Mobile firm Vodafone has failed to reach its coverage obligations as set by 3G mobile spectrum licences, according to regulator Ofcom.
When 3G began to be implemented throughout the UK back in 2000, the various mobile net
works had to roll out these services to 80% of the UK and to 90% in 2010.
Though EE, 02 and Three have reportedly met these obligations, Vodafone has failed by 1.4%. The firm have promised to rectify their broadband coverage by the end of the year, which involves building more 3G mobile masts than they had originally forecasted.
“Ofcom is fully aware of our plans to ensure compliance by the end of this year. Our network investment stands at more than £900m this year alone and we remain on track to deliver indoor coverage across 2G, 3G and 4G to 98% of the population by 2015, two years ahead of the regulator’s deadline,” commented the mobile phone firm.
Aim to improve services
A recent report by Ofcom investigated the state of broadband in the UK, showing that coverage on Britain’s roads and rural areas was extremely poor. The regulator sees the issue as a priority to resolve since it is a regular grumble of smartphone owners.
Next year the firm is due to deliver an in depth report of the state of mobile coverage on the country’s railways.
The improvement of Vodafone’s services and coverage to comply with 3G’s obligations will take little effort on the mobile firm’s part, according to Ofcom. This is especially due to the impending roll out of 4G, which will guarantee excellent coverage across all networks.
