Ofcom Launches Mobile Coverage Checker for All UK Networks
Users can zoom into their location and get an in-depth look at the best coverage zones from providers EE, O2, Three and Vodafone.
The map overlays data sourced from the networks themselves, and reveals the extent of voice and data coverage; coverage indoors or outdoors; and topographical information, which allows users to identify “natural obstructions to coverage”, also known as hills.
Consumers expect a reliable service, it said and as people increasingly move to using less-effective smartphones with internal aerials, it is important Ofcom ensures they can make an educated decision about which network to go with.
“The new map is designed to support consumers in choosing a service that best suits their needs, while promoting competition between mobile operators”.
“This must be down to efforts by Ofcom to improve mobile standards to allow customers to be informed”, commented Kester Mann, Principal Analyst at CCS Insight.
Ofcom, the telecoms regulator, has created a map showing the signal strength for mobile phones on 2G, 3G and 4G.
In related work, Ofcom is seeking to improve the process for switching between different mobile providers. It has already outline how that might happen and will “take this work forward in the coming weeks”, according to a statement.
Ofcom chief technology officer Steve Unger said: “We believe our map is the most comprehensive tool available to consumers and businesses to check mobile coverage”.
The map has a place where users can provide feedback, suggesting how the tool can be improved and asking whether people are more interested in voice or data coverage.