e with mobile devices able to conduct livestreams and video calls, a third had inadequate speeds to either watch or broadcast a live HD stream effectively. This was defined as speeds less than 5 Mbps to watch and 4.5 Mbps to broadcast. Respondents on the O2 network complained the least among the customers of the four big mobile operators when asked which issues impacted their ability to both watch and initiate a livestream.

Specific issues included sound, low picture quality or video freezing. Over half (51%) of O2 customers reported no issues watching livestreamed content, whereas only 42% of both EE and Vodafone customers, and 37% of those on Three, reported no issues. Customers on these three networks also reported audio and picture quality issues at much higher rates, with over a quarter (26%) of those on EE encountering poor sound quality and 27% of Three customers reporting a fuzzy or low-quality picture when watching a livestreamed event, while 27% of Vodafone customers experienced issues with livestreams freezing.

“The increased importance of high-quality streaming services, enabled by reliable connectivity, shows that the UK must continue to embrace technological innovation and invest in its digital infrastructure,” said Global Wireless Solutions CEO Paul Carter. “5G technology, with its reliability, super-fast speeds and low latency, provides an answer to this issue. Investments in 5G technology will ensure this is an option open to all.”

The post High-Quality Streaming Gains Importance as 5G Proliferates appeared first on GWS.

A study from mobile network benchmarking company Global Wireless Solutions (GWS) has shone a light on mobile network coverage and service usage in the new Britain forged in the post-Covid environment – in particular the increased use of streaming services and video calling – but it also highlighted potential quality issues.

GWS conducted its quantitative consumer polling of 2,023 consumers and speed testing of networks with Censuswide. Fieldwork was undertaken between 17 November and 10 December 2021, carried out online using smartphones.

The company carried out direct benchmark testing in all areas of the UK from October to December 2021, driving 33 markets and 15 motorways throughout the UK during the testing process, resulting in the completion of more than a million Android and iOS individual controlled tests.

Usage of mobile apps with video and livestreaming capabilities has risen sharply through the pandemic, as events have been cancelled and remote alternatives became the only viable option. UK mobile users reported using a number of video conferencing and video call services at higher rates: 31% of respondents that use Facebook Messenger reported that they use it more often now than before the pandemic, and similarly, 23% of FaceTime users and 31% of Zoom users reported that they use those apps more regularly now than before.

However, while many reported becoming increasingly willing or reliant on video streaming services, the survey also revealed that many users suffered from connectivity issues that prevent them from making full use of these services. Nearly a quarter (24%) of those who have watched a remote event live claim to have encountered sound issues that damaged the experience; the same percentage reported fuzzy or low-quality picture, and 23% experienced video freezing through events that take place via mobile apps.

The issue of poor video quality was compounded when UK mobile users’ network speeds were put through speed tests. GWS’s speed testing found that of those with mobile devices able to conduct livestreams and video calls, one-third (33%) had inadequate speeds to either watch or broadcast a live HD stream effectively. This was defined as speeds less than 5 Mbps to watch and 4.5 Mbps to broadcast. Respondents on the O2 network complained the least among the customers of the four big mobile operators when asked which issues impacted their ability to both watch and initiate a livestream.

Specific issues included sound, low picture quality or video freezing. Over half (51%) of O2 customers reported no issues watching livestreamed content, whereas only 42% of both EE and Vodafone customers, and 37% of those on Three, reported no issues. Customers on these three networks also reported audio and picture quality issues at much higher rates, with over a quarter (26%) of those on EE encountering poor sound quality and 27% of Three customers reporting a fuzzy or low-quality picture when watching a livestreamed event, while 27% of Vodafone customers experienced issues with livestreams freezing.

The continued development of the UK’s 5G networks enthused the sample. Nearly a third of those surveyed (28%) said they were excited about the launch of 5G and the reliability it promises; in addition, a fifth (22%) responded that they thought 5G would be most important for keeping in touch with friends and family.

GWS’s drive testing discovered that three of the four major operators have doubled their nationwide 5G coverage in comparison with last year (EE’s 5G coverage increased approximately 120%, O2’s 260%, Three’s 150% and Vodafone’s 90%). The study showed that 25 out of the 33 major metropolitan cities and towns that GWS tested across the UK now offer 5G coverage from all four operators.

“Our data points to the fact that while current network capabilities allow people to feel connected, there are limitations,” said Global Wireless Solutions CEO Paul Carter.

“The increased importance of high-quality streaming services, enabled by reliable connectivity, shows that the UK must continue to embrace technological innovation and invest in its digital infrastructure,” he said. “5G technology, with its reliability, super-fast speeds and low latency, provides an answer to this issue. Investments in 5G technology will ensure this is an option open to all.”

The post UK Must Continue to Embrace Technological Innovation and Invest in Mobile Infrastructure appeared first on GWS.

Network analysis firm Global Wireless Solutions says that three of the four major operators have doubled their nationwide 5G coverage in the last year.

The claim was hidden at the bottom of a press release providing a hail of stats around streaming and video calling, based on a consumer survey GWS carried out.

According to its recent drive testing, this year EE’s 5G coverage increased approximately 120%, O2’s 260%, Three’s 150%, and Vodafone’s 90%. GWS also claimed 25 out of the 33 major metropolitan cities and towns it tested now offer 5G coverage from all four operators.

The main theme of the release however was around how many of us are planning to do some video calling over Christmas as the spectre of Omicron threatens to disrupt festive plans. GWS reckons 5.9 million UK adults ‘expect to attend a livestream of Christmas celebrations with family members.’

37% of those surveyed claimed they would have preferred to connect in person – so do we extrapolate from this that 63 percent would prefer not to see family in person this Christmas?

Meanwhile, 34% said that video calling and remote events have helped them to feel included when they were unable to attend a celebration, while 28 percent said it helped them to feel connected to friends and family. Fair enough – but again if these stats are supposed to make the point that we’re using tech to interact with family and friends more, the corollary statement would be that 72% did not say video claiming helped them feel more connected.

The report goes on to highlight ‘the issue of poor video quality, which can damage the inclusive feeling of remote celebrations with family and friends’.

Apparently GWS’s speed testing found that 33 percent had inadequate speeds to either watch or broadcast a live HD stream effectively – which it defines as speeds less than 5 Mbps to watch and 4.5 Mbps to broadcast. They seem to be talking specifically about ‘HD’ livestreams, as opposed to video calling in general.

Hold on a minute, but that means 67% said… oh you get the idea.

“The pandemic continues to underline the importance of robust digital connectivity that allows people to meet virtually when the risks of in person socialising are high,” said Paul Carter, CEO, Global Wireless Solutions. “Video calling and livestreaming have provided so many with much needed relief when families and friends are forced apart over important celebrations like Christmas, New Years, and other occasions. Our data points to the fact that whilst current network capabilities allow people to feel connected, there are limitations.

“The increased importance of high-quality streaming services, enabled by reliable connectivity, shows that the UK must continue to embrace technological innovation and invest in its digital infrastructure to ensure people can continue to come together virtually. 5G technology, with its reliability, super-fast speeds and low latency provides an answer to this issue. Online connections with friends and family will once again provide a lifeline for many through this coming Christmas period. Our investments in 5G technology will ensure that this is an option open to all.”

So there are a few things being said at once here – but the gist seems to be that lots of us will video call gramps this Christmas, but some people don’t have connections that will allow them to do that smoothly in high definition. Therefore the 5G rollout is important, which is just as well because coverage has doubled in the UK over the last year according to its tests.

The post UK 5G Coverage Roughly Doubled in 2021 appeared first on GWS.

Despite Boris Johnson’s claims that Christmas celebrations can go on as normal, new data shows 5.9 million Brits still plan to livestream celebrations with loved ones this year.

The representative survey of 2,023 consumers, conducted by mobile network benchmarking company Global Wireless Solutions (GWS) between late November and early December, shines a light on the increased use of streaming services and video calling to celebrate events remotely.

An estimated 5.9 million UK adults (11%) expect to use livestreaming apps during Christmas celebrations with friends and family, down only slightly from the 12% of Brits who say they did the same during last year’s lockdown Christmas. Similarly, an estimated 5.9 million (11%) expect to bring in the New Year remotely via livestreamed celebrations with loved ones.

Whilst over a third of those surveyed (37%) state that they would have preferred to connect in person, many declared that video streaming and live video services have provided much-needed relief through lockdowns and further restrictions. More than one in three Brits (34%) say that video calling, and remote events have helped them to feel included when they were unable to attend a celebration, and a further 28% say it helped them to feel connected to friends and family – particularly important during the Christmas period. 

Use of mobile apps with video and livestreaming capabilities has risen sharply through the pandemic as events have been cancelled and remote alternatives became the only viable option. UK mobile users report using a number of video conferencing and video call services at higher rates: 31% of respondents that use Facebook Messenger reported that they use it more often now than before the pandemic, and similarly 23% of Facetime users and 31% of Zoom users reported that they use those apps more regularly now than before.

However, whilst many reported becoming increasingly willing or reliant on video streaming services to connect with family members through the festive period, the survey also reveals that many Brits suffer from connectivity issues that prevent them from making full use of these services. Nearly a quarter (24%) of those who have watched a remote event live claim to have encountered sound issues that damaged the experience, 24% reported fuzzy or low-quality picture, and 23% experienced video freezing through events that take place via mobile apps.

The issue of poor video quality, which can damage the inclusive feeling of remote celebrations with family and friends, was compounded when UK mobile users’ network speeds were put through speed tests. GWS’s speed testing found that of those with mobile devices able to conduct livestreams and video calls, one third (33%) had inadequate speeds to either watch or broadcast a live HD stream effectively (i.e., speeds less than 5 Mbps to watch and 4.5 Mbps to broadcast).

On a more positive note, O2 customers should be in good shape. Survey respondents on the O2 network complained the least among the customers of the four big mobile operators when asked which issues impacted their ability to both watch and initiate a livestream (for example, issues involving sound, low picture quality or freezing). Over half (51%) of O2 customers reported no issues watching livestreamed content, whereas only 42% of both EE and Vodafone customers, and 37% of those on Three, reported no issues.

Fortunately for mobile users, the UK’s 5G rollout continues to expand nationwide resulting in improvements to current mobile networks and helping to ensure that family members will have sufficient connectivity so they can share their special moments with loved ones. This is reflected by the fact that nearly a third of those surveyed (28%) said they were excited about the launch of 5G and the reliability it promises. In addition, one fifth (22%) responded that they thought 5G would be most important for keeping in touch with friends and family.

Meanwhile, GWS’s recent drive testing discovered that three of the four major operators have doubled their nationwide 5G coverage in comparison to last year (EE’s 5G coverage increased approximately 120%, O2’s 260%, Three’s 150%, and Vodafone’s 90%). In fact, 25 out of the 33 major metropolitan cities and towns that GWS tested across the UK now offer 5G coverage from all four operators.

Says Paul Carter, CEO, Global Wireless Solutions:

“The pandemic continues to underline the importance of robust digital connectivity that allows people to meet virtually when the risks of in person socialising are high. Video calling and livestreaming have provided so many with much needed relief when families and friends are forced apart over important celebrations like Christmas, New Years, and other occasions. Our data points to the fact that whilst current network capabilities allow people to feel connected, there are limitations.

“The increased importance of high-quality streaming services, enabled by reliable connectivity, shows that the UK must continue to embrace technological innovation and invest in its digital infrastructure to ensure people can continue to come together virtually.”

The post 6 Million Brits will Livestream Christmas Celebrations Despite Lifting of Restrictions appeared first on GWS.

Despite Boris Johnson’s claims that Christmas celebrations can go on as normal, new data shows 5.9 million Brits still plan to livestream celebrations with loved ones this year.

The representative survey of 2,023 consumers, conducted by mobile network benchmarking company Global Wireless Solutions (GWS) between late November and early December, shines a light on the increased use of streaming services and video calling to celebrate events remotely.

An estimated 5.9 million UK adults (11%) expect to use livestreaming apps during Christmas celebrations with friends and family, down only slightly from the 12% of Brits who say they did the same during last year’s lockdown Christmas. Similarly, an estimated 5.9 million (11%) expect to bring in the New Year remotely via livestreamed celebrations with loved ones.

Whilst over a third of those surveyed (37%) state that they would have preferred to connect in person, many declared that video streaming and live video services have provided much-needed relief through lockdowns and further restrictions. More than one in three Brits (34%) say that video calling, and remote events have helped them to feel included when they were unable to attend a celebration, and a further 28% say it helped them to feel connected to friends and family – particularly important during the Christmas period. 

Use of mobile apps with video and livestreaming capabilities has risen sharply through the pandemic as events have been cancelled and remote alternatives became the only viable option. UK mobile users report using a number of video conferencing and video call services at higher rates: 31% of respondents that use Facebook Messenger reported that they use it more often now than before the pandemic, and similarly 23% of Facetime users and 31% of Zoom users reported that they use those apps more regularly now than before.

However, whilst many reported becoming increasingly willing or reliant on video streaming services to connect with family members through the festive period, the survey also reveals that many Brits suffer from connectivity issues that prevent them from making full use of these services. Nearly a quarter (24%) of those who have watched a remote event live claim to have encountered sound issues that damaged the experience, 24% reported fuzzy or low-quality picture, and 23% experienced video freezing through events that take place via mobile apps.

The issue of poor video quality, which can damage the inclusive feeling of remote celebrations with family and friends, was compounded when UK mobile users’ network speeds were put through speed tests. GWS’s speed testing found that of those with mobile devices able to conduct livestreams and video calls, one third (33%) had inadequate speeds to either watch or broadcast a live HD stream effectively (i.e., speeds less than 5 Mbps to watch and 4.5 Mbps to broadcast).

On a more positive note, O2 customers should be in good shape. Survey respondents on the O2 network complained the least among the customers of the four big mobile operators when asked which issues impacted their ability to both watch and initiate a livestream (for example, issues involving sound, low picture quality or freezing). Over half (51%) of O2 customers reported no issues watching livestreamed content, whereas only 42% of both EE and Vodafone customers, and 37% of those on Three, reported no issues.

Fortunately for mobile users, the UK’s 5G rollout continues to expand nationwide resulting in improvements to current mobile networks and helping to ensure that family members will have sufficient connectivity so they can share their special moments with loved ones. This is reflected by the fact that nearly a third of those surveyed (28%) said they were excited about the launch of 5G and the reliability it promises. In addition, one fifth (22%) responded that they thought 5G would be most important for keeping in touch with friends and family.

Meanwhile, GWS’s recent drive testing discovered that three of the four major operators have doubled their nationwide 5G coverage in comparison to last year (EE’s 5G coverage increased approximately 120%, O2’s 260%, Three’s 150%, and Vodafone’s 90%). In fact, 25 out of the 33 major metropolitan cities and towns that GWS tested across the UK now offer 5G coverage from all four operators.

Says Paul Carter, CEO, Global Wireless Solutions:

“The pandemic continues to underline the importance of robust digital connectivity that allows people to meet virtually when the risks of in person socialising are high. Video calling and livestreaming have provided so many with much needed relief when families and friends are forced apart over important celebrations like Christmas, New Years, and other occasions. Our data points to the fact that whilst current network capabilities allow people to feel connected, there are limitations.

“The increased importance of high-quality streaming services, enabled by reliable connectivity, shows that the UK must continue to embrace technological innovation and invest in its digital infrastructure to ensure people can continue to come together virtually.”

The post 6 Million Brits Will Continue to Livestream Christmas Celebrations appeared first on GWS.

However, some people had planned to have virtual celebrations even before Omicron fully took hold.

An estimated 5.9 million UK adults (11%) are expecting to attend a livestream of Christmas celebrations with family members this year, according to mobile network benchmarking company Global Wireless Solutions.

It is only down slightly on the 12% who said they did the same during last year’s lockdown Christmas.

More than one in three people surveyed (34%) said video calling and remote events had helped them to feel included when they were unable to attend a celebration.

Some might have an issue with dodgy video connections, though.

GWS’ speed testing found 33% of mobile users had inadequate speeds to either watch or broadcast a live HD stream effectively.

More than 2,000 people were surveyed between late November and early December.

The post 11% of Adults to Join Christmas Celebrations over Livestream appeared first on GWS.

The post More Brits Planning to Use Mobile Live Streaming Apps over Christmas – Study appeared first on GWS.

With yet another blow to our mental health and well-being, a third of Brits are ever reliant on livestreaming to ensure they do not miss a beat, with most choosing to use mobile networks as their connectivity of choice.

Unfortunately, the U.K.’s wireless connectivities spark contentious issues, with almost a quarter of those surveyed saying it damaged their experience and that ‘feeling’ you can only really get at an event. Almost 30% said they’re excited about 5G rolling out to resolve these problems – but when will that happen?!

Global Wireless Solutions Survey 5.9M Brits to Have Online Holidays

The representative survey of 2,023 consumers conducted by mobile network benchmarking company Global Wireless Solutions (GWS) releases its results. Between late November and early December, the study showed a surge on’s Christmas and holiday plans this year to be going on a remote setup, much like the previous year when COVID first struck.

An estimated 5.9 million U.K. adults (12%) expect to use live streaming apps during Christmas celebrations with friends and family, down only slightly from the 12% of Brits who say they did the same during last year’s lockdown Christmas.

Video Conferencing Via Zoom, Other Remote Apps for Christmas

GWS says that more than one in three Brits (34%) say that video calling and remote events had helped them feel included when they were unable to attend a celebration.

The survey revealed that 29% say it helped them feel connected to friends and family, feeling included in the celebrations of Christmas, one of the most significant holidays in the U.K.

However, this does not go over the fact that 37% of people stated that they preferred to connect in person. Nevertheless, participants said that video streaming and live video services had provided much-needed relief through lockdowns and further restrictions.

Apps in the U.K. for remote celebrations:

U.K. mobile users report using several video conferencing and video call services at higher rates:

• 31% of respondents that use Facebook Messenger said that they use it more often now than before the pandemic
• 23% of Facetime users
• 31% of Zoom users reported that they use those apps more regularly now than before

The survey also reveals that many Brits suffer from connectivity issues that prevent them from entirely using these services. The service of these apps and companies will still be the choice of the public in contacting their loved ones.

Fortunately for mobile users, the U.K.’s 5G rollout continues to expand nationwide, resulting in improvements to current mobile networks and helping to ensure that family members will have sufficient connectivity.

COVID-19 Omicron and the 2021 Holidays

“The pandemic continues to underline the importance of robust digital connectivity that allows people to meet virtually when the risks of in person socialising are high.” says Paul Carter, CEO, Global Wireless Solutions.

“Video calling and livestreaming have provided so many with much needed relief when families and friends are forced apart over important celebrations like Christmas, New Years, and other occasions. Our data points to the fact that whilst current network capabilities allow people to feel connected, there are limitations.”

The post UK Faces Omicron Surge, GWS Says 5.9M Citizens to Attend Christmas via Zoom, Remote Celebrations appeared first on GWS.

London, 22^nd December – As the UK chief medical officer warns that as many as one million Brits face Christmas in isolation with Covid cases continuing to surge, new data reveals that a significant number of Brits were already planning a livestreamed Christmas celebration with loved ones before Omicron took hold in the UK.

The representative survey of 2,023 consumers, conducted by mobile network benchmarking company Global Wireless Solutions (GWS) between late November and early December, shines a light on the increased use of streaming services and video calling to celebrate events remotely: an estimated 5.9 million UK adults (11%) expect to use livestreaming apps during Christmas celebrations with friends and family, down only slightly from the 12% of Brits who say they did the same during last year’s lockdown Christmas. Similarly, an estimated 5.9 million (11%) expect to bring in the New Year remotely via livestreamed celebrations with loved ones.

Whilst over a third of those surveyed (37%) state that they would have preferred to connect in person, many declared that video streaming and live video services have provided much needed relief through lockdowns and further restrictions. More than one in three Brits (34%) say that video calling, and remote events have helped them to feel included when they were unable to attend a celebration, and a further 28% say it helped them to feel connected to friends and family – particularly important during the Christmas period.

Use of mobile apps with video and livestreaming capabilities has risen sharply through the pandemic as events have been cancelled and remote alternatives became the only viable option. UK mobile users report using a number of video conferencing and video call services at higher rates: 31% of respondents that use Facebook Messenger reported that they use it more often now than before the pandemic, and similarly 23% of Facetime users and 31% of Zoom users reported that they use those apps more regularly now than before.

However, whilst many reported becoming increasingly willing or reliant on video streaming services to connect with family members through the festive period, the survey also reveals that many Brits suffer from connectivity issues that prevent them from making full use of these services. Nearly a quarter (24%) of those who have watched a remote event live claim to have encountered sound issues that damaged the experience, 24% reported fuzzy or low-quality picture, and 23% experienced video freezing through events that take place via mobile apps.

The issue of poor video quality, which can damage the inclusive feeling of remote celebrations with family and friends, was compounded when UK mobile users’ network speeds were put through speed tests. GWS’s speed testing found that of those with mobile devices able to conduct livestreams and video calls, one third (33%) had inadequate speeds to either watch or broadcast a live HD stream effectively (i.e., speeds less than 5 Mbps to watch and 4.5 Mbps to broadcast). With the UK set to spend another Christmas with virus rates high, many of whom will be relying on video streaming services to come together with family and friends may run into connectivity issues.

On a more positive note, O2 customers should be in good shape. Survey respondents on the O2 network complained the least among the customers of the four big mobile operators when asked which issues impacted their ability to both watch and initiate a livestream (for example, issues involving sound, low picture quality or freezing). Over half (51%) of O2 customers reported no issues watching livestreamed content, whereas only 42% of both EE and Vodafone customers, and 37% of those on Three, reported no issues. Customers on these three networks also reported audio and picture quality issues at much higher rates, with over a quarter (26%) of those on EE encountering poor sound quality and 27% of Three customers reporting fuzzy or low-quality picture when watching a livestreamed event, while 27% of Vodafone customers experienced issues with their livestream freezing.

Fortunately for mobile users, the UK’s 5G rollout continues to expand nationwide resulting in improvements to current mobile networks and helping to ensure that family members will have sufficient connectivity so they can share their special moments with loved ones. This is reflected by the fact that nearly a third of those surveyed (28%) said they were excited about the launch of 5G and the reliability it promises; in addition, one fifth (22%) responded that they thought 5G would be most important for keeping in touch with friends and family.

Meanwhile, GWS’s recent drive testing discovered that three of the four major operators have doubled their nationwide 5G coverage in comparison to last year (EE’s 5G coverage increased approximately 120%, O2’s 260%, Three’s 150%, and Vodafone’s 90%). In fact, 25 out of the 33 major metropolitan cities and towns that GWS tested across the UK now offer 5G coverage from all four operators.

Paul Carter, CEO, Global Wireless Solutions, commented: “The pandemic continues to underline the importance of robust digital connectivity that allows people to meet virtually when the risks of in person socialising are high. Video calling and livestreaming have provided so many with much needed relief when families and friends are forced apart over important celebrations like Christmas, New Years, and other occasions. Our data points to the fact that whilst current network capabilities allow people to feel connected, there are limitations.

 The increased importance of high-quality streaming services, enabled by reliable connectivity, shows that the UK must continue to embrace technological innovation and invest in its digital infrastructure to ensure people can continue to come together virtually. 5G technology, with its reliability, super-fast speeds and low latency provides an answer to this issue. Online connections with friends and family will once again provide a lifeline for many through this coming Christmas period. Our investments in 5G technology will ensure that this is an option open to all.

Methodology

GWS conducted its quantitative consumer polling and speed testing with Censuswide. Fieldwork was undertaken between the 17th November and 10th December 2021. The survey was carried out online using smartphones. The figures have been weighted and are representative of all UK adults (aged 18+).

GWS conducted direct benchmark testing in all areas of the UK from October to December 2021. GWS drove 33 markets and 15 motorways throughout the UK during the testing process, resulting in the completion of over a million Android and iOS individual controlled tests.

GWS’ collection and evaluation of data was conducted using Rhode & Schwarz test equipment, Samsung Galaxy mobile devices, and GWS’ MobiStat data evaluation and reporting platform.

About GWS

For most consumers today, their mobile device is their life’s remote control. As the world’s largest independent mobile insights consulting firm, GWS measures every aspect of how people live, work and play via their mobile devices – as well as how mobile network performance affects them.

Combining our market-leading network benchmarking technology and methodology with deep behavioural data, we help businesses and organisations to drive innovation and deliver better customer experiences through mobile insights, anywhere in the world. Championing the needs of mobile users by understanding and testing the things that matter to them, we’ve evolved our technology and services in step with the needs of industry and consumers for over 25 years.

For more information visit https://www.gwsolutions.com/

Media Contact

Lucie Bickerdike/Adam Hudson
Diffusion PR
+44 (0)207 291 0238
[email protected]

The post Brits Turn to Zoom as Christmas COVID Restrictions and Isolation Loom appeared first on GWS.

Brighton Pier, York Minster, Swansea Bay and Sandbanks Beach are among 35 new locations served by the UK’s largest 5G network.

“75% of the top 20 towns and cities for domestic tourism now have 5G on EE, to support a better getaway for customers,” Marc Allera, chief executive of EE parent BT’s consumer business, said.

Other landmarks where you’ll be able to access EE’s lightning-fast data include Exeter Cathedral, Norwich Cathedral, Paignton Sands, Swansea Maritime Quarter and Swansea Bay, the V&A Museum in Dundee and York Museum Gardens.

The recent expansion, rolled out last Thursday, takes EE’s 5G network to 160 cities and towns, two years after it launched as the UK’s first next-generation mobile network.

The rollout has been unhampered by the pandemic, which saw conspiracy theorists (baselessly) link 5G to coronavirus and harass engineers. EE has added 89 new locations since last March and expanded coverage in many others.

Competitors O2, Three and Vodafone now have their own 5G networks, but EE is still ahead of the pack with the most widespread coverage.

And while rivals may claim to cover a town if they offer 5G from one cellular tower, EE only updates its 5G map when it delivers connectivity to a place with a minimum population of 10,000, with at least a third of that population able to connect and full coverage of the town or city centre.

EE’s progress is all the more impressive given the small size of 5G-friendly radio spectrum band it holds. While Three holds 140MHz of spectrum across several 5G-suitable bands, including a 100MHz continuous slice seen as necessary to true 5G, EE has had just 40Mhz.

But an auction of more bands held by telecoms regulator Ofcom last month saw EE consulate its holdings. EE parent company BT snapped up 80MHz of spectrum for £452 million, an investment that will help the network deliver faster speeds and more widespread coverage.

However, a recent test-drive of the UK’s 5G networks by Global Wireless Solutions (GWS) found that the emerging next-generation networks aren’t yet living up to their promise. GWS found that 5G signal is so weak in many areas that 5G-enabled devices can only connect to it around 20% of the time.

GWS found that 40% coverage in an area is necessary to achieve baseline speeds of 100Mbps, on average. However, that coverage was attained in just seven of the 32 towns and cities it sampled. Vodafone delivered the coverage in four of those areas, while EE managed it in three.

EE 5G’s 35 newest locations

Aldridge

Alexandria

Aylesbury

Ayr

Barnsley

Biggleswade

Blackburn

Bolton

Brighton

Chester

Colchester

Dundee

Exeter

Grantham

Gravesend

Harrogate

Lincoln

Milton Keynes

Norwich

Paignton

Poole

Portsmouth

Rickmansworth

Runcorn

Southport

Stockton-on-Tees

Stoke-on-Trent

Stratford-upon-Avon

Sunbury-on-Thames

Swansea

Swindon

Widnes

Wigan

Worcester

York

The post EE Rolls Out 5G to 35 More Locations appeared first on GWS.

5G coverage is expanding in the UK, delivering blistering speeds, but the signals are still weak and 5G-enabled devices are only connecting to the networks one-fifth of the time, new research has found.

Global Wireless Solutions (GWS), which regularly drive tests the UK’s mobile networks, has included the country’s nascent 5G networks in its measurements for the first time. Analysis of the 5G networks from the four mobile operators—EE, O2, Three and Vodafone—found that 5G is available in 37% of GWS’s test markets.

On average, 5G signal is available 40% of the time in cities, 16% of the time in towns and 11% of the time on motorways. This suggests mobile networks are concentrating on major population centres in rolling out the next-generation technology, much as they did when 4G was rolled out a decade ago.

EE, which has the UK’s most developed 5G network, has rolled out its 5G in 125 cities and large towns and will continue reaching more. However, it’s said that it’s only announcing 5G in places with a minimum population of 10,000 people.

Speeds in rural areas and along motorways will lag for a few years. While 5G will be required on roads to enable technologies of the future like self-driving cars, network requirements on motorways today can be met by 4G.

5G networks, where available, are delivering average speeds of 150Mbps, nearly five times the 33Mbps speed achieved on 4G, delivering on their promise. However, 5G signal is weak in many areas. Devices can only connect to 5G where the signal is strong. This means 5G-enabled handsets, such as the latest Apple and Samsung smartphones, are only connecting to the UK’s network 20% of the time when they are available and otherwise revert to slower 4G, GWS found.

GWS also considered what level of 5G coverage is required across an area to deliver a minimum speed—and found the UK’s networks are still lacking.

Testing revealed that 40% coverage in an area is needed to achieve a baseline speed of 100Mbps on average. At this speed, you can download an HD movie in around two minutes. However, this baseline was only achieved in seven out of the 32 cities and towns tested—Belfast, Birmingham, Cardiff, Glasgow, Liverpool, London and Manchester—and only be one operator in each. Vodafone provided speeds of over 100Mbps in four of these locations, while EE delivered the other three.

As 5G coverage expands and the signal strengthens, speeds will improve and devices will be able to connect to the networks more often. For example, GWS found that in Belfast, EE’s 5G achieves average speeds of 102Mbps, but while in Manchester, Vodafone’s 5G achieves an overage throughput speed of 166Mbps with 70% coverage.

GWS also named O2 the UK’s most reliable network, although its 5G network is the least developed. O2’s overall network, including its 4G, performed the best of all networks in 14 out of 32 cities and towns and on four motorways.

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Nearly two fifths of Britain now has 5G coverage typically producing average speeds almost five times faster in areas where it is available.

Where 5G is provided, average speeds were recorded at 150 Mbps across all networks compared with 33 Mbps in areas without it, according to research by Global Wireless Solutions.

GWS assessed the 5G network performance of the UK’s four main operators – O2, Vodafone, EE and Three.

How fast? A new report suggests 37% of Britain now has 5G coverage with speeds that are ultra-quick

The research found that a 5G signal is available across 37 per cent of the UK marketplace – on average, it is available 40 per cent of the time in UK cities, 16 per cent of the time in towns, and 11 per cent on motorways.

However, the study also found, where 5G is available, it is only being delivered to 5G enabled phones a fifth of the time.

This is because 5G tends only to work in areas with a strong 5G signal, with mobile phone users having to rely instead on 4G connections most of the time.

Where there is 5G availability, it is only being delivered to 5G enabled phones just 23 per cent of the time in cities, 8 per cent in towns, and only 5 per cent of the time along motorways.

The four main network operators are focusing on deploying 5G in different locations and with varying levels of coverage according to GWS.

Cities and towns appear to be the primary focus for network providers at present.

EE for example, says it is only announcing 5G in places with a minimum population of 10,000 people.

 

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Global Wireless Solutions (GWS) has studied the performance of the UK’s mobile networks across 37 cities and other locations and determined that O2 is the best in just under half.

O2 performed the best in 14 out of 32 cities, including Belfast, Birmingham, Cambridge, Cardiff, Glasgow, Leeds, Norwich and Oxford. It also delivered the most reliable service on four major motorways: the M1, M6, M25 and M62. This is the second year in a row O2 has topped GWS’s rankings, after performing the best in 18 out of 36 locations last year.

To evaluate mobile network performance across the UK, GWS engineers conducted a total of 1.2 million data and voice task tests through iOS and Android devices, using both 4G and 5G networks. The firm also polled customers about their experience on the networks between October and December 2020.

Its tests found that EE was the best bet in 15 cities, including Bradford, Bristol, Edinburgh, Liverpool, London, Manchester, Newcastle and Reading, and on smaller motorways. However, it’s falling short in delivering decent mobile broadband in customer’s homes. While 84% of O2 customers were satisfied with their mobile broadband speeds at home, as were 82% of Three and Vodafone subscribers, just 78% of EE customers said the same.

Vodafone’s network was the most reliable in three cities, Nottingham, Sheffield and Swansea, while Three’s didn’t pull ahead in any of the tested locations.

Overall, 39% of O2 subscribers are always satisfied with their network’s reliability, compared to 33% of EE customers, 31% of Vodafone users and 30% of Three subscribers.

However, O2 has the least developed 5G network. A separate study by RootMetrics studied how each operator’s next-generation mobile network performed in the UK’s 16 most populated metropolitan markets in the second half of 2020.

While O2 has expanded its 5G network significantly since the first half of 2020, when RootMetrics was only able to test its 5G network in Belfast, it had expanded to 11 tested markets by the second half of the year. However, its 5G coverage remains limited in those cities, topping out at 17.1% in Hull and managing just 6.6% in Greater London.

In contrast, EE had the best coverage in Nottingham (57%) and achieved coverage of over a third of ten major metropolitan markets.

Vodafone 5G’s coverage was best in Liverpool, at 44%, while Three’s 5G users will find the most coverage in Hull, at 29.6%.

GWS’s testing of 5G networks found that average speeds on the network from any operator exceeded 100Mbps in seven cities: Belfast, Birmingham, Cardiff, Glasgow, Liverpool, London and Manchester. Vodafone’s 5G delivered four of these speeds, while EE’s 5G accounted for the other three.

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The arrival of 5G in the the UK is already having a marked impact on average mobile network speeds but connections are frequently falling back to 4G, according to new data from Global Wireless Solutions (GWS).

Connections are being completed on 5G only in areas where there is strong signal, dropping back to 4G in areas with a weaker 5G signal, according to the results of GWS’s latest nationwide drive test designed to measure network performance from the UK’s big four MNOs.

5G signal is available across 37% of the markets tested by GWS, but its drive test showed that connections are only being completed on 5G 20% of the time. Vodafone recorded the highest proportion of 5G usage, completing tasks on 5G around three quarters of the time, while the other three – EE, O2 and Three – used 5G about half of the time.

A deeper dive into GWS’s data shows that operators are prioritising coverage in cities, as you might expect, but are to a certain extent neglecting motorways. While the latter might not be an issue right now –  “today’s network needs on motorways are more limited and can be facilitated by existing network technologies,” GWS noted – full 5G will be required to enable more advanced applications in future, including autonomous driving, the firm said.

On average, 5G is available 40% of the time in UK cities, 16% in towns and 11% on motorways, GWS’s tests showed, while 5G networks are completing tasks just 23% of the time in cities, 8% in towns, and 5% along motorways.

The data also showed that the operators have different priorities when it comes to 5G rollout, but the firm surmised that all are making good progress. Network scanner testing showed that 5G is available in 37% of the markets drive-tested, while throughput testing showed that average speeds were boosted by nearly five times in areas in which 5G is available.

Essentially, GWS’s headline finding is that once 5G is deployed in a certain area, average network speeds go up by quite a lot, which is probably to be expected, but interesting nonetheless.

“Average speeds during network capacity stress tests where 5G is delivered are 150 Mbps across all operators, compared with 33 Mbps in areas where there is no 5G present,” the firm said.

Analysis of the data showed that for an entire market to achieve an average network speed of 100 Mbps, operators need to extend 5G coverage to 40% of that market. Only seven of the 32 cities it tested achieved that baseline, and in each case only operator hit the mark: Vodafone was the operator in question in four of the cities and EE in three. The cities were Belfast, Birmingham, Cardiff, Glasgow, Liverpool, London and Manchester. In Belfast, EE achieved overall speeds of 102 Mbps with 5G coverage of 41%, while in Manchester, Vodafone recorded an average overall throughput of 166 Mbps with coverage of 70%, to give two examples.

“Deploying a network nationwide isn’t instantaneous and each of the operators will face their own independent challenges,” said GWS chief executive Paul Carter, in a statement. “While we’ve seen significant improvements in speeds due to 5G, to realise predictable 5G coverage across entire cities and other locations, it’s simply going to take time.”

5G coverage hype is all very well, but consumers are for the most part predominantly concerned about the reliability of their existing mobile network.

And on that score, O2 comes out on top, closely followed by EE, which should perhaps be cause for concern for Vodafone and Three. It’s not too much of a stretch to suggest that consumers will make their 5G buying choices based on their experiences on 4G…and on handset deals, of course, but this is a story for another day.

O2 ranked top on reliability in 18 of the 37 markets tested, while EE took the crown in 16 markets; Vodafone won out in just three locations and Three in none. O2 is also the most reliable on the UK’s major motorways.

“These findings are borne out by GWS’s consumer survey, which found that even during the lockdown, 39% of O2 customers were always satisfied with their network’s reliability, compared to 33% of EE customers, 31% of Vodafone customers and 30% of Three customers,” GWS said.

Those numbers may look a little low, but “always satisfied” is a difficult milestone to hit. It’s not often customers are always happy with anything in this industry.

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Its latest nationwide test assessed the mobile network performance of the four major operators – EE, O2, Three and Vodafone, and is the first to incorporate 5G network performance into each company’s OneScore rankings.

Based on network scanner testing, 5G is now available across 37% of the markets tested by GWS. The report shows that once a market reaches a certain level of 5G coverage, average network speeds are significantly boosted. Average speeds during network capacity stress tests where 5G is delivered are 150 Mbps across all operators, compared with 33 Mbps in areas where there is no 5G present.

GWS also analysed the test results to determine what level of 5G coverage across an entire market (city or town) is needed to achieve a certain minimum threshold of speed for that market. GWS discovered that in order to achieve a baseline of 100 Mbps average network speed throughout an entire market, operators must first achieve around 40% coverage in that market.

In addition to achievements in speed, testing revealed that success rates for tasks completed with 5G were well over 99% across all operators.

The report found that each operator is approaching its deployment strategy differently. In particular, operators are focusing on deploying 5G at different locations and with varying percentages of 5G per city, town or motorway. Further, Vodafone’s network was completing tasks on 5G roughly three quarters of the time 5G signal was available, while the others were completing tasks on 5G around half the time.

Throughout testing, GWS found that 5G signal is, on average, available 40% of the time in UK cities, 16% in towns, and 11% on motorways, while at the same time the network is completing tasks on 5G just 23% of the time in cities, 8% in towns, and only 5% of the time along motorways.

In terms of overall network reliability – clearly more crucial than ever right now, as the pandemic continues – O2 earned the title of the UK’s Most Reliable Network for the third year running, ranking top in 18 out of 37 locations tested in the UK according to GWS’s OneScore network reliability testing. O2 is also the most reliable on the UK’s major motorways, M1, M6, M25 and M62. It is followed in the overall rankings by EE, which has wins in 16 locations. Vodafone has wins in 3 locations while Three has no wins.

These findings are borne out by GWS’s consumer survey, which found that even during the lockdown 39% of O2 customers were always satisfied with their network’s reliability, compared to 33% of EE customers, 31% of Vodafone customers and 30% of Three customers.

Dr Paul Carter, CEO, GWS, commented: “As next-generation technology is added into the network at more locations with overall speeds increasing and as new, feature-rich devices are introduced, customer expectations about network reliability remain constant – they want a network that they can rely on that will deliver the services they need.

“The results of our latest national testing show signs of good things to come for those with 5G-enabled phones across the country. Deploying a network nationwide isn’t instantaneous and each of the operators will face their own independent challenges. While we’ve seen significant improvements in speeds due to 5G, to realise predictable 5G coverage across entire cities and other locations, it’s simply going to take time.”

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LONDON, 19 February 2021 – Leading mobile network benchmarking firm Global Wireless Solutions (GWS) has today released the results of its latest nationwide drive test assessing mobile network performance of the four major operators.

The latest national test – the first conducted by GWS which incorporates 5G network performance into the company’s OneScore rankings – reveals that good progress is being made in the deployment of 5G throughout the UK by EE, O2, Three and Vodafone. Based on network scanner testing, 5G is now available across 37% of the markets driven; in addition, throughput testing shows average speeds boosted nearly five times in areas where 5G is available.

5G: Covering the bases

The performance test results paint a clear picture of progress for the ongoing deployment of 5G across the UK. In particular, the data highlights how once a market reaches a certain level of 5G coverage, average network speeds are significantly boosted. Average speeds during network capacity stress tests where 5G is delivered are 150 Mbps across all operators, compared with 33 Mbps in areas where there is no 5G present.

Further, GWS also analysed the test results to determine what level of 5G coverage across an entire market (city or town) is needed to achieve a certain minimum threshold of speed for that market.  GWS discovered that in order to achieve a baseline of 100 Mbps average network speed throughout an entire market, operators must first achieve around 40% coverage in that market (for consumers, 100 Mbps means that downloading a HD movie should take around two minutes).

GWS found that this baseline occurred in only 7 out of the 32 cities and towns tested (and in each instance only one operator in each city reached the baseline). In particular, Belfast, Birmingham, Cardiff, Glasgow, Liverpool, London and Manchester recorded average overall speeds in excess of 100 Mbps on any operator, with Vodafone accounting for four of these values and EE for three. And as 5G coverage expands, faster speeds are more likely to be consistently achieved. For example, in Belfast, EE achieved overall speeds of 102 Mbps with 5G coverage of 41%, whereas in Manchester, Vodafone recorded an average overall throughput of 166 Mbps with coverage of 70%.

In addition to achievements in speed, testing revealed that success rates for tasks completed with 5G were well over 99% across all operators.

5G: Running different races

According to analysis of GWS’s device and scanner tests, tasks completed on devices via 5G tends only to occur in areas with strong 5G signal, rather than everywhere it is available (relying instead on 4G). While 5G signal is available across more than a third (37%) of the markets tested by GWS, results show that it is only being delivered to 5G-enabled handsets one fifth (20%) of the time.

Even when 5G is available, it is clear from the data that each operator is approaching its deployment strategy differently. In particular, operators are focusing on deploying 5G at different locations and with varying percentages of 5G per city, town or motorway. Further, Vodafone’s network was completing tasks on 5G roughly three quarters of the time 5G signal was available, while the others were completing tasks on 5G around half the time.

Throughout testing, GWS found that 5G signal is, on average, available 40% of the time in UK cities,  16% in towns, and 11% on motorways, while at the same time the network is completing tasks on 5G just 23% of the time in cities, 8% in towns, and only 5% of the time along motorways. In fact, deployment of 5G along UK motorways appears to be progressing more slowly, with operators placing less emphasis on rolling out coverage along the nation’s highways. While full 5G will likely be required for enabling advanced applications of the future such as autonomous vehicles, today’s network needs on motorways are more limited and can be facilitated by existing network technologies.

Reliability of existing networks still paramount

While the deployment of 5G is resulting in the delivery of faster speeds, it’s still more important than ever (i.e., during this work from home period) for mobile operators to provide robust, reliable service. In terms of overall network reliability, O2 earns the title of the UK’s Most Reliable Network for the third year running, ranking top in 18 out of 37 locations tested in the UK according to GWS’s latest OneScore network reliability testing (Figure 1). O2 is also the most reliable on the UK’s major motorways, M1, M6, M25 and M62. It is followed in the overall rankings by EE which has wins in 16 locations. Vodafone has wins in 3 locations while Three has no wins.

These findings are borne out by GWS’s consumer survey, which found that even during the lockdown 39% of O2 customers were always satisfied with their network’s reliability, compared to 33% of EE customers, 31% of Vodafone customers and 30% of Three customers.

When looking at the regional rankings (which combine the results from all operators), for the second year running the best UK city for reliability remains Liverpool, with Nottingham now the least reliable.

Good news for consumers in lockdown

The results are encouraging for consumers currently navigating the ongoing pandemic – especially since the need to have acceptable speeds is crucial for home workers. With consumers likely to switch to their mobile network when poor WiFi fails them, it’s encouraging to see that 84% of O2 customers are happy with their speeds at home, as are 78% of EE customers, and 82% of Three and Vodafone customers. As 5G continues to roll out across the UK, consumers can look forward to marked improvements in speeds.

Consumers also have high expectations about the rollout of 5G, with 38% believing that faster 5G deployment could help improve economic recovery after the pandemic. Additionally, 26% believe that it could help fix the problem of the digital divide around the country.

Paul Carter, CEO, Global Wireless Solutions, commented: “As next-generation technology is added into the network at more locations with overall speeds increasing and as new, feature-rich devices are introduced, customer expectations about network reliability remain constant – they want a network that they can rely on that will deliver the services they need.

The results of our latest national testing show signs of good things to come for those with 5G-enabled phones across the country. Deploying a network nationwide isn’t instantaneous and each of the operators will face their own independent challenges. While we’ve seen significant improvements in speeds due to 5G, to realise predictable 5G coverage across entire cities and other locations, it’s simply going to take time.”

Figure 1.

Methodology

The detailed assessment involved GWS’ engineers conducting nearly 1.2 million data and voice task tests on iOS and Android devices across the UK, alongside consumer research polling of 2,007 smartphone users. The assessment is the only study of its kind to combine controlled scientific network testing with a deep analysis of consumer behaviour and expectations of performance.

Testing of EE, O2, Three and Vodafone networks involved 37 major cities, towns and roads, and took place between the 26^th of October 26^th and the 4^th of December, 2020. The tests were conducted using the GWS OneMeasure App running on iPhone devices, Rohde & Schwarz’s Freerider SW using Samsung Galaxy devices, and the GWS Mobistat data evaluation and reporting platform.  

GWS conducted its broader quantitative consumer polling with Censuswide.  Fieldwork was undertaken between the months of October and December 2020. The survey was carried out online. The figures have been weighted and are representative of all UK adults (aged 18+).

Media Contact

Megan Hughes-Evans
Diffusion PR
+44 (0)207 291 0238
[email protected]

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GWS states that their engineers conducted a total of 1.2 million data and voice task tests (described as “controlled scientific network testing“) – via iOS and Android devices (using the GWS OneMeasure App) – in order to evaluate mobile network performance across the United Kingdom (on both 4G and, for the first time, 5G networks). In addition, they also conducted some quantitative online consumer polling with Censuswide (between October and December 2020).

The survey found that, even during the lockdown, some 39% of O2 customers were always satisfied with their network’s reliability, compared to 33% of EE customers, 31% of Vodafone customers and just 30% of Three UK’s customers. Similarly, 84% of O2’s customers are happy with their mobile broadband speeds at home, as are 78% of EE customers, and 82% of Three UK and Vodafone customers.

Consumers also have high expectations about the on-going rollout of ultrafast 5G networks, with 38% believing that faster 5G deployments could help improve the economic recovery after the pandemic. Additionally, 26% believe that it could help fix the problem of the digital divide around the country (debatable given the spectrum limits of rural connectivity, where achieving wide coverage is cost preferable to faster speeds).

Key Findings of the GWS 2021 Mobile Study

— Average speeds during network capacity stress tests where 5G is delivered are 150 Mbps across all operators, compared with 33Mbps in areas where there is no 5G present.

— Success rates for tasks completed with 5G were well over 99% across all operators.

— A 5G signal was found to be available across 37% of the markets tested by GWS, but results show that it is only being delivered to 5G-enabled handsets 20% of the time.

— GWS discovered that in order to achieve a baseline of 100Mbps average network speed throughout an entire market, operators must first achieve around 40% coverage via 5G in that market. This baseline occurred in only 7 out of the 32 cities and towns tested (and in each instance only one operator in each city reached the baseline).

— Belfast, Birmingham, Cardiff, Glasgow, Liverpool, London and Manchester all recorded average overall speeds in excess of 100Mbps on any operator, with Vodafone accounting for four of these values and EE for three. And as 5G coverage expands, faster speeds are more likely to be consistently achieved. For example, in Belfast, EE achieved overall speeds of 102Mbps with 5G coverage of 41%, whereas in Manchester, Vodafone recorded an average overall throughput of 166Mbps with coverage of 70%.

— GWS found that 5G signal is, on average, available 40% of the time in UK cities, 16% in towns, and 11% on motorways, while at the same time the network is completing tasks on 5G just 23% of the time in cities, 8% in towns, and only 5% of the time along motorways.

In terms of overall network reliability, O2 earns the title of the UK’s Most Reliable Network for the third year running, ranking top in 18 out of 37 locations tested. O2 is also the most reliable on the UK’s major motorways – M1, M6, M25 and M62. The operator is followed in the overall rankings by EE, which has wins in 16 locations, and Vodafone with wins in 3 locations, while Three UK has no wins.

We should point out that this is one of the few benchmarks where O2 comes top (EE and Vodafone are normally the ones battling over the top spot in other studies).

GWS OneScore Reliability Winners by Market

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Research from Global Wireless Solutions (GWS) has found that good progress in 5G deployments is already making a “marked improvement” in UK speeds.

According to GWS’ network scanner testing, 5G is available across 37 percent of the 37 major cities, towns, and roads tested.

Throughput testing has shown that average speeds are boosted nearly five times in areas where 5G is available. Across all operators, 5G areas are delivering 150Mbps average speeds compared to 33Mbps elsewhere.

GWS notes that average network speeds are significantly boosted when a market reaches a certain level of 5G penetration. To achieve a baseline of 100Mbps average, operators must achieve around 40 percent 5G coverage in that market.

Only 7 of the 32 tested cities and towns have reached the aforementioned 40 percent baseline; London, Manchester, Glasgow, Birmingham, Cardiff, Liverpool, and Belfast. Furthermore, only one operator has reached the baseline in each market. Vodafone accounts for four of these and EE for three.

As 5G coverage expands, higher average speeds become more consistent. In Belfast, for example, EE achieved overall speeds of 102 Mbps with 5G coverage of 41 percent. In Manchester, Vodafone recorded an average overall throughput of 166 Mbps with coverage of 70 percent.

Dr Paul Carter, CEO of Global Wireless Solutions, commented:

“As next-generation technology is added into the network at more locations with overall speeds increasing and as new, feature-rich devices are introduced, customer expectations about network reliability remain constant – they want a network that they can rely on that will deliver the services they need. 

The results of our latest national testing show signs of good things to come for those with 5G-enabled phones across the country. Deploying a network nationwide isn’t instantaneous and each of the operators will face their own independent challenges. 

While we’ve seen significant improvements in speeds due to 5G, to realise predictable 5G coverage across entire cities and other locations, it’s simply going to take time.”

4G is currently being used for the majority of tasks even in areas where 5G is available. While 5G is available across more than one-third of the markets tested by GWS, it is only being delivered to 5G-enabled handsets 23 percent of the time in cities, 8 percent in towns, and just 5 percent of the time along motorways.

Few applications requiring 5G are currently available so it’s clear 4G is being used for the majority of tasks to conserve power, especially in areas where a 5G signal is available but weak. The general reliability of networks is, therefore, more important to most people than 5G at this point.

According to GWS’ OneScore network reliability testing, O2 is the UK’s most reliable network for the third year—ranking top in 18 of the 37 locations tested:

A consumer survey carried out by GWS backs its network testing findings that O2 is the most reliable UK network.

84 percent of O2 customers are happy with their speeds at home, 82 percent of Three and Vodafone customers, and 78 percent of EE customers. During lockdown, 39 percent of O2 customers were “always satisfied” with their network’s reliability compared to 33 percent of EE customers, 31 percent of Vodafone customers, and 30 percent of Three customers.

In GWS’ network reliability testing, EE followed O2 with wins in 16 locations, Vodafone in 3, and Three with none.

The major city with the most reliable mobile connectivity remains Liverpool while Nottingham is now the least.

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All four UK operators have contributed to the good progress of 5G deployments says GWS

O2 has retained top spot as the UK’s most reliable mobile network according to Global Wireless Solutions (GWS) latest nationwide study.

The operator performed the best of the four big networks in 18 out of the 37 UK towns, cities and motorways sampled.

O2 just edged out EE, which ranked the best in 16 cities, followed by Vodafone on three, while Three didn’t come top in any area.

However EE topped reliability for some of the UK’s biggest cities, including London, Bristol, Edinburgh, Liverpool, Manchester and Newcastle.

O2 claimed Belfast, Birmingham, Glasgow, Leeds and Oxford among its most reliable areas.

Liverpool is the UK’s best city for reliability for the second year running, while Nottingham is the least reliable.

5G drive

The study was also the first to incorporate the performance of 5G into the company’s OneScore rankings.

GWS says that “good progress is being made in the deployment of 5G” by all four UK operators, as average speeds boosted nearly five times in areas where 5G is available.

Global Wireless Solutions CEO Dr Paul Carter commented: “As next-generation technology is added into the network at more locations with overall speeds increasing and as new, feature-rich devices are introduced, customer expectations about network reliability remain constant – they want a network that they can rely on that will deliver the services they need.”

Testing by GWS found that once areas reach a certain level of 5G coverage, the average network speeds are significantly boosted.

This was backed up by capacity stress tests that revealed average speeds where 5G is delivered are 150 Mbps across all operators, compared with 33 Mbps in areas where there is no 5G present.

Room for improvement

Based on network scanner testing 5G is now available across 37 per cent of markets, but is only being delivered to 5G-enabled handsets one fifth (20 per cent) of the time.

On average 5G signal is available 40 per cent of the time to UK cities, 16 per cent in towns and 11 per cent on motorways.

At the same time the network is completing tasks on 5G just 23 per cent of the time in cities, eight per cent in towns, and only five per cent of the time along motorways.

Carter adds: “The results of our latest national testing show signs of good things to come for those with 5G-enabled phones across the country. Deploying a network nationwide isn’t instantaneous and each of the operators will face their own independent challenges.

“While we’ve seen significant improvements in speeds due to 5G, to realise predictable 5G coverage across entire cities and other locations, it’s simply going to take time.”

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The national test – the first conducted by GWS which incorporates 5G network performance into the company’s OneScore rankings – reveals that good progress is being made in the deployment of 5G throughout the UK by EE, O2, Three and Vodafone. Based on network scanner testing, 5G is now available across 37 per cent of the markets driven; in addition, throughput testing shows average speeds boosted nearly five times in areas where 5G is available.

5G: Covering the bases

The performance test results paint a clear picture of progress for the ongoing deployment of 5G across the UK. In particular, the data highlights how once a market reaches a certain level of 5G coverage, average network speeds are significantly boosted. Average speeds during network capacity stress tests where 5G is delivered are 150 Mbps across all operators, compared with 33 Mbps in areas where there is no 5G present.

Further, GWS also analysed the test results to determine what level of 5G coverage across an entire market (city or town) is needed to achieve a certain minimum threshold of speed for that market.  GWS discovered that in order to achieve a baseline of 100 Mbps average network speed throughout an entire market, operators must first achieve around 40 per cent coverage in that market (for consumers, 100 Mbps means that downloading a HD movie should take around two minutes).

GWS found that this baseline occurred in only 7 out of the 32 cities and towns tested (and in each instance only one operator in each city reached the baseline). In particular, Belfast, Birmingham, Cardiff, Glasgow, Liverpool, London and Manchester recorded average overall speeds in excess of 100 Mbps on any operator, with Vodafone accounting for four of these values and EE for three. And as 5G coverage expands, faster speeds are more likely to be consistently achieved. For example, in Belfast, EE achieved overall speeds of 102 Mbps with 5G coverage of 41 per cent, whereas in Manchester, Vodafone recorded an average overall throughput of 166 Mbps with coverage of 70 per cent.

In addition to achievements in speed, testing revealed that success rates for tasks completed with 5G were well over 99 per cent across all operators.

5G: Running different races

According to analysis of GWS’s device and scanner tests, tasks completed on devices via 5G tends only to occur in areas with strong 5G signal, rather than everywhere it is available (relying instead on 4G). While 5G signal is available across more than a third (37 per cent) of the markets tested by GWS, results show that it is only being delivered to 5G-enabled handsets one fifth (20 per cent) of the time.

Even when 5G is available, it is clear from the data that each operator is approaching its deployment strategy differently. In particular, operators are focusing on deploying 5G at different locations and with varying percentages of 5G per city, town or motorway. Further, Vodafone’s network was completing tasks on 5G roughly three quarters of the time 5G signal was available, while the others were completing tasks on 5G around half the time.

Throughout testing, GWS found that 5G signal is, on average, available 40 per cent of the time in UK cities, 16 per cent in towns, and 11 per cent on motorways, while at the same time the network is completing tasks on 5G just 23 per cent of the time in cities, 8 per cent in towns, and only 5 per cent of the time along motorways. In fact, deployment of 5G along UK motorways appears to be progressing more slowly, with operators placing less emphasis on rolling out coverage along the nation’s highways. While full 5G will likely be required for enabling advanced applications of the future such as autonomous vehicles, today’s network needs on motorways are more limited and can be facilitated by existing network technologies.

Reliability of existing networks still paramount

While the deployment of 5G is resulting in the delivery of faster speeds, it’s still more important than ever (i.e., during this work from home period) for mobile operators to provide robust, reliable service. In terms of overall network reliability, O2 earns the title of the UK’s Most Reliable Network for the third year running, ranking top in 18 out of 37 locations tested in the UK according to GWS’s latest OneScore network reliability testing (see Fig. 1). O2 is also the most reliable on the UK’s major motorways, M1, M6, M25 and M62. It is followed in the overall rankings by EE which has wins in 16 locations. Vodafone has wins in 3 locations while Three has no wins.

These findings are borne out by GWS’s consumer survey, which found that even during the lockdown 39 per cent of O2 customers were always satisfied with their network’s reliability, compared to 33 per cent of EE customers, 31 per cent of Vodafone customers and 30 per cent of Three customers.

When looking at the regional rankings (which combine the results from all operators), for the second year running the best UK city for reliability remains Liverpool, with Nottingham now the least reliable.

Good news for consumers in lockdown

The results are encouraging for consumers currently navigating the ongoing pandemic – especially since the need to have acceptable speeds is crucial for home workers. With consumers likely to switch to their mobile network when poor WiFi fails them, it’s encouraging to see that 84 per cent of O2 customers are happy with their speeds at home, as are 78 per cent of EE customers, and 82 per cent of Three and Vodafone customers. As 5G continues to roll out across the UK, consumers can look forward to marked improvements in speeds.

Consumers also have high expectations about the rollout of 5G, with 38 per cent believing that faster 5G deployment could help improve economic recovery after the pandemic. Additionally, 26 per cent believe that it could help fix the problem of the digital divide around the country.

Dr Paul Carter, CEO, Global Wireless Solutions, commented: “As next-generation technology is added into the network at more locations with overall speeds increasing and as new, feature-rich devices are introduced, customer expectations about network reliability remain constant – they want a network that they can rely on that will deliver the services they need. The results of our latest national testing show signs of good things to come for those with 5G-enabled phones across the country. Deploying a network nationwide isn’t instantaneous and each of the operators will face their own independent challenges. While we’ve seen significant improvements in speeds due to 5G, to realise predictable 5G coverage across entire cities and other locations, it’s simply going to take time.”

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The UK 5G network is failing to live up to its promise depsite strong growth across much of the country, new research has claimed.

The next-generation networks are only being delivered to 5G-enabled phones a fifth (20%) of the time according to new findings from benchmarking firm Global Wireless Solutions (GWS).

This is despite 5G now being deployed across more than a third (37%) of the UK, with signifcant gaps in performance already in certain areas.

UK 5G strength

The benefits of 5G are becoming evident to users across the UK, with average speeds boosted nearly five times in areas where 5G is available.

GWS found that the strenght and reliability of 5G connections can differ for users living in the same town or city due to the way different operators have deployed their networks.

Overall, GWS’ testing found that 5G signal is, on average, available 40% of the time in UK cities and 16% in towns – however at the same time, the network is completing tasks on 5G just 23% of the time in cities and only 8% in towns.

O2 was found to be the UK’s most reliable network, ranking top in 18 out of 37 locations tested to take the award for the third year in a row.

“As next-generation technology is added into the network at more locations with overall speeds increasing and as new, feature-rich devices are introduced, customer expectations about network reliability remain constant – they want a network that they can rely on that will deliver the services they need,” said Dr Paul Carter, CEO, Global Wireless Solutions.

“The results of our latest national testing show signs of good things to come for those with 5G-enabled phones across the country. Deploying a network nationwide isn’t instantaneous and each of the operators will face their own independent challenges. While we’ve seen significant improvements in speeds due to 5G, to realise predictable 5G coverage across entire cities and other locations, it’s simply going to take time.”

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For many working professionals, however, the past ten months (and counting) have been dominated by home working. While lockdowns may have tightened and eased during that time, many have still been ‘locked down’ professionally by continuing to work from home throughout the crisis. And even when the government did allow workers to return to their office, many didn’t, and are unlikely to anytime soon.

Since teleworking is seemingly a lifestyle change that will be with us for a while, it’s important to ensure that workers have access to the tools they need to perform their duties effectively and efficiently. Access to a ready and reliable internet connection is naturally crucial in this regard.  Unfortunately the findings of GWS’ most recent performance testing highlight that this is not the case for a sizeable proportion of the UK’s growing remote workforce.

A new ‘digital divide’ is causing professional issues for home-workers in all parts of the country. No longer an urban/rural split, almost a third of properties right across the UK do not have access to sufficient internet speeds to engage, communicate and work effectively.

Though the UK government has ambitions to extend ‘super-fast’ connectivity to large numbers of its citizens, the fact remains that 30% of people are struggling to hit even 2 Mbps download or 1 Mbps upload, based on performance testing of home internet connections.

These issues are faced by similar proportions of people in urban, suburban and rural locations, highlighting the nationwide nature of the digital divide that has been laid bare by pandemic remote working.

The problems caused by insufficient connectivity are numerous. Brits are reporting a slew of professional issues ranging from being unable to connect with colleagues on video calls and conferences, to emails and work documents not being sent, to missed deadlines and more.

Poor speeds are causing personal problems, too. Those at home risk feelings of frustration and anxiety when they can’t connect with people online, and more than half have reported feeling isolated because of their inability to communicate effectively via digital means.

Without sufficient speeds, the personal challenges of the past year have been amplified – which has also had a knock-on professional impact as well. Half of home-working professionals feel their own competency is being judged when internet connectivity is bad, and there may be good reason for this as just over a third admit they do question the competency of their colleagues when they suffer from a poor connection.

To sum it up, this new, slightly ‘disparaging’ culture is causing people to worry that they will be professionally judged when an unstable connection interrupts work communications and processes.

Where before, the office might have served as a ‘leveller’ against this type of disparity, the remote-working revolution we have witnessed in the past year looks to have opened up a new digital disconnect in the professional environment and move the connectivity responsibility to the worker.

Employees stuck in those urban, suburban and rural locations that suffer from slow speeds should remember that they have the right to request ‘decent’ broadband services, as per Ofcom guidelines. ‘Decent’ is considered speeds at least 10 Mbps for download and 1 Mbps for upload – which our testing found that only 64% of homes were able to achieve.

Further, companies might want to take a more active role in helping improve their employees’ connectivity. It’s not just about employees judging each other’s competence; ultimately, it’s about the impact on productivity – the business of running a business while attracting and keeping customers happy.

In addition, home broadband networks typically involve wired transmission at some point, so switching to the mobile network can be a good solution when connectivity problems are encountered. Mobile coverage has improved greatly and will only improve further with the rollout of next-generation 5G networks across the country.

Alongside 5G mobile networks, 5G broadband will also see an intensified rollout in 2021 and beyond, which could be quicker and cheaper to deploy than the last mile of wired networks and fibre-to-the-premises connectivity.

The future, it seems, may increasingly be shaped by flexible, remote-first working. In fact, over a third of traditionally office-based workers reported that they were unlikely to return even when premises are able to reopen; and the single biggest reason for not returning is because their company was choosing not to reopen offices.

So home-based offices going completely wireless should not seem unrealistic and is certainly a viable alternative. And if 5G can deliver on its promise of fast and reliable connectivity, it could consign the perils of poor remote connectivity to the past for Britain’s growing remote workforce.

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At a time when people are reliant on broadband to work, learn and order essentials in the third UK lockdown, research from UK information and guidance service Citizens Advice has made the alarming discovery that large swathes of the UK population are struggling to pay their broadband bill.

Moreover, the study found that while more than one in six people were struggling to afford their broadband during the third lockdown, in the first lockdown that began in March 2020, particular financial pressure was felt by a number of certain groups, including people with children, disabled people, people from Black, Asian or ethnic minority backgrounds, those who were shielding and young people.

The Citizens Advice study was carried out by Opinium, which surveyed 2,008 adults online, between 15 and 19 January 2021. Of the respondents, 82% (1,646) had broadband. Data was weighted to be nationally representative of the UK adult population.

In a 2020 study, Opinium surveyed 3,454 adults online, between 14 and 27 August 2020. Questions on affordability and usage were shown to 92% of respondents (3,190) with the internet at home. Data was also weighted to be nationally representative of the UK adult population.

Broadband customers in receipt of low-income benefits such as Universal Credit were almost twice as likely to struggle to pay their bill as other customers. In the 2020 survey, 28% of those on means-tested benefits said they struggled to afford their broadband bill generally, compared with 16% of the adult population. Towards the end of last year, an estimated 2.3 million people had fallen behind on their broadband bill payments.

The research findings come as mobile and broadband communications providers are reacting to make sure that during the current lockdown children from all backgrounds, especially those from underprivileged backgrounds, do not lose out due to education being online, a situation that the UK government says will persist until 8 March at the earliest. The past few weeks have seen the UK’s mobile providers cut data package pricing for those who are disadvantaged and introduce free and cheap broadband offers, some dedicated for education.

Yet research in November 2020 found that inadequate home internet speeds had contributed to a digital divide during the first UK lockdown, with network benchmarking firm Global Wireless Solutions (GWS) finding connectivity speeds considered inadequate in 30% of properties.

In December, research from Ofcom revealed alarming discrepancies between the availability and affordability of broadband in the UK. The comms regulator estimated that more than 880,000 children live in households with only a mobile internet connection and 43,000 premises could not access either a decent fixed broadband service or good 4G coverage indoors. It also cited a report from the Sutton Trust that showed just 10% of teachers reported that all of their pupils had access to the internet for learning.

More worryingly, Ofcom found that if households were paying the average £37 a month for landline and broadband, this would take around four times the proportion of a low-income household’s budget, compared with an average household. It added that the pandemic had cemented the fact that broadband is an essential utility, not a luxury for those who can afford it, and called on the UK government and Ofcom to fast-track these plans by making it compulsory for all providers to offer affordable tariffs to people on low-income benefits.

“Without broadband, we struggle to teach our children, order food and medicines, work or search for a job,” said Alistair Cromwell, acting chief executive of Citizens Advice. “While the government has provided free laptops and mobile data to help children study at home, these are ultimately just a sticking plaster. To tackle the digital divide, it must take urgent action to ensure everyone can afford their broadband, no matter which provider they are with.”

The organisation strongly urged all providers to consider offering cheaper tariffs for those on a low income or who are struggling financially, noting that only three of the largest 13 firms currently offer these tariffs.

Reacting to the findings, Phil Sorksy, SVP, Service Providers for EMEA at comms technology supplier CommScope said that the news that one in six households is struggling to afford broadband is a stark reminder that the digital divide is still very much present across our nation.

“We now all depend on speedy and reliable broadband as a key part of our everyday lives, and its significance continues to grow,” he said. “Broadband connectivity plays a key role as an enabler of economic growth and prosperity across communities – such connectivity will be the difference between success and failure, particularly for smaller, home-based businesses, enabling them to reach a global audience. And with the lines between “home” and “office” increasingly blurred due to the rise of remote working – especially in the current lockdown – having access to affordable connectivity is crucial so that local economies and communities can truly thrive.”

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2020 was a year of many things. The pandemic has caused unprecedented upheaval for the world’s economies. It has also instigated a swifter and much wider shift towards a remote-working future than many would perhaps have predicted. At the same time, 2020 was also a formative year in relation to the introduction of 5G technologies, with operators across the globe investing heavily in spectrum and infrastructure.

Understandably, much of the initial stage of the 5G rollout has focused on more populous cities and metropolitan areas – indeed, based on performance testing of 5G across UK cities conducted by GWS, we are already seeing promising speeds within urban locations. Obviously, a full 5G future should not focus solely on built-up regions. The promise of 5G and the enhancements that next-generation network technology will bring – in terms of speed, latency, capacity, reliability and overall wireless performance – will have a positive impact on the businesses and consumers that reside in rural areas. This will perhaps be even more apparent in terms of rural access to remote health care, education, and commerce. Thus, at some point in the near future, we’d expect operators to place increasing focus on rural deployments.

Going remote

While many city-dwellers across the UK can already take advantage of superfast fiber broadband and reliable mobile network connectivity, ensuring ready and reliable access in rural areas has often been a trickier task for wireless operators and internet service providers. This is not exclusively the case, of course. A recent study conducted by GWS discovered that the UK ‘digital divide’ is in fact deeper and more disparate than once thought, with almost a third of properties across both urban and rural locations in the UK struggling to access internet speeds deemed adequate to live, work and play (i.e. speeds at least 2 Mbps download and 1 Mbps upload). Regardless, there remains a range of challenges when it comes to extending robust connectivity to less densely populated areas – challenges which make certain technologies such as fiber less feasible particularly for those communities that are more isolated.

For these rural and hard to reach communities currently lacking reliable network infrastructure, deploying 5G broadband could be quicker and less costly than deploying fiber-to-the-premises. In general, the technology should be more cost-effective and easier to deploy than the last mile of wired networks. 5G broadband service charges are also likely to be more affordable for more consumers when compared to current monthly costs for fiber connectivity. This would positively impact not only consumers at home but also the small businesses, schools, medical facilities and other essential entities within these communities. With standalone 5G, both businesses and consumers could have access to low latency, ultrafast speeds that would enable the same sorts of home applications possible over fiber-to-the-premises.

Relative to current-generation networks – both 4G wireless and wired broadband – the increased speed, reduced latency and improved capacity of 5G broadband will enable consumers to use more devices reliably and simultaneously on their home network. It will also allow for streaming higher definition content, taking advantage of IoT applications, and much more. For example, remote learning and telehealth applications – both of which have been crucial during the pandemic – should be more fulfilling with a greater range of capabilities powered by 5G broadband.

Hope and hurdles

Many rural consumers are excited about the prospect of 5G, it seems – the proportion of those in rural areas who feel that faster 5G deployment could boost their current economic situation outweighs those that don’t by a margin of almost three to one, according to the study. But there is still some work to be done when it comes to effectively communicating the benefits of 5G to all those in these areas. Messaging around 5G has been frequent but often fairly limited in scope, with too much focus on one single aspect – faster speeds – at the expense of more multi-layered messages around the wide range of tangible improvements that 5G will bring to people’s lives. This may have helped stymie people’s understanding of 5G, when it will be available and the sorts of benefits it will bring.

Alongside the operators, authorities and other consumer facing groups should be educating the public about the scope of improvements that 5G will bring. Governments can also be a positive catalyst in the development of 5G networks particularly in rural communities. For example, allowing easier access to public furniture for site deployments and updating outdated regulations around network tower installation are just some of areas where local and national authorities can assist and facilitate.

Lastly, it’s worth remembering that people in the UK who are suffering from poor connectivity do have a right to request a decent broadband service, per Ofcom standards. But as 5G continues its nationwide rollout, many may instead choose to go completely wireless, connecting exclusively to the next-generation of networks – 5G mobile and fixed wireless – via their mobile operator.

• Dr. Paul Carter is President and CEO of Global Wireless Solutions (GWS).

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