Industry Updates

'SAMENA Daily' - News

O2 extends 4G mobile coverage in rural communities including almost 400 tourist hotspots ahead of 'staycation summer'

Mobile carrier O2 is working to eradicate mobile signal 'not-spots' by extending 4G coverage at 91,000 areas across the UK - including 400 tourist destinations.

O2 says it wanted to ensure people would have adequate coverage as the country prepared for a 'staycation boom' from July 4 - as coronavirus-easing lockdown measures are eased and tourism firms allowed to re-open.

A number of National Trust and English Heritage sites have been included in the 4G signal boost including the ruins of St Augustine's Abbey in Canterbury.

O2 says as well as helping holidaymakers stay connected and up to date with the latest news even when 'off the beaten track', it will also help local businesses.

Rural connectivity and fixing 'not spots' in less populated areas is a big issue and comes as part of government measures to improve national connectivity.

The firm claims to now have 4G coverage in over 18,000 regional towns, villages and hamlets - which also reduces network congestion and improves download speeds.

The announcement comes at a critical time as the nation emerges from the pandemic with a renewed reliance on technology.

Millions of people have been working from home and home schooling, or even just reliant on the internet for entertainment during coronavirus lockdown.

People have also had to rely on phone calls, Facetime and other more distant connections to keep in touch with family, friends and colleagues.

O2 experienced an initial 25 per cent increase in phone calls at the start of the pandemic, with people spending 30 per cent longer on the phone.

O2’s continued 4G rollout has benefitted off-the-beaten-track locations, including dozens of hamlets – from Inveruglas on the shore of Loch Lomond, to Cynheidre in South Wales.



Source: https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech/article-8470551/O2-extends-4G-mobile-coverage-rural-communities-including-400-tourist-hotspots.html

ATTENTION