Mobile Broadband Coverage Maps Published by Ofcom

The Office of Communications has today published a series of maps showing mobile broadband 'not spots' around the UK. A 'not spot' is an area where no 3G connection is possible leaving consumers either unable to connect or only able to connect via a slower than 3G connection. As those in a 'not spot' may tell you, having a slower than 3G connection can stretch the definition of 'broadband' speeds a little too far.

The maps aim to make the choice for potential mobile broadband customers a little easier by showing clearly which areas are not well covered. Those in more rural areas seem to be the worst affected with Scotland receiving very little coverage by any of the main providers. Those in northern Wales also seem unlikely to get a great signal.

A map has been provided for each of the five main mobile broadband providers with Three Mobile Broadband and Orange appearing to have the most coverage. London is the best area for coverage which comes as no surprise. All five of the maps are available as a pdf from the Ofcom site. Those considering a pay as you go mobile broadband contract would be advised to check these maps before going ahead.

Mobile Phones: the Future of the Internet.

Mobile internet is growing fast with the release of more Android handsets (including the new HTC Hero) and the new iPhone leading the way. The bad old days of WAP connections and web pages incompatible with mobile browsing are on the way out. Mobile phones with full internet browsing capabilities are starting to emerge and mobile browsing looks to be the future.

Reportedly half of the world's population has a mobile phone with developing countries being the fastest growing markets. Mobile phone technology continues to improve and in the future those who cannot afford a fixed line connection will be able to connect via their mobile phone. As internet compatible handsets become more affordable and data charges are reduced the market continues to grow.

Improvements to the 3G infrastructure are needed in order for coverage to become more widespread but in larger cities a good signal is easy to come by. The availability of free wifi connections in public areas and coffee shops means that users can switch between wireless and 3G connections in order to get the most from their mobile device.

It seems that the idea of using a physical phone line to connect to the internet is fast becoming outdated. Good riddance to it.

Mobile Broadband Coverage on the Tube by 2012?

Mobile phone coverage on London's underground Tube network has always been a bit hit-and-miss. Whilst a good signal isn't out of the question coverage varies a lot and cannot be relied on. A mobile broadband signal (typically 3G or HDPA) is even harder to get and keep.

The British Government has pledged to help mobile broadband providers to increase the signal strength by 2012. The 2012 Olympics are aiming to be the most technically advanced Olympics yet and mobile broadband for spectators is part of that aim.

The Digital Britain Report has suggested that the forthcoming Olympics are a great reason for broadband operators and the city of London to work together for greater digital coverage. The technological no-how is currently up-to-date but the network systems need upgrading. The issue as usual is who will accept the costs: the government or the providers. If the providers foot the bill there will need to be profit in it for them.