VodafoneThree has activated its Multi-Operator Core Network (MOCN) platform on more than 600 sites, with 9,000 expected to be live by the end of the first year of the merger.
MOCN enables devices to connect automatically to the least congested or best-performing cell, regardless of the original provider.l It enables rapid nationwide deployment. VodafoneThree expects measurable improvements for all customers within the first year. The rollout is part of VodafoneThree’s £11bn network investment programme.
Customers on Vodafone, Three, Smarty, VOXI and Talkmobile will receive the strongest available 4G or 5G signal from either network at no extra cost. Although the two operators share masts and antennas, billing, security, and service provision remain separate, and SIMs always connect to the customer’s contracted network.
VodafoneThree reports that more than seven million Three and Smarty customers are already experiencing 20 per cent faster 4G speeds, with gains of up to 40 per cent in some areas, thanks to spectrum pooling. Similar improvements are expected for Vodafone users as integration progresses.
The development aims to improve reliability for business-critical applications, boost performance during peak periods, and close 4G coverage gaps. VodafoneThree says the partnership will eliminate 4G “not spots” across an area ten times the size of London and deliver its fastest 5G speeds to 71 per cent of the UK population within 12 months.
Dynamic capacity management will automatically move devices from congested cells to neighbouring sites with spare capacity, easing network load.
Andrea Donà, Chief Network Officer at Vodafone Three, said: “Bringing our networks together marks a major milestone for Vodafone Three, unlocking greater capacity, reducing 4G not spots, and expanding 5G coverage. Just weeks into the rollout, millions of customers are already seeing the benefits of a nationwide boost, powered by our spectrum integration and MOCN technology.”
