A vea, the sole GSM 1800 mobile operator of Turkey, was founded in 2004. Being driven by a spirit of innovation, Avea, the youngest operator of Turkey, has a nationwide customer base of 13.2 million as of the first quarter of 2012. Offering services to 98% of Turkey's population through its next generation network, the company is growing fast both in the corporate and individual services with the brand "Avea" and constantly investing in technology and infrastructure as well as in its management and around 3000 employees. Having roaming agreements with 662 operators in 202 countries, the company continues to expand its roaming partnerships.
TT&TİM İletişim Hizmetleri A.Ş. was officially established in February 19th, 2004 as a consequence of the merger between Aycell, Türk Telekom's GSM Operator and İş-TİM which has been established through the partnership of İş Bankası Group with a share of 51% and TİM with a share of 49%. Following the merger, for a period Aria and Aycell brands existed under TT&TİM. A totally new brand "Avea", reflecting the synergy from the merger was introduced into the market on June 23rd, 2004. The business name "TT&TİM İletişim Hizmetleri A.Ş" was replaced with "Avea İletişim Hizmetleri A.Ş." as of October 15th, 2004.
As GSM sector's youngest, most dynamic and the alternative operator, Avea brought a new competitive environment to Turkish GSM market. The privatization of 55% of Türk Telekom's shares was completed in November 2005, by Oger Telecom's acquisition 55% of Türk Telekom's shares. In September 2006, Türk Telekom acquired Telecom Italia's shares of 40.6% in Avea. Turk Telekom now holds 89,99% of the shares in Avea. The remaining 10,01% belongs to İş Bankası.
Detailed information on Avea is available on www.avea.com.tr