3G Mobile Network Coverage Maps Released
3G Mobile Network Coverage Maps Released
8th July , 2009
UK : For the first time in the UK, Ofcom has released 3G mobile network coverage maps along with a mobile market assessment report. One of Ofcom’s main objectives is to sustain competition within the 3G mobile market.
They do this generally by :
- monitoring competition ( consumer protection )
- seeking new entrants ( to maximize consumer benefits )
- best choice and value for money ( for consumers )
The recent Ofcom research has confirmed that users are using 3G mobile networks to access the internet on an ever increasing level ( via 3G data card and dongle ).
The report confirms that there were over 2 million new 3G mobile connections in the 12 months prior to March 2009.
Thus 3G mobile network coverage becomes of paramount importance for the consumer. Ofcom confirm coverage is generally good. However, there are issues in some areas such as rural communities and so called “hot spots". Separately, Ofcom today published for the first time a series of maps showing coverage across the UK by mobile networks using 3G technology.
The new 3G mobile network coverage maps :
www.ofcom.org.uk/radiocomms/ifi/licensing/classes/broadband/cellular/3g/maps/3gmaps/
To help address these problems Ofcom will:
- Assist the Government on its proposals to make more spectrum available for mobile broadband as well as the work to improve 3G coverage on key transport routes;
- Undertake new research to explore for the first time the technical quality of service - such as mobile broadband speeds - that consumers receive from mobile devices; and
- Investigate the causes of some persistent mobile coverage 'not-spots' - areas of poor or no reception - and work with public bodies to consider how to resolve these issues. This may include providing guidance on ways to overcome coverage issues.
More Ofcom 3G News
Ofcom Proposes Action Against O2 to Meet 3G Rollout Obligation
Ofcom To Open Additional 3G Frequency Spectrum in UK
UK Regulator Issues 3G Rollout Obligations