O2 UK Confirm 4G Mobile Broadband Launch for 29th August 2013

Mobile operator O2 (O24G) look set to be the first to take on EE’s rival network after announcing a 29th August 2013 launch date and the first roll-out locations for their new 4G (LTE at 800MHz) based Mobile Broadband network, which eventually aims to reach 98% of the UK population (indoor and outdoor).

The first to benefit on launch day will be approximately 5 million people in London, Leeds and Bradford. But by the end of 2013 O2’s new network will have expanded to cover a total of 13 cities (mobile operators always upgrade dense urban areas first). Apparently specific switch-on dates for the other cities (listed below) will be announced “over the coming weeks“.

Ronan Dunne, CEO of Telefónica UK (O2), said:

“It’s great that I am able to announce O2 4G the day after the spectrum has been cleared for use. Digital connectivity will be made ubiquitous by 4G and become the oxygen of modern life. It is our intention to use 4G to inspire the nation through the possibilities of technology, encouraging people to live more, do more and be more with O2.

The full potential of 4G is as yet unexplored, but what we can be sure of is that it will allow for a whole new world of opportunity that people are now ready for. Over half of our customers say they use more data than two years ago and even more use wifi wherever they go, to always stay connected. Given this trend, there is no doubt that 4G will transform our lives, be it as consumers, in business or through public sector services.”

O2s UK 4G Rollout for 2013
London
Leeds
Bradford
Birmingham
Newcastle
Glasgow
Liverpool
Nottingham
Leicester
Coventry
Sheffield
Manchester
Edinburgh

O2 also intends to compliment the network by launching a range of new tariffs to accompany the service, which will apparently “go beyond what has already been offered in the 4G market” and be priced from £26 a month (SIM only and Pay Monthly tariffs will be available from launch. Pay&Go tariffs will launch in the coming months).

Sadly the operator has yet to outline the specific details but we do known that those who buy a 4G consumer tariff direct from O2 will benefit from 12 months free music content. Meanwhile EE’s cheapest package is £21 but without more information we can’t make a direct comparison.