the evolution of cellular networks in united kingdom

The Evolution of Cellular Networks in United Kingdom

The technological advances in cellular technology have brought us to experience the 5th Generation of Cellular networks in United Kingdom. The UK started with the first generation of networks back in 1985 and has now paved its way to the Sixth generation. Many players came in the last three and half decades, some stayed, some were taken over, some are still standing firm in the ground. At present, there are four major cellular networks in United Kingdom – Vodafone, O2, EE, and Three. 

There are several Mobile Virtual Network Operators operating in UK. These MVNOs ultimately belong to one of the four major network operators. An MVNO buys a network from any major cellular service provider and sells it to the people at a lower price. Some examples of MVNOs are BT (EE), Tesco (Vodafone), iD Mobile (Three), Lyca Mobile (O2), and such. Let’s have a look at how the evolution of cellular networks in United Kingdom happened.

The Cellular Network Evolution in United Kingdom

The Second generation – 2G

Necessity is the mother of invention, and the same goes true for technology. Technology evolves when the current resources become limited. With the incapability and limitations of devices and networks, the first generation of the network had to be replaced with new technology and networks. This gave rise to the 2G GSM network. In 1982, the GSM (Groupe Special Mobile) was formed to improve the technical aspects of a public mobile communication model. Later in 1988, ETSI was created to define the standards and stipulations of the GSM technology. 

The second generation of networks brought certain benefits to its users in different parts of the UK.  The phone conversations made over the network were digitally encrypted, between the handset and the cell tower. The advent of SMS came with 2G so that people could text each other. Radio frequencies were utilised in a better manner, allowing more users per frequency band. When compared to 1G, handsets became energy saving as the digital signals used lesser battery power. 

There are three central 2G systems for your reference. There were may models developed, but these are the most popular ones.

Digital Advanced Mobile Phone Systems (D-AMPS) 

We all have heard of the AMPS network. It is a digital version of AMPS, which used Time Division Multiplexing for several calls.

Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM)

The 2G network came into existence through the GSM network. The technology is used globally. For maintaining several calls simultaneously, it uses Time Divison Multiplexing and Frequency Division Multiplexing. 

Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) 

CDMA is a different technology standardised by International Standards IS-95.

The Third Generation – 3G

The Third Generation of the network comes with a higher data rate, which is measured in Mbps. 

It supports additional features of video conferencing, stable internet connection, clear voice signals, and a faster network. In the UK, 3G is known as UMTS – Universal Mobile Telecommunication System. By April 27th, 2000, an auction raised around £31 billion for getting licenses for the radio spectrum for the UMT 3G system (2.2 GHz).  Hutchison launched 3G services on March 3rd, 2003, but users were having a problem getting 3G handsets. Other operators which got 3G licenses were Vodafone Limited, BT, O2, T-Mobile, and Orange 3G Limited.

Benefits of 3G

  • Enhanced bandwidth, safeguard and reliability
  • Simultaneous operativity between network operators
  • Multiple data plans
  • A new spectrum to avoid traffic on existing cell towers
  • Fixed data rates
  • Smart multimedia options
  • High-speed Internet
  • Supports more devices with increased capacity
  • Additional features like GPS and Mobile television

The Fourth Generation – 4G

The introduction of the fourth generation of the network started with a delayed auction in 2011. The delayed auction meant that 4G would not come till 2014, but O2 LTE trials began in London the same year. On March 13, 2012, Orange and T-Mobile UK launched the network after getting regulatory approval.  On October 3, EE launched its 4G services, in 16 cities by the year-end and turned out to be UK’s first LTE network. O2 and Vodafone launched their 4G network in August 2013. 

4G is an advanced version of the previous networks. It offers users extra features and possibilities. With a latency of 60 milliseconds, it provides users with a high download and upload speed. They can enjoy audios and videos in high-resolutions. Gamers can play video games at better graphics. With LTE, the call quality has also been improved. People can each other clearly without any voice-breaking. A faster internet connection provides users with many benefits including no stutter videos, proper video calls without ‘reconnecting’ issue, no call drops, seamless browsing, faster downloads, quick data transfer, and much more.

Why is 4G better?

  • 4G LTE offers a higher broadband speed compared to 3G. 
  • With lowered latency, it receives a better network response.
  • An all IP network signifies easy integration
  • It provides Cost-effective services
  • A higher 4G spectrum means an enhanced network capacity to support more devices for a single cell tower.
  • It can help businesses grow and expand by establishing their online process quickly and effectively.
  • Several enterprises depend on 4G LTE as a backup option when other wired connections fail to respond.
  • For the healthcare sector, 4G will allow patients to have 24×7 healthcare access by getting information on doctors and physicians.

The Fifth Generation of Network – 5G

5G – the Fifth Generation, is a game-changer in the world of networks. It offers alternative possibilities and allows you to explore them. It focuses on connecting everyone virtually, including machines, objects and humans. 5G is one of the fastest networks which comes with more security and reliability. It provides users with a more uniformed experience. The high-speed network has opened doors for innovations in Artificial Intelligence and Virtual reality.

 In May 2019, EE was the first operator to launch 5G services in the UK, by covering six cities by the month-end. By the end of the year, it covered 50 cities and towns across the UK, including London and Edinburgh.  Vodafone was the second operator to launch its 5G services in July 2019. It offered a network in over 12 cities like Birmingham and Bristol. 

In October, BT and O2 launched the 5G network. O2 targeted six cities including London, Belfast and Cardiff. It plans to cover 20 cities and towns by the end of 2020. On the other hand, BT’s initial launch covered 20 cities, which included Manchester and London. The company gave priority to BT Plus and Business reports. In January 2020, the UK government permitted Huawei devices for availing 5G services. 

Benefits of 5G

  • United and Competent platform to enhance broadband services
  • Uses high bands up to 6GHz, i.e. a better spectrum
  • Faster network with a peak data speed of 20 Gbps and 100 Mbps (average data rate)
  • Supports more traffic, i.e., 100 times more than 4G
  • Increased network efficiency
  • Ten times lowered latency than 4G
  • Transforming industries through reliable and lower latency links
  • Connecting IoTs by decreasing data rates and offer low-cost solutions

The Sixth generation – 6G 

At present, 5G has not been fully active in any country. It will take at least a year to establish 5G in the major cities. When 4G was launched, the UK had an opportunity to be one of the first countries utilising 4G LTE services but missed it. This is why it is taking no chances with the sixth generation of the network. The UK government has invested £15 million in quantum technology studies. Quantum technology is an advanced and unexplored sector after fiber optics. We don’t know the real power of Quantum computing yet, that is why the UK has heavily invested in its research.

Now, this may not seem like a direct investment in 6G technology, but it is a step in that direction. 5G can provide a speed up to 10 Gbps. For higher speed, 6G will have to utilize Quantum Technology. The investment will be looked upon by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC). It will be intended towards creating several skill hubs for Quantum technologies across the UK. 

The sixth generation of cellular networks in United Kingdom is likely to use a higher frequency than the 5G cellular technology. It will come with an increased capacity supporting more devices and lower latency. It aims to support one micro-second latency communications. The network is expected to improve sectors of imaging, location awareness, and presence technology. When it comes to Artificial intelligence, 6G will be able to decide the best locations for computing – data storage and processing.

How is 6G better than 5G?

We expect 6G to have a speed of 1 Terabyte per second. Such speed and latency will allow 5G applications to improve their existing framework. The new network will offer them with innovative and creative options to enhance their applications. There can be significant advances in wireless sensing technology, as 6G will combine sub-mm Wave and frequency (for deciding the relative electromagnetic absorption rates). 

Mobile Edge Computing is a new feature, which is being considered to be added in the 5G spectrum. However, it seems that MEC will be added to the 6G network. This means that when 6G launches, our edge and core computing will be combined as a communication framework. This will offer several benefits once 6G becomes effective, including better use of AI capabilities. 

What to expect?

The 6G spectrum may selectively utilize frequencies to estimate consumption and then modify the frequencies, respectively. This can be possible because atoms and molecules release and consume electromagnetic radiation at specific frequencies, as the radiation and consumption frequencies are the same for any substance. The 6G network will aid the government and offer industry solutions for keeping the public safe. Here are a few ways:

  • Sensing Gasoline and toxicity
  • Identifying air quality and improving it
  • Health Monitoring
  • Threat Discovery
  • Face or Feature identification
  • Making a decision for sectors like implementing laws

Facing Network Issues?

Now, that we know how the networks have advanced in the UK, we have another question to address. What should you do if you face network problems with any network operator for 2G, 3G, 4G, or 5G? We have a solution for you. Getting a Mobile Signal Booster is your best option to solve the network problem permanently. Mobile Boosters UK has a premium range of quality boosters to help you pick the best one.

If you are confused, let me explain how a cell booster works. It is a simple device, where the inside antenna catches the weaker signals in a network in forms of radio waves. The amplifier boosts the weaker signals. The increased signals are released in your network for providing you with five bars and a stable network.

A cell booster will work at your homes, offices, studios, and farms. For large buildings like hospitals and shopping malls, you can combine a few cell boosters for optimum performance. If you face network issues while traveling, you can get a portable booster for your car/boat. This means you get a strong network on the go. There are several options for you, including a 3G mobile booster, 4G cell booster, or 5G booster for EE, O2, iD, and other operators. 

Get your Cell Phone Signal booster now!

Now, that you have an understanding of how different cellular networks in United Kingdom have evolved and their benefits, you can make an informed decision regarding a mobile signal booster. Investing in a cell booster will help you solve all the network issues and provide you with a strong signal anytime, anywhere. You won’t face problems like voice-breaking, call dropping, slow internet, or poor connection. This is one of the best solutions which will work for all networks and providers. Mobile Boosters UK is eager to serve you and help you. We offer free delivery across the UK with a 30-day money-back guarantee. So, what are you waiting for? Get your mobile booster and enjoy high-speed connectivity.

Previous article Best 4G and 5G Cell Signal Boosters for the UK
Next article Mobile Signal Booster Buying Guide – 2021
Mini Cart 0

Your cart is empty.

Find Your Booster Now Back to top