Ofcom launches new mobile coverage checker
Ofcom has launched a tool for checking mobile coverage so that consumers can go online to see what sort of service they should be getting.
The map has been created using both data provided by mobile phone operators and data Ofcom has gathered during its own testing of mobile phone signals around the country. The webpage has information on voice call quality and 3G and 4G data. Ofcom is hoping that consumer will provide feedback to ensure that the map is completely accurate.
The chief technology officer at Ofcom, Steve Unger, pointed out that strong mobile coverage is now proving essential to many people’s lives. Consumers can use their postcode to search the system or simply zoom in to their location.
The map provides information on the strength of coverage both indoors and outdoors, and there is also information on geographic features ‒ such as hills and valleys ‒ that could affect the signal strength. Ofcom has pointed out that the map might provide different information to providers’ websites, as different methods are used to measure the strength of the signal.
Customers should also be aware that being in a busy area can affect the service, as congestion can limit data rates. The type of handset that has been chosen can also affect the strength of the signal and the available services.
Ofcom wants people to provide feedback if they are getting a different service to that indicated on the map so that its information can be kept up to date.