Telecom in Austria (2026)

Austria's telecom market is built on three physical network operators that own the mobile infrastructure, plus a growing number of MVNOs (Mobile Virtual Network Operators) that resell access on those networks at lower prices.

Network Operators (MNOs)

• 1

  A1 Telekom Austria

  The former state monopoly and still Austria's largest provider. Operates the most extensive network with the best coverage in rural and Alpine regions. Part of the América Móvil group. Also Austria's largest fixed-line and fiber provider.

• 2

  Magenta Telekom (T-Mobile Austria)

  Part of Deutsche Telekom. Merged with UPC Austria (cable TV) in 2019, making it a major triple-play provider (mobile + internet + TV). Strong urban coverage and competitive pricing.

• 3

  Drei (Hutchison Drei Austria)

  Part of CK Hutchison. Known for generous data plans and aggressive pricing. Also offers 5G fixed wireless home internet as an alternative to cable or fiber. Good urban coverage, slightly less reliable in remote areas.

MVNOs (Virtual Operators)

MVNOs do not own network infrastructure but lease capacity from MNOs. They typically offer lower prices and no long-term contracts, making them popular with residents and budget-conscious users:

• HoT (Hofer Telekom): On the Magenta network. Austria's most popular MVNO, sold at Hofer supermarkets.
• spusu: On the Drei network. Known for flexible, high-data plans at very low prices.
• bob: On the A1 network. A1's own budget brand, offering simplified plans.
• yesss!: On the A1 network. Ultra-budget option with basic plans.
• LIDL Connect: On the Drei network. Sold at Lidl supermarkets.

Telekom Austria AG, trading as the A1 Telekom Austria Group, is Austria's largest telecommunications operator, headquartered in Vienna. It is majority-controlled by América Móvil (the Mexican group behind Claro/Telcel), with the Austrian state holding ÖBAG as the second-largest shareholder. It is publicly listed on the Vienna Stock Exchange (Wiener Börse) under the ticker TKA. The A1 brand is its Austrian operating company.

Ownership

América Móvil holds roughly 51% and ÖBAG about 28%, the two running a shareholder syndicate; the rest is free float.

Stock listing

Vienna Stock Exchange, ticker TKA (ISIN AT0000720008). Part of the ATX index of leading Austrian shares.

Size

Around 24 million customers across the group, roughly EUR 5.4 billion in annual revenue and about 18,000 employees.

Footprint

Operates in Austria plus several Central and Eastern European markets, including Bulgaria, Croatia, Slovenia, Serbia, and North Macedonia.

Ownership percentages and financials are based on the group's most recent published figures and shift over time; the share price changes daily on the Wiener Börse.

All three network operators provide excellent 4G coverage in urban areas (Vienna, Graz, Linz, Salzburg, Innsbruck). The key differences emerge in rural and mountainous regions, and in 5G rollout progress.

Austria's telecom prices are competitive within Western Europe. Here is what you can expect to pay in 2026. For a full budget breakdown, see our cost of living guide.

All prices per month including 20% VAT. See our VAT guide for how Austrian taxes work.

The Austrian telecom market is regulated by the RTR (Rundfunk und Telekom Regulierungs-GmbH) and the TKK (Telekom-Control-Kommission). Key consumer protections include:

• SIM registration: Since 2019, all SIM cards must be registered with a valid passport or EU ID. This applies to both prepaid and contract SIMs.
• EU roaming: Under EU regulations, you can use your Austrian SIM in any EU/EEA country at no extra charge ("Roam Like at Home").
• Number portability: You can switch providers while keeping your phone number. Porting is free and takes 1–3 business days.
• Contract transparency: Providers must clearly state minimum contract terms, cancellation policies, and total costs. The Arbeiterkammer offers free consumer advice if disputes arise.
• Net neutrality: Austria follows EU net neutrality rules. Providers cannot throttle or prioritize traffic for commercial reasons.

• 1

  Start with a prepaid SIM on day one

  Buy a HoT or spusu SIM at any Hofer or Spar supermarket. You only need your passport. See our SIM card guide for detailed comparisons.

• 2

  Wait for your Meldezettel before signing contracts

  Contract plans and home internet require proof of address ( Meldezettel) and usually an Austrian bank account for direct debit.

• 3

  Check coverage at your specific address

  Coverage varies significantly between buildings in the same neighbourhood. Use provider coverage checkers and ask neighbours which provider works best.

• 4

  Consider bundling for savings

  A1 and Magenta offer discounts when you combine mobile, home internet, and TV. Savings of 5–15 EUR per month are common.

• 5

  Keep your Austrian number

  Your Austrian phone number becomes tied to banking, digital ID (ID Austria), and many services. Porting between providers is free if you switch.