Mobile business broadband users to benefit from ambitious Ofcom target

Companies that connect to business broadband connections through mobiles from around the UK are likely to benefit from new, ambitious targets to extend the range of 4G internet across the country.

Ofcom has revealed that it is increasing the number of Britons it intends to bring the state-of-the-art mobile broadband technology to from 95 per cent 98 per cent.

The original aim was outlined in a consultation in March 2011, but the regulator now believes the country can do even better.

In particular, those who use the latest handsets and associated equipment – such as voice over internet protocol solutions – could stand to benefit the most.

This is because Ofcom has suggested a £150 million fund to boost communications in Britain will be largely spent on upgrades to mobile infrastructure.

Firms in rural communities and outposts will also be delighted by the body's latest target, as it is believed that much of the cash will be diverted towards locations where it is not commercially-viable for operators to invest.

Ofcom has announced that special licences to provide telecommunications in various parts of the UK will be put up for auction later this year and it is the winners of these that will have the responsibility of meeting the obligations.

As well as ensuring that coverage reaches 98 per cent of the population, firms can consider a second option.

This is to run 800 MHz solutions that provide 4G business broadband that is both fast and available in areas currently affected by a lack of service.

The Country Land and Business Association recently welcomed the admission by secretary of state Caroline Spelman that rural areas are sometimes ignored and neglected by the government.

One of the areas in which Ms Spelman confessed Westminster does not do enough for homes and businesses located in the British countryside was broadband provision.