Networks

There are five major UK mobile phone networks – 3, Orange, O2, Vodafone, T-Mobile. There are also several other mobile networks, but they are owned by one of the five compan ies listed above and operate using the parent network’s capacity. In the industry these are known as MVNOs or Mobile Virtual Network Operators. For example – Virgin Mobile.

"What's the difference between a mobile phone network and a mobile phone manufacturer?"

Mobile phone manufacturers like Nokia, Sony Ericsson and Samsung are companies that produce the handsets we use – by contrast mobile phone networks provide you with access, via SIM card, to their network of base stations, cells and radio masts.

It might seem like an obvious distinction, but you’d be surprised how many people get confused between manufacturer and network. This has a lot to do with all the branding that networks do on handsets on their network.

3 Mobile

3 was the first UK network to offer 3G coverage, and in doing so initiated the delivery of media-rich content to mobile phones. As a result they have a reputation for providing a great internet/data service.

Orange

The Orange network is a major worldwide brand and an early player in the UK mobile network market. Orange have more base stations in the UK than any other mobile network provider and are proud to provide the most comprehensive 3G coverage, not to mention great service overseas for customers travelling abroad.

O2

Formerly known as BT Cellnet, the O2 network, is extremely popular - with 18 million users it is the leading provider of mobile phone services in the UK.

O2 were the first network to offer the iPhone and did so on an exclusive deal that lasted for two years.

Vodafone

The Vodafone mobile phone network is one of the oldest mobile phone networks and provides 70% 3G coverage of the UK.  

T-Mobile

If you are a smartphone user, you are going to be very excited by T-Mobile’s service: T-Mobile, formerly 1-2-1, has the world’s largest WiFi network with over one thousand WiFi hotspots in the UK alone. 84% 3G coverage in the UK and 17 million customers make it the second most popular UK network.