New UK LTE entrants bump up worldwide 4G scores.

August 29, 2013

1 Min Read

SAWBRIDGEWORTH, UK -- Mobile operators Vodafone and O2 both commercially launched 4G/LTE services today. Vodafone launched its service in London, while O2 launched in London, Bradford and Leeds.

Both operators are initially using 800 MHz spectrum (3GPP band 20) that each obtained by auction following the shift by TV broadcasters from analogue to digital transmissions. The 800 MHz band is increasingly popular for LTE mobile broadband service, due to its long-range coverage capabilities and superior in-building performance.

Alan Hadden, President of the GSA, said: “800 MHz spectrum is currently used in 23 LTE networks worldwide and is one of the best supported frequency bands for the choice of user terminals.”

Both O2 and Vodafone each plan to extend LTE coverage to reach 13 cities by the end of 2013.

The UK now has three LTE operators. EE were the first operator to commercially launch 4G/LTE service last October. EE uses refarmed 1800 MHz spectrum (3GPP band 3) and users also benefit from a large choice of compatible terminals. EE 4G/LTE service is currently available in 105 towns and cities, covering 60% of the population.

The remaining UK operator, 3 UK, plans to launch its 4G/LTE service in London, Birmingham and Manchester in December 2013.

According to GSA’s research, there are now 204 commercially launched networks in 77 countries.

GSA recently confirmed in its Status of the LTE Ecosystem report that 1,064 LTE user devices had been launched by 111 manufacturers. The LTE bands used in the UK are supported by 25-30% of products. The report is available as a free download to registered site users via the link at http://www.gsacom.com

Global Mobile Suppliers Association (GSA)

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