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SRN (Shared Rural Network) News

December 16, 2024

LBC Podcast: A Reflection On The Year That Was With Hamish And Gareth

To close out the year our Chief Executive, Hamish MacLeod joins our Director of Policy and Communications, Gareth Elliott, for a review of 2024. Read on here.

December 6, 2024

Shared Rural Network Programme Update

Programme update to the Shared Rural Network for the publication of Ofcom's Connected Nations Report 2024.

December 5, 2024

CMA approves merger of Vodafone and Three in the UK

The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has today granted approval for mobile network operators Vodafone and Three UK to merge.

December 2, 2024

Connecting The Countryside: A Year Of Rural Mobile Progress

2024 has seen strides in rural connectivity. Read here about key developments transforming lives in even the most remote parts of the UK.

November 27, 2024

LBC Podcast: Unlocking Career Potential with 5G: A Conversation with Innovation Pioneer Nick Mellors

Our Live Better Connected podcast is back. This time we are diving deep into the world of 5G and its transformative impact on careers with innovation pioneer, Nick Mellors.

November 25, 2024

Mobile UK’s Response to the Industrial Strategy: A Vision for a Digitally Connected Future

Mobile UK submits its response to the Government's 'Invest 2035: The UK's Modern Industrial Strategy' consultation. Read here for more information.

November 19, 2024

COP29: How the UK’s Mobile Operators are Contributing to the Fight Against Climate Change

In this blog we reflect on how the UK’s mobile network operators are contributing a more sustainable environmental future.

November 13, 2024

Unleashing the Power of 5G SA: Industry Predictions for 2025

As we approach the end of the year, we’ve invited industry experts to share their insights and predictions for what 2025 might hold for the mobile industry.

November 11, 2024

Ofcom Announces Next Steps For UK 5G Mobile Auction of 26GHz and 40GHz Spectrum

The next UK spectrum auction has moved a significant step closer, with the publication of the text of the final regulations by Ofcom today.

November 6, 2024

UK Mobile Industry Blocks One Billion Scam Messages

The UK's mobile network operators have successfully blocked over one billion scam messages, safeguarding their customers from potential harm.

October 23, 2024

Mobile UK Hosts Annual Parliamentary Reception With Speech From DSIT Minister Sir Chris Bryant MP

This week we were delighted to hold our annual Parliamentary Reception sponsored by Julie Minns MP and attended by Sir Chris Bryant, Minister of State for the DSIT.

October 14, 2024

100 Days of Government: Progress On Mobile UK's Key Asks

It has been 100 days since the Labour Party took office. Here we look at progress on our key asks from the new Government.

October 10, 2024

Navigating The Digital Divide: Failing To Plan, Planning Will Fail

Join Mobile UK online next week at 3.00pm on Tuesday, 15 October for an insightful panel discussion entitled: “Navigating the Divide: Failing to Plan, Planning Will Fail” as part of Digital Leaders Week 2024.

October 2, 2024

Connected or Not? - Are We More Connected Than We Realise?

When is a doorbell not just a doorbell? When is a fridge more than just a fridge? Our recent report on public perception highlighted a misconnect between how connected we are and what we think. Read on.

September 27, 2024

Vodafone: National Rollout Of 5G Standalone Network Across Road And Rail To Unlock £3 Billion For Uk Economy

From being able to work while commuting to reduced delays and smoother journeys, 5G SA can help change rail and road transport in the UK for the better.

September 20, 2024

SRN Programme Update

This month, Ofcom published its update on the compliance of the UK’s four mobile network operators with their Shared Rural Network coverage obligations. 

September 12, 2024

Ofcom Update on SRN Coverage Obligations

Ofcom has today published an update on the compliance of the UK’s four mobile network operators with their Shared Rural Network coverage obligations.

September 6, 2024

Mobile UK Out And About In September And October

Mobile UK has a packed schedule over September and October, inlcuding Connected Britain and Digital Leaders Week. Click here to see a rundown of events (inc. links to invites).

August 19, 2024

New Study Indicates Current Planning Laws Do Not Cater To Public Attitudes And Needs For Mobile Infrastructure

Mobile UK publishes its newest report ‘How Connected Are You?’ exploring public perceptions of mobile connectivity and attitudes towards mobile infrastructure in the UK.

August 16, 2024

Calum’s Road – A Story Of The Importance Of Connectivity And What Happens Without It

This fascinating story of Calum MacLeod and his road tells of the importance of connectivity to cut-off areas and what it means to local communities to connect them.

August 15, 2024

Live Better Connected Podcast: What Does Mobile Connectivity Mean To A Crofter In The Outer Hebrides

The final podcast of our Better Connected Rural week hears from a local South Uist crofter on what mobile connectivity means to the rural community

August 15, 2024

Live Better Connected Podcast: Why Would You Need A Helicopter To Install A Mobile Mast?

In this episode of the Live Beter Connected podcast we hear the perspective of a helicopter pilot as to the benefits of air installations of mobile infrastructue in very remote areas.

August 14, 2024

Live Better Connected Podcast: Local Council Perspectives Of Mobile Connectivity In Rural Areas

In this latest episode as part of #BetterConnectedRural our Director of Policy and Communications, Gareth Elliott welcomes Paul Steele, Council Leader at Comhairle Nan Eilean Siar.

August 13, 2024

How Is Mobile Infrastructure Installed In Rural Areas? Notes From South Uist

As part of our rural themed week, our Director of Policy Gareth Elliott shares an insightful VLOG exploring the second-largest island of the Outer Hebrides in Scotland, South Uist.

August 12, 2024

#BetterConnectedRural: Mobile UK Initiates Rural Connectivity Week

Over the next week Mobile UK will be exploring the importance and benefits of mobile connectivity to rural Britain. Join us as we publish new stories and information under the #BetterConnectedRural and invite other to share their experiences too.

August 12, 2024

Live Better Connected Podcast: In Conversation With Three CNO Iain Milligan And The Benefits Of Connectivity In Rural Areas

Mobile UK is joined by mobile operator Three UK’s Chief Network Officer Iain Milligan in our latest episode focusing on rural connectivity and agriculture.

August 1, 2024

Mobile UK Endorses Which? Campaign to Make Fraud a National Priority

Mobile UK joins with Which? in a coalition representing some of the UK’s biggest banks and telecoms providers to make a landmark commitment to urge the new government to make fraud a national priority.

July 30, 2024

5G-Connected Technologies In Public Buildings Could Help Councils Slash Their Energy Bills, Saving Taxpayer Cash And Reducing Their Carbon Emissions.

New modelling for Vodafone UK reveals how digital technologies, powered by 5G, could bring huge cost and energy savings when applied to public buildings like hospitals, schools, leisure centres and police stations.

July 29, 2024

Connected Britain 2024: Exploring The State Of Play For The UK Mobile Industry

Connected Britain is fast appraoching on 11 September and once again Mobile UK is thrilled to announce its own participation in this annual event showcasing connectivity.

July 17, 2024

The King’s Speech: Labour’s Vision For UK Planning Reform Must Include Mobile Infrastructure

Ahead of the King's Speech Mobile UK outline the importance of ensuring mobile infrastructure is embedded in the government's expected planning reform.

July 3, 2024

Live Better Connected Podcast: Election Special with Public Affairs Professional John Arnold

Ahead of the General Election Gareth Eliott welcomes John Arnold, a veteran public affairs professional to give his take on the election and what it means for the infrastructure sector.

July 1, 2024

Vodafone meets Partial Not Spot Target As Part of Shared Rural Network Programme

Vodafone has confirmed that is has hit its Partial Not Spot (PNS) coverage target of the Shared Rural Network programme, reinforcing the company’s commitment to rural communities throughout the UK as The Nation’s Network.

June 30, 2024

Virgin Media O2 Completes First Stage Of Shared Rural Network With UK’s Highest Mobile Mast At Glencoe

Virgin Media O2 has completed the first phase of its Shared Rural Network (SRN) rollout, bringing reliable 4G coverage to 227 rural communities across the UK.

June 28, 2024

Live Better Connected Podcast: Election Special with Nick Wiggin, Head of Partnerships

The Live Better Connected Podcast General Election mini series continues, welcoming new guests to give us a bit of insight into what’s going on and tracking next week’s election.

June 26, 2024

New Report Shows “Life-Changing” Impact of Mobile Connectivity on UK’s Rural Communities

A new independent report, commissioned using data from four EE mast deployments, shows 4G mobile connectivity can generate more than £6 million for a rural community.

June 21, 2024

Live Better Connected Podcast: Election Special with Tom Kelly, Strategic Infrastructure Advisor

Ahead of the general elections we have launched a brand new limited mini-series, where we welcome guests who have stepped both in and around the infrastructure and political worlds. In this episode we speak with Tom Kelly, former government spokesperson for the Prime Minister.

June 17, 2024

Mobile UK and Mobile Infrastructure Forum Publish Six-Point Planning Framework Ahead of the General Election

New report builds on the once in a generation opportunity highlighted by leading politicians, and presents a detailed six-point framework to overcome the underfunded and under resourced planning system to enable mobile network rollout.

June 12, 2024

Blog: Digital Connectivity Needs to be at the Heart of the Election

Hamish MacLeod, Mobile UK's Chief Executive, outlines how digital connectivity must be at the heart of this General Election and what is needed to spur investment in the sector.

June 12, 2024

Mobile UK Launches Industry Manifesto Calling on the Next Government to Prioritise Reform to Unlock Sector Investment

Mobile UK is calling on the next government to initiative our Five-Point Plan to unlock investment and ensure the UK continues to benefit from world-class connectivity.

May 19, 2024

SRN Update: 200 Rural Locations Across the UK Now Receiving Vodafone 4G Through Shared Rural Network (SRN) Programme

Vodafone customers visiting, living or working in 200 rural locations across the UK are now receiving strong and fast Vodafone 4G through the Shared Rural Network (SRN) programme.

May 15, 2024

Mobile Infrastructure Forum Member Cornerstone Unveils Policy Reform Blueprint to Propel UK's Digital Infrastructure Transformation

Cornerstone has unveiled a 6-point strategic framework

May 15, 2024

SRN Update: Virgin Media O2 Reaches Major Milestone with 150 Shared Rural Network Sites Deployed

Virgin Media O2 hits another milestone as the remote Isle of Eigg becomes the 150th site delivered by VMO2 as part of the Shared Rural Network.

May 15, 2024

World Telecommunication Day 2024: Meeting the UK’s Connectivity Goals

World Telecommunication Day! This annual awareness day celebrates the power of digital innovation in advancing sustainable development and prosperity for all.

May 7, 2024

SRN Update: Government Funded Upgrade Delivers New 4G Coverage in Monmouthshire

Rural towns and villages in Monmouthshire, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire are benefiting are benefiting from faster, more reliable mobile coverage as government-funded 4G network upgrades were switched on.

May 1, 2024

Guest Blog: Making Britain a Global Leader in Telecoms Regulation

Professor Eric Yeatman, Professor Chris Tucci and Dr Marika Livari discuss how the right regulation can spur investment and reap rewards for the UK. Read here.

April 29, 2024

Connected North: Wireless Technology in the North

Last week Mobile UK attended the Connected North annual event in Manchester which brings together industry leaders to discuss better connectivity in the North of the UK.

April 17, 2024

LBC Podcast: Author of Major Industry Report Talks About Urgent Need To Rebalance the Investment Environment To Spur Mobile Deployment

Gavin Winbanks, author of a new report looking at unlocking investment in the mobile industry, calls on the Government to follow through on its Wireless Infrastructure Strategy

April 11, 2024

Wireless Infrastructure Strategy Targets At Risk According To New Mobile Telecoms Industry Report

Government ambitions for widespread adoption of 5G are at risk of being missed if actions outlined in the Wireless Infrastructure Strategy are not followed through.

April 9, 2024

SRN Update: Lake District Gains 4G Coverage As Part Of The Shared Rural Netwok

Rural towns and villages benefit from government funded element of the Shared Rural Network in the Lake District to deliver 4G mobile coverage in hard-to-reach areas.

April 8, 2024

New Report Finds That UK Mobile Customers Have Fifth Most Affordable Mobile Data In The World

New report published by Broadband Genie finds the the United Kingdom has the fifth most affordable mobile data in the world putting the UK on par with Honk Kong and Denmake and ahead of Germany, Itlay, the US, Japan and France.

March 28, 2024

SRN Update: Proposed SRN TNS Site Locations

Click here to learn more about the proposed TNS, Total Not Sport publicly funded, locations of the Shared Rural network.

March 19, 2024

What Is The 2G/3G Switch Off? How Will It Impact Me?

Did you know that 2G and 3G networks are being phased out to make way for faster, more secure, more reliable and more energy-efficient 4G and 5G networks? To learn more click here to view our latest information video.

March 11, 2024

Don't Drop the Call: Why Supporting the UK's Mobile Industry is Essential

As we look forward to a future General Election Mobile UK outlines why the mobile industry matters and why it is essential that there is a positive investment environment to spur on the deplyment of world class mobile connectivity.

March 4, 2024

Budget 2024: Improving Mobile Connectivity - The Importance of a Positive Investment Environment

Mobile UK's CEO, Hamish MacLeod, outlines the actions needed from the Chancellor to enable a positive investment environment to assist the rollout of world-class mobile networks.

February 29, 2024

Live Better Connected: Beyond Gigabytes - Shining a Light on the True Value of Telecoms with Telecoms Expert Matt Howett from Assembly Research

Have you ever wondered about the true value of mobile connectivity in our lives? In this episode we chat with Matt Howett, CEO of Assembly Research, to discuss his most recent report uncovering the real value of mobile connectivity.

February 27, 2024

Vodafone Successfully Switches Off 3G Across The UK

Vodafone switches off its 3G network to repurpose the radio frequencies to strengthen the networks 4G and 5G services.

February 26, 2024

Beyond The Buzz: How Connectivity Thrives In Untamed Places 

Forget bustling cities and crowded towns. Imagine vast landscapes, untouched by human hands, where nature reigns supreme. Why do we still need connectivity in unpopulated areas.

February 26, 2024

EE Closes The Curtain On Its 3G Network

BT/EE announces that it has shut off its 3G network bringing an end to its use of the technology after 20 years.

February 23, 2024

SRN Update: DSIT Response To NAO Report

DSIT provides a response to the NAOs report examining the progress of the Shared Rural Network.

February 20, 2024

SRN Update: EE Delivers Coverage Boost To North Yorkshire

EE announces that it has upgraded or built more than 40 masts in North Yorkshire in the last two years as part of the Shared Rural Network, providing a boost to coverage in the county.

February 19, 2024

Live Better Connected Podcast: Why Is 5G Technology A Gamechanger For UK Ports?

In the next iteration of the Live Better Connected podast series, Gareth speaks with Ericsson and BT about how they helped the Port Of Tyne to fulfill its ambition to become a smart 5G port.

February 14, 2024

SRN Update: Vodafone Provides An Insight Into The Challenges Of Rolling Out Improved 4G Signal As Part Of The Shared Rural Network

Placing a new mobile mast is never a simple task. It can take months – even years – of planning and work. Read Vodafone's insight into the rollout of the SRN.

February 13, 2024

SRN Update: Virgin Media O2 Delivers Its 100th Shared Rural Network Site

Virgin Media O2 has hit a major milestone after it rolled out reliable 4G coverage across 100 rural sites as part of its commitment to the £1bn Shared Rural Network programme

February 12, 2024

STOP! THINK FRAUD: UK Government launches a brand-new campaign against fraud

Fraud is the most common crime in the UK, accounting for almost 40% of all crime in England and Wales. In just one year, 1 in 17 adults in England and Wales were victims of fraud (that’s almost 3 million people).

February 6, 2024

Safer Internet Day: How to Keep Our Kids Safe in the Digital World?

Today marks Safer Internet Day, an annual celebration aimed at raising awareness of the importance of having a safer and better internet for everyone, especially children and young people.

February 2, 2024

New Report Reveals Local Authority Connectivity Priorities For 2024 And Reveals Continuing Lack 5G Prioritisation

A new report, published by FarrPoint, looks into the digital connectivities of councils across the UK. The report finds awaress of switch off strategies is high but finds a lack of prioritisation for 5G. Read more here.

January 29, 2024

The 3G Switch Off: What Does It Mean ?

UK mobile network operators are switching off their 3G UK networks as part of a broader strategy to enhance and future-proof mobile services across the UK. Read here for more information.

January 22, 2024

Live Better Connected Podcast: How Can We Narrow The Digital Divide?

In the next episode to the Live Better Connected podcast we are thrilled to speak with Helen Milner OBE, the Chief Executive of Good Things Foundation, where we discuss digital exclusion and collaboration with mobile companies to mitigate its impact.

January 17, 2024

Big Energy Saving Week 2024: How 5G Will Supercharge Utilities And Energy

During Big Energy Saving Week we showcase the power of 5G to power the energy grids of the future and to reduce usage and emissions.

January 16, 2024

SRN Update: EE Completes First Stage Of Shared Rural Network

EE completes first stage of its committments of the Shared Rural Network expanding its coverage by a further 10,000km, equivalent to 26 times greater than the Isle of Wight.

January 8, 2024

SRN Programme Update

Progress on the Shared Rural Network continues across all elements of the programme.

December 22, 2023

Merry Christmas And A Happy New Year

ishing you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from all of us at Mobile UK.

December 20, 2023

Live Better Connected Podcast: Looking back on 2023 & Bloopers

As 2023 draws to a close we decided to take a look back at our Live Better Podcast and the fascinating and interested guests we met. And as its Christmas we have also included some bloopers for your enjoyment.

December 18, 2023

We Wish You A Connected Christmas

Merru Christmas. In the run up to the holidays have you thought about how connected you are and will be. Check out our guide here.

December 14, 2023

Planning – The Single Point of Failure?

The Government is prioritising growth yet our Director of Policy, Gareth Elliott, asks whether the planning system is the single point of failure that stands in the way of major infrastructure investment.

December 12, 2023

New Report: The Value of Telecoms Services In The UK (2023)

A new report from Assembly Research considers the relative value for money consumers ireceive from fixed and mobile services.

December 6, 2023

LBC Podcast Update: What Does Mobile Connectivity Mean For Local Authorities?

The Live Better Connected podcast series welcomes the Local Government Association’s (LGA) Digital Champion, Cllr Mark Hawthorne to discuss how mobile is essential to local authorities across the country.

December 4, 2023

2024 Forecast: Predictions And Outlook For The Mobile Industry For A New Year

As 2023 draws to a close we have asked several leading industry figures to offer their predictions and outlook for 2024. Read more here.

November 20, 2023

Immersive Learning in Primary Schools: Unlocking New Experiences with 5G Mobile Technology

The latest Live Better Connected podcast episode explores mobile connectivity in education welcoming Cadoxton Primary School Teacher, Hannah Cogbill-Davies.

November 16, 2023

UK Government To Provide £36 Million 5G Connectivity Boost for Public Services, Transport and Creative Industries

Ten regions spanning from Glasgow to the West Midlands in the UK are set to benefit from a £36 million fund aimed at expediting innovation driven by 5G technology.

November 15, 2023

Virgin Media O2 Launches ‘Crafty Lager 7726’ To Banish Scam-barressment And Get People Talking About Fraud

To coincide with International Fraud Awareness Week (12 – 18 November), Virgin Media O2 has teamed up with actor and documentary maker, Ross Kemp, to launch Crafty Lager 7726 – a new limited-edition fraud-fighting beer created to get the nation talking about scams.

November 8, 2023

Ofcom Sets Out Design for mmWave Spectrum Auction

Ofcom is has officially set out the design of the auction for awarding licences for millimetre wave (mmWave) spectrum.

November 6, 2023

Could You Go 24 Hours Without Mobile Connectivity?

To showcase how we use mobile connectivity we challenged Iain Morris, news editor at industry publication Light Reading, to see if he could get through 24 hours without mobile connectivity.

November 3, 2023

GUEST BLOG: Bad Wi-Fi And Smombie Envy: Iain Morris of LightReading Tries A Day Without A Mobile

Mobile UK challenged Iain Morris, of LightReading, to spend 24 hours without a SIM in his phone. Read here how he got along.

October 31, 2023

Mobile UK Welcomes Updated Guidance From the NCSC Ensuring Best Practice To Build Effectiveness And Trust When Using SMS and Telephone Messaging

The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) has updated its guidance designed to ensure that organisation's SMS and telephone messages are effective and trustworthy.

October 27, 2023

Mobile UK responds to Ofcom’s updated Net Neutrality guidance

26 October 2023: Mobile UK, the trade association for the UK’s four mobile network operators welcomes the updated Ofcom guidance on net neutrality, published today, but urges further action to assure equal access for all.

October 25, 2023

EE Brings 4G Mobile Coverage Boost To Rural Communities Across Northern Ireland

Residents and businesses across Northern Ireland are set to benefit from improved 4G mobile coverage following a series of network upgrades from EE.

October 23, 2023

Gareth Elliott Joins The Infrastructure Podcast To Discuss How We Live Better Connected.

Our Director of Policy and Communications, Gareth Elliott, features in The Infrastructure Podcast with Antony Oliver, where he discusses how and why we live better when we are connected.

October 20, 2023

GUEST BLOG: Dedicated Telecoms Unit Works With Industry To Attract And Accelerate Digital Infrastructure Investment In Glasgow

Guest blog by Anne McLister, Head of Digital Economy, Glasgow City Council #LocalDigitalIndex (Replicated with permission from Tech UK)

October 19, 2023

Mobile Infrastructure Forum Launched to Support Delivery of World-Class Mobile Infrastructure Throughout the UK

The Mobile Infrastructure Forum (‘MIF’) launches today, bringing together the interests of four key shared mobile infrastructure organisations in the UK (Cellnex UK, Cornerstone, MBNL and Wireless Infrastructure Group).

October 18, 2023

National Infrastructure Assessment 2 Mirrors Mobile UK’s Call for Digital Champions To Assist 5G Deployment

The National Infrastructure Commission launched its second National Infrastructure Assessment mirroring calls by Mobile UK for the Government to establish and provide funding for digital champions across the country.

October 17, 2023

Mobile Industry Join Meeting With The London Mayor And Metropolitan Police Commission To Discuss Mobile Phone Theft

The mobile industry, the Mayor of London and Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police Servic meets to discuss mobile phone theft across the capital.

October 16, 2023

Good Things Foundation Launches Get Online Week

This week (16th Oct – 22nd October), UK Charity the Good Things Foundation launchedsits annual digital inclusion campaign, Get Online Week.

October 11, 2023

How Mobile Technology Has Helped Big Issue Vendors Bounce Back Since The Covid-19 Pandemic.

In the fifth episode of the Live Better Connected podcast, Mobile UK welcomes the well-known social enterprise, the Big Issue Group.

September 25, 2023

EE Annnounces Its 3G Switch Off Timeline

EE has confirmed that its nationwide 3G switch off will begin in January 2024 and aims to complete it by March.

September 21, 2023

Connected Britain 2023 - Mobile UK Provides Insight and Analysis Into The Mobile World

Mobile UK has been ever present at this year's Connected Britain event held at London's eXcel conference centre.

September 20, 2023

National Fitness Day: How Wearable Technology Is Helping Us Manage Our Fitness and Wellbeing

20th September 2023 marks National Fitness Day, a UK awareness day to encourage people of all ages, and abilities to experience the power of fitness through different physical activities. This year’s theme is ‘Your Health is for Life’.

September 14, 2023

Mobile Network Operators Agree OpenRAN MoU With UK Government

Mobile networks operators agree Memorandum of UNderstanding with the UK Government to increase traffic through open and interoperable Radio Access Network (RAN) technologies by 2030.

September 13, 2023

Mobile UK To Discuss The UK’s Digital Divide With Policy Leaders At Connected Britain 2023

Mobile UK's Chief Executive, Hamish MacLeod, and Director of Policy and Communications, Gareth Elliott, will be taking part in this year's Connected Britain - get your tickets.

September 11, 2023

Virgin Media O2 To Begin Switching Off 3G In 2025 With Enhanced Customer Experience As Network Evolves

Virgin Media O2 has confirmed that it will begin switching off 3G services in 2025 to allow the company to focus on upgrading faster, more reliable and energy-efficient 4G and 5G networks to improve services for customers.