As competing networks both clash and cooperate to deploy their own LTE services, EE (Everything Everywhere) reports it has already reached 500,000 4G subscribers and is moving to strengthen its lead by expanding infrastructure and coverage.
In a press release, EE outlined details of its upcoming expansion plans and service updates.
The next stage of the LTE rollout will target major commuter corridors as well as high-traffic locations such as airports and shopping centres, with the goal of covering 55% of the UK population.
New cities scheduled to receive 4G access soon include Aberdeen, Bath, Bournemouth, Brighton, Cambridge, Ipswich, Middlesbrough, Northampton, Norwich, Poole, Plymouth, Portsmouth, Swansea and York.
In many existing 4G cities customers can expect speeds to be doubled, with theoretical peak speeds rising to around 80 Mbps and typical speeds averaging between 24 and 30 Mbps.
Cities set to receive these “double speed” upgrades include Birmingham, Bristol, Cardiff, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Leeds, Liverpool, London, Manchester and Sheffield.
According to a RootMetrics test cited in EE’s statement, average 4G download speeds in London are currently 19.4 Mbps. EE describes this as evidence of being “London’s fastest mobile network,” a claim that reflects current market conditions where EE has limited 4G competition.
The release also highlights two new services to be offered to customers:
- Shared 4GEE plans – These allow multiple phones, tablets and other devices to share a single 4G plan and data bundle. The feature can be useful for families and particularly for businesses that need to manage multiple devices under one plan.
- Pay-As-You-Go Mobile Broadband – Already a popular option on 3G in rural areas where fixed-line fibre is unavailable, pay-as-you-go mobile broadband will soon be offered on 4G to provide higher speeds and improved reliability for customers who depend on mobile connectivity.
At the press briefing, EE’s director of RAN development, Mansoor Hanif, made pointed remarks about competitor arrangements. Referring to O2 and Vodafone’s shared network, he was quoted saying, “I’ve been reading from press reports and our suppliers that they are not seeing eye-to-eye.”
He added: “They have split network responsibility in the UK, so O2 covers one half and Vodafone the other; that makes it very difficult for them to coordinate a nationwide service. We have not split up network responsibility on a geographical basis.”
A Vodafone spokesperson denied Hanif’s characterization, stating that the agreement with O2 is progressing “very well.”
Given EE itself emerged from the merger of Orange and T-Mobile, the industry may see similar network partnerships elsewhere as carriers look to share costs and accelerate national coverage.
EE’s current position raises questions about whether the operator’s approach represents genuine leadership in service and innovation or a temporary advantage due to limited 4G competition. With expanded coverage plans, higher speeds in key cities, and new shared and pay-as-you-go offerings, EE aims to convert early momentum into a lasting market presence while rivals continue to develop their strategies.
What do you think of EE’s 4G strategy and the new services announced? Are they setting the standard for the industry, or benefiting from an early exclusive position?