(Image Credit: iStockPhoto/Milan Stojanovic)
Hutchison-owned mobile operator Three has confirmed plans to roll out low-frequency 800MHz spectrum and Voice over LTE (VoLTE) technology beginning in September 2015. The move is expected to improve rural coverage and deliver higher-quality voice calls for Three customers and the MVNOs that use its network.
Three’s existing LTE network operates primarily on the 1800MHz band, which provides greater capacity but has shorter range and weaker indoor penetration. By adding the 800MHz band, the operator will be able to reach more customers—especially in rural areas and inside buildings—at lower cost and with fewer signal obstacles than higher-frequency bands.
VoLTE will boost call clarity for users with supported handsets and will be integrated directly into the native phone dialer for a seamless experience. Unlike traditional voice on 2G/3G, VoLTE lets data-intensive tasks continue in the background while a call is active, so downloads and apps remain functional during conversations. Devices confirmed for initial support include the iPhone 6 and 6 Plus, Samsung Galaxy S6 and S6 Edge, and the Galaxy Note 4.
The 800MHz band will help reach more customers and at a lower cost
Speaking at an exclusive event in London, Three’s CTO Brin Jones said: “Three’s aim is to keep our customers connected wherever they are. Adding low-frequency spectrum to our network and enabling voice calls over 4G and Wi‑Fi will mean Three customers can stay connected in more places than ever before.”
He added: “With roaming at no extra cost available in 18 destinations, Three is doing more than any other network to give our customers a reliable, quality experience wherever they are.”
The operator also shared usage statistics that illustrate how demand has grown over recent years. Average data usage per customer on Three’s network rose from about 18MB per month in 2007 to roughly 3.4GB per month in 2015. Average 3G speeds increased as well, from 0.8Mbps in 2007 to 6.4Mbps in 2015.
Last month, Three’s parent company announced an offer to acquire Telefonica’s O2 for £9.25 billion, a deal intended to create the UK’s largest mobile network. Industry observers see Three’s network improvements and investment as part of broader strategic positioning amid speculation about further consolidation in the UK market, including potential moves by other major players.
Are you looking forward to Three’s roll-out of VoLTE and 800MHz? Let us know in the comments.