UK regulator outlines consumer protection plan and 3G coverage maps.
Ofcom has unveiled the second phase of its mobile sector assessment, which it says underline its commitment to competition, consumer protection and investment.
The regulator has also published UK maps of 3G mobile network coverage for the first time.
Ofcom says will continue to promote and safeguard competition in the mobile sector as the industry changes and innovative technology develops by:
- Monitoring competition between mobile networks to ensure consumers are protected.
- Maximising consumer benefits from any possible new entrants to the mobile market by ensuring that innovation continues to flourish.
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As part of this Ofcom published a review of mobile termination rates back on May 20th and how they should be set after 2011, when the current charging regime expires.
The consultation on mobile termination rates closes on July 29th and can be found by clicking here.
In terms of consumer protection, Ofcom says it will "continue to ensure that consumers are getting the best choice and value for money whilst protecting them in an increasingly diverse mobile market" by:
- Continuing to take swift and firm action against companies mis-selling to consumers.
- Continuing to engage with disability groups and mobile operators to further investigate ways to tackle barriers to access and enable use of mobile services by people with disabilities.
In terms of 3G coverage, Ofcom says some problems persist, particularly in rural areas. It's focusing on what it calls persistent "not-spot" areas and working where it can to facilitate better mobile coverage by:
- Assisting the Government on its proposals to make more spectrum available for mobile broadband as well as the work to improve 3G coverage on key transport routes.
- Undertake new research to explore for the first time the technical quality of service. - such as mobile broadband speeds - that consumers receive from mobile devices.
- Investigate the causes of some persistent mobile coverage "not-spots" - areas of poor or no reception - and work with public bodies to consider how to resolve these issues. This may include providing guidance on ways to overcome coverage issues.
The 3G mobile coverage maps can be found by clicking here.
