Member Article

Everything Everywhere to launch 4G this month

Everything Everywhere will launch 4G this month, as wider industry adoption of 4G services is expected to be brought forward to the first half of 2013.

In August Ofcom gave approval to Everything Everywhere to use 4G service, and the move provoked criticism from other providers, who are now in talks with the Government.

Olaf Swantee, CEO of Everything Everywhere, said: “We are delighted to announce that the official launch of our new customer brand, EE, offering the UK’s first superfast mobile 4G and fibre broadband service, will take place on the 30th October 2012.

“This is a significant milestone for the United Kingdom, and for the people and businesses of our country who will now be able to enjoy the huge advantages of superfast 4G technology for the first time. We are very proud to be pioneering, innovating and leading our industry in launching 4G for our nation through our new EE brand.”

Rhian Kelly, CBI Director for Business Environment, added: “The decision to allow mobile operators to launch superfast broadband services soon after the 4G spectrum auction at the start of next year is great news for businesses and households alike.

“Faster and more reliable digital communications underpin growth in our most creative industries, and will hopefully spark further technological innovation and boost entrepreneurship across the economy.

“With four in five UK firms citing the quality of digital networks as a significant consideration in their investment decisions, the accelerated timetable for 4G rollout will be seen by business as a positive step forwards. OFCOM and the mobile operators have managed to reach an agreement that should give the wider business community confidence in our digital future.”

Ed Richards, Ofcom Chief Executive, said: “The actions we have taken with industry and government avoids the risk of significant delay and is tremendous news for consumers who might otherwise have waited a considerable period for the next generation of mobile broadband services.

“Ofcom’s objective has always been to release the spectrum as early as possible and we remain focused on starting the auction by the end of the year.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Tom Keighley .