French mobile operator SFR is offering free femtocells to all of its 10+ million 3G customers. According to the operator, the service is the first of its kind in Europe and follows the world’s first free model adopted by SoftBank Mobile in Japan.

The French operator is using Ubiquisys’ femtocell technology, the UK-Based developer of intelligent 3G/LTE small cells.

The femtocell costs €49 which is refunded automatically on activation. Once installed, up to five subscribers can benefit from the SFR mobile service to make and receive calls.

SFR's femtocell works as a neat standalone device to connect to standard ADSL routers from any ISP.  But for users of SFR’s latest multi-function ADSL device, the Neufbox Evolution, the SFR Femto converts into a click-on USB accessory, preserving a one-box solution with no extra cables. 

"We are delighted that SFR, a major European operator, is offering free femtocells to its entire customer base. More than ever, operators are chosen for the overall quality of their service. Offering all customers a premium mobile experience is great for customers and great for business." said Chris Gilbert, CEO of Ubiquisys.