If you are thinking about signing up for ultra-fast 4G mobile Internet services, then you probably want to enjoy the benefits of media streaming. Whilst the majority of consumers were happy with their 3G mobile Internet services, most with the means are now looking to enjoy faster speeds on their smartphones and tablets.
2G vs. 3G vs. 4G Networks
When mobile phones gained popularity back in the late 1990’s and early 2000’s, there was only the 2G network available. This network basically allowed users to send text messages and make phone calls and this was considered good enough. Later came the smartphones and the 3G network. Smartphones contain many features such as digital cameras, applications and Internet browsers which need decent data connections for maximum flexibility and functionality. The 4G network is an evolution of the 3G network, and basically means data speeds which are up to ten times faster.
How Is the 4G Coverage Across the UK?
The 4G LTE network is still very new technology and is still in rollout. It is not available across the entire UK but only in major cities and some suburbs. Before signing up for any 4G network service, you may want to check that your area, including city and suburb, have this network installed and that you can access it. While the 4G speeds are impressive, it would not be a wise decision to sign up if you are unable to access the service. It is a good idea to use a Vodafone signal checker, for example, if you wish to sign up to Vodafone 4G services.
A Look at 4G Services in the UK
There are a number of companies providing mobile and Internet services to their customers. They include companies like Orange, O2 and Vodafone, 3, Tesco Mobile and so on. Rolling out the 4G network has been a challenge but the process is moving forward day by day. EverythingEverywhere (EE) is leading the race for full 4G coverage, having had a ten month head start on the competition. They expect rollout to 98% of the UK by the end of 2014. Vodafone has the same coverage target, but is looking to achieve it by the end of 2015.
Vodafone 4G Services and the Vodafone Signal Checker
For a long time now, UK customers looking for reliable 4G services had to sign up to EE because of its reliable 4G network. However, in August of last year, Vodafone launched its 4G LTE network in London. The network rollout then proceeded to Leicester, Coventry, Birmingham, Sheffield and lots of other cities. This developing coverage and a successful test period has made Vodafone a viable option in the 4G internet market for many.
The 4G Service from Vodafone
While the service is largely available in cities, many smartphone users find it expensive and slightly unreliable. However, users do enjoy lots of freebies and extras such that the service is worth it. This is especially true for music and sports fans. A six month subscription to Spotify or Sky Sports Mobile is there to welcome those who sign up to Vodafone 4G basic services. Using a Vodafone signal checker, tests have indicated speeds of up to 56MBps in London boroughs. These speeds are more than ten times faster than 3G speeds available in the same area.
A Look at O2 Modern 4G LTE Service
When 4G services were initially rolled out, the testers wanted to ensure the service compared to others in the market, especially in terms of speed, but also reliability. While the roll out is now in advanced stages and O2 4G is present in over one hundred different locations within the UK, it still has a long way to go. Users in non-4G areas are always switched back to the 3G network, which, at speeds of 16.3MBps, is far and away faster than most ADSL home broadband Internet services.
Impressive 4G Speeds
The testers were happy with the results as the download speeds were at an impressive level of 23.3MBps, whilst the fastest speed recorded was 65.8MBps, which is really rather awesome. The O2 network now covers about 95% of the entire city of London. The company offers a reliable and trustworthy 4G LTE service where they have rolled out.
How About Orange 4G Coverage?
Orange is an established mobile telephony company in the UK. It was established back in 1994. It has rolled out its 4G network through EE, in joint venture with T-Mobile. EE provides services to Orange and T-Mobile customers when they want to upgrade to 4G. They were the first company to provide 4G connectivity services in the UK, and now they claim to offer double 4G speeds. It is easy to check for signal in any given location. The company provides a tool which allows interested users and customers to search for network within their local area, whether it is city or suburb, Kensington or Skegness.
What Does the Future Hold?
The future seems very bright for providers and for customers. Engineers are deployed around the UK and are constantly striving to improve coverage and increase reach. There is also ongoing research to increase speeds, reduce downtime and make the experience even richer and more worthwhile for consumers. Where the 4G network fails or is unavailable, customers are automatically switched to the 3G network which is a reliable backup.
In Conclusion
UK consumers who demand faster and better services are increasingly going to be happy with the choices they have. Most of the major telecommunications companies are working very hard to provide quality services with faster Internet and better coverage.
Before signing up with a mobile operator with the express purpose of tapping into 4G you should use Orange, O2 and Vodafone Signal Checkers in order to find out which networks have strong signals in your area. Comparison sites such as uSwitch can also help you assess which company has the fastest 4G network and what packages are available. An informed customer is always a happy customer.
Before purchasing a smartphone, Phil Turner wanted to see which provider could offer the best Internet speeds and prices. He found tools like the Vodafone signal checker very useful.
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