VodafoneThree is combining its network spectrum to give millions of customers access to both automatically, getting enhanced coverage with greater capacity.
The first stages of the technology are being activated remotely, enabling faster deployment across Vodafone and Three’s networks.
Using its ‘Multi-Operator Core Network’ technology, the company has already integrated and opened access on more than 600 sites, with another 9,000 to follow by the end of the first year of VodafoneThree being formed.
The bigger networks will also eliminate 4G not spots and expanding 5G coverage across the UK, connecting customers’ devices automatically to the best coverage available – whether that’s on the Vodafone or Three network – giving them access to two networks at no extra cost, allowing improved coverage and speed when using 4G and 5G.
VodafoneThree engineers are working on using a carefully weighted set of criteria to manage capacity and maximise customer benefits without having an impact on the existing service.
Meanwhile, 7m Three customers are already experiencing an average 20% boost in 4G speeds and 40% in some key towns and cities, thanks to the integration of combined spectrum.
All customers of VodafoneThree brands (Vodafone, Three, SMARTY, VOXI, and Talkmobile) will see benefits within 12 months, including peak period improvements; eliminating 4G not spots; and enhanced 5G coverage, with around 71% of the UK population will have access to VodafoneThree’s fastest 5G speeds by the end of year one.
Andrea Donà, Chief Network Officer, VodafoneThree (pictured) said: “Bringing our networks together marks a major milestone for VodafoneThree, unlocking greater capacity, reducing 4G not spots, and expanding 5G coverage.
“Millions of customers are already seeing the benefits of a nationwide boost, powered by our spectrum integration and Multi-Operator Core Network technology.”