Vodafone and Three have launched a premium 5G service designed to improve mobile internet speeds and coverage across the United Kingdom, addressing widespread concerns over the country's underperforming mobile network. The new offering, branded SuperMobile, is expected to deliver speeds up to four times faster than the providers' standard 5G service, with guaranteed minimum speeds of 15 megabits per second—sufficient for streaming high-definition video.
The initiative comes nearly a year after Vodafone and Three merged in a £15 billion deal to form VodafoneThree, aiming to strengthen their market position and network capabilities. The companies cite the UK’s mobile performance as lagging behind other G7 nations in both speed and coverage, a situation Vodafone’s chief network officer, Andrea Dona, called "embarrassing."
SuperMobile operates using network slicing technology, which partitions the mobile network to provide different users with tailored service levels. Customers who opt into the premium plan will receive prioritised access, increasing their likelihood of maintaining reliable signal during peak usage periods in high-traffic areas such as city centres, concerts, and sports venues.
Access to the enhanced service will come at an additional cost: Vodafone contract customers will pay an extra £3 per month, while those on SIM-only or handset plans may face surcharges up to £12 monthly. VodafoneThree’s chief executive, Max Taylor, characterized the price increase as "great value for money," highlighting benefits such as improved speed, reliability, and security.
The launch of SuperMobile follows heightened scrutiny of UK mobile networks by both government officials and consumers, who have expressed frustration over inconsistent coverage and slow data speeds. Independent research by mobile analytics firm Streetwave suggested earlier this year that nearly half of the UK population experiences difficulties accessing internet browsing via mobile networks. However, operators, including VodafoneThree, have disputed these claims, emphasizing ongoing investment and network upgrades.
VodafoneThree stressed that non-priority customers will continue accessing the mobile network without degradation, affirming that the introduction of the premium service will not result in deprioritisation of standard users.
The rollout of SuperMobile reflects mobile operators’ broader efforts to enhance service quality amid increasing demand for high-speed, reliable connectivity across the UK. Further developments in network technology and infrastructure are expected as providers respond to competitive and regulatory pressures.