1980
The first combined token-coin public telephone and launching of fax machines.
1986-1987
New services are launched including the Toll-Free Number, Tele-Conference and Closed Group of Users; activation of ITAPAC and CDN (Direct Number Connection) networks.
1989
In Venice, the first Italian digital telephone exchange comes into operation.
1990
The TACS 900 MHz Mobile Radio Service comes into operation. The first mobile phones come into use in Italy.
1991
Activation of the ISDN network for integrated digital data and voice transmission via telephone lines.
1994
- Telecom Italia is set up, with the incorporation in SIP of Iritel, Telespazio, Italcable and Sirm
- Completion of the Intelligent Network, which, with its “intelligent nodes”, provides advanced telephone services including toll-free calls, virtual private networks, premium tariff services, distributed charging, universal number, mass call handling and televote
1995
- Telecom Italia Mobile is set up
- The TIM Card, the first pre-paid and rechargeable phone card in the world, is launched, as is SMS (Short Message Service) for sending short text messages. Boom in mobile phones
1996
Memotel, the centralised answering service, is activated throughout Italy
1999
Use of ADSL technology for fast Internet connections.