Everything Everywhere got the go-ahead from Telecoms regulator Ofcom to use its existing bandwidth to launch fourth-generation (4G) mobile services.
Even though Vodafone and O2 expressed surprise and disappointment at the decision, Ofcom plans to auction 4G bandwidth to other providers next year which allows much faster downloading and data sharing. Everything Everywhere will be allowed to offer 4G services from 11 September.
The company has been trialling 4G services at a number of local businesses in Cumbria in the North of England since the end of June. According to Ofcom, delaying the mobile operator from launching 4G would be “to the detriment of consumers”.
Everything Everywhere itself said the regulator’s decision was “great news for the UK” and that 4G will drive investment, employment and innovation.
Ofcom has issued Everything Everywhere with licenses to use what are called Long-Term Evolution (LTE) services. This is one of a number of broadband technologies that allow the transfer of high-bandwidth data such as video streaming and mapping services.
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