In the UK it’s a ‘game changer’ if it actually works
Two UK mobile operators have launched broadband services for business running over 5G, in a bid to plug the huge gap in the marker before ‘alt nets’ can run fibre to the premises.
Three UK has offered a ‘game changing’ 5G alternative to fixed line broadband at £14.17 per month to VAT registered businesses. The 5G Plug and Play service is aimed at those who want a quick and easy set up with no compromise on reliability, said Three UK, and it promises average download speeds faster than 100Mbps. The services comes with a router that can be plugged in anywhere 5G Broadband is available and offers ‘absolute flexibility’.
Though a strong reliable internet connection is vital for business, the connections offered by fixed line telcos are neither convenient nor great value for money, according to Snehal Bhudia, Director of Business Propositions & Go To Market for Three UK. “At Three Business, we know things should be different. That’s why we’ve introduced a broadband connection that runs on 5G, meaning no waiting for roads to be dug up or engineers running wires through the walls,” said Bhudia.
Three UK has simplified the installation by offering a plug and play router. But British telcos have a dreadful record on delivering speeds they promise. “We’re in the unique position of being the only mobile network with the UK’s largest spectrum holding, which means our 5G broadband is faster than what our competitors can offer,” said Bhudia. Meanwhile, rival mobile operator EE has tried to simplify the sign up and installation of customers by launching a range of Connected Laptops for small businesses. Each contract includes a built in 4G/5G SIM and mobile data plan. Other add-ons include a choice of Office 365 and EE’s Roam Abroad pass, free access to BT’s Digital Marketing Hub and a free Square digital payment reader.
“We’re going the extra mile for sole traders and micro-businesses,” said Caroline Southall, EE’s Director of SoHo (Small office/Home office). Customers can also benefit from a Stay Connected Guarantee, Next Day Device Replacement and an Annual Device MOT.
The fact that telcos are launching national campaigns to deliver high speed connectivity with mobile networks shows what a nonsense the myth of ‘Broadband Britain’ is, said Travis Mooney-Evans, founder of comms aggregator service Xtendnet. “Everyone knows someone with connectivity problems and there are many more places than we’d like to admit with chronic broadband shortages,” said Mooney-Evans, who is campaigning to patch up the massive holes in coverage. The targets publicised by the government are nonsensical and regulator Ofcom gives the illusion of progress by changing the way it defines the thresholds. “As it stands, copper will be disconnected in 2025,” said Mooney-Evan, “Can you imagine the chaos if that actually happened?”