'Improvements needed' if mobile broadband is to reach full potential

Continued improvements to mobilebroadband services are needed if the technology is to reach its full potential in the UK, says an expert website.

According to BroadbandChoices.co.uk, the re-allocation of spectrum used for mobile broadband purposes will need to be improved if potential connection speeds are to be reached, while internet service providers (ISPs) should ensure their coverage grows and that they offer better dongles.

Recent research from the website revealed the average mobile broadband connection speed available to UK users falls below one megabit per second (Mbps) for around 70 per cent of customers, leading to longer download times and less efficient use of VoIP solutions.

Chris Marling, editor at Broadband Genie, said: "[ISPs] may very well have expected speeds to improve dramatically this year, as HSDPA rolled out, but it simply doesn't seem to be happening."

Most mobile broadband package speeds are offered at no higher than 3.6Mbps, considerably lower than fixed-line alternatives.