When 1&1 competed in 2019 to bid for frequencies for a fourth German mobile network, there was a lot of encouragement for the attack on the top dogs.
More competition, a larger selection, maybe even lower prices – some hopes were attached to the company.
Unfortunately, none of this has come true so far.
1&1 has not complied with all of the expansion obligations associated with the frequency rights, but they are not overly demanding.
The first base stations will probably only go into operation in the summer - but by the turn of the year there should actually be at least 1000 masts up and transmitting.
Much promised, little kept.
Credibility has taken a few scratches.
Sanctions are imminent as early as January, when the network agency draws up an interim report.
In preparing for the next frequency award, the regulatory authority still seems to be confident that 1&1 will get going.
But the grumbling is getting louder.
At 1&1, valuable frequencies that could be used elsewhere for better mobile coverage must not lie idle.