Superfast 4G networks approved

Wednesday 23 July 2014

Mobile internet speeds are set to skyrocket after the competition regulator finally approved licences to run superfast 4G networks in the Island.

The Channel Islands Competition Regulatory Authority has approved three licences to operate the networks, which will go to JT, Sure and Airtel.

CICRA say that they will be working with Ofcom to ensure that the new networks are in place as soon as possible.

4G networks give Wifi-equivalent speeds to mobile devices using SIM cards – that means live video streaming and video calls should be possible using 4G-compatible mobile devices.

The UK has had 4G networks from 2012 but the creation of new networks has been held up in the Channel Islands.

Cicra chief executive Michael Byrne said: “The three winning operators have demonstrated strong commitments to invest in 4G technology, which is a strong vote of confidence for the Channel Islands and consumers will be the ultimate winners.

“Customers will benefit from greater capacity and speed when transmitting data that is available from 4G and we look forward to seeing new innovative services that utilise spectrum and the smart devices that support those.

“We have also ensured the issue of ‘bill shock’ when people roam off the island with their mobile devices is not an issue for 4G services; this has been a longstanding problem for mobile customers using 3G. It is even more vital this is addressed now given the potential amounts of data 4G is designed to deliver.”