out views, if this is something that could be done in the mobile space and what are the general thoughts if something like this could be pulled off.

The reason for the question is just a general question, one of those "just thought I would ask" type of things. Any answers would be greatly appreciated.

Have a great day people!

 

[Jola]

Well, Cell C has sold most of its towers off, and is leasing them back.

 

[rpm]

It is challenging because of spectrum (hence not a physical line which can be given to a company). I think the simplest form of mobile (wireless) LLU is creating a MVNO like Virgin Mobile.

 

[Q-Tech]

There were some stories around the possibility of doing this with LTE, partly to get around the spectrum scarcity and partly to promote wider adoption in under-serviced areas. The theory was that a nationwide LTE network would be built by a separate entity and the cell providers would purchase capacity from them.
IIRC, the initiative was being driven by the DOC or ICASA, so who knows if/when/how it may happen - if there's no clear commercial driver, no cellular provider will be interested, especially now, as they have all built their own LTE capacity.