A recent report from Opensignal highlighted a decline in 5G availability across the UK compared to the same period last year. The data shows that UK smartphone users only have access to 5G networks an estimated 10% of the time. This metric is considered more indicative of user experience than mere coverage statistics.
Market Analysis: 5G in the UK: From Connectivity Dreams to High-Speed Realities
While overall network availability for 3G, 4G, and 5G remains high—above 95% for all operators—Vodafone appears to be struggling against its competitors. The telecom giant did not secure any category wins in Opensignal’s experience analysis, however, it ranked second in several categories, including three of the four overall experience metrics.
Leading the pack, EE reported a 13.2% availability rate for 5G, while O2 lagged behind at 8.3%. A year ago, 5G availability ranged between 10% and 10.6% for the major operators, showing a slight increase for EE, which continues to dominate the experience market.
The report emphasized EE’s strong performance, as it outperformed rivals in ten of the fourteen categories assessed, including overall speed and video experience.
Read More: EE Launches UK’s First 5G Standalone Network and Wi-Fi 7 for Homes
Three UK also maintained a solid performance, particularly in 5G upload and download speeds, while O2 secured the top position for geographical coverage experience.
Opensignal’s report noted that Vodafone’s upcoming merger with Three could reshape the competitive landscape, potentially boosting their combined coverage experience to rival that of O2. The Competition and Markets Authority is expected to deliver a decision on this merger in December.
In a bid to enhance user experience, EE and Vodafone completed their 3G shutdowns earlier this year, with Three scheduled to follow suit by year-end, while O2 plans to maintain its 3G network until 2025. This transition is anticipated to alleviate network congestion and improve overall smartphone experiences as the rollout of 5G standalone (5G SA) technology continues.
