Orange has abondoned its own broadband network  in a deal with BT. Orange has handed over its fixed line network to BT after spending millions of pounds installing its own equipment in a bid to improve services to its customers. 

It is thought that Orange would need to make substantial investment to maintain its broadband network but feel that the BT deal will allow them ” to take advantage of future technology developments” such as home and TV entertainment. Constant investment is needed to stay up to date.

In a report in the Times Bruno Duarte, vice-president of strategy said the reason for the change is because of dwindling demand for its broadband services. However they do need to remain in fixed line broadband and using BT’s network will almost double its broadband reach.   

Orange is the 5th largest fixed line broadband provider and has around 840,000 customers. This figure was however around 1 million a year ago. It is hoped that the deal will allow Orange to become more competitive in the broadband market.

Orange recently joined forces with T-mobile and has nearly 30 million mobile phone customers.