EE has confirmed the next phase of its 4G service, including accelerated network expansion and the launch of new 4G plans and devices. The move comes as sales of EE 4G plans outstrip 3G for the first time, with 4G customer numbers reaching 3.6 million. EE is accelerating network roll-out in rural areas and on transport routes, as well doubling the footprint of its double speed network. It is bringing the 4G network to 2,588 villages and small towns with populations under 10,000, including many rural areas, with more than 3 million people in rural areas now having access to the 4G network.
EE is also focusing on areas of high usage, including airports, roads, and train lines and stations. A total of 47 major train stations and 22 of the busiest airports are now 4G-enabled, along with over 50 percent 4G coverage on 50 of the busiest motorways and A-roads. Coverage of major roads in more built up areas, such as the M25 and M62 has reached over 80 percent. EE will double the footprint of its double-speed 4G network to 40 towns and cities by end-2014.
It will also launch a new range of EE-branded 4G broadband devices and plans on 28 May, which will be available on PAYG and consumer and business pay monthly plans. These include the 'Buzzard' 4G car WiFi device (GBP 49.99 on PAYG), which will enable any car with a 12v connection to instantly become a 4G WiFi hotspot for up to 10 connections. It will also launch two new 4G WiFi devices optimised for the double-speed 4G network - the premium Kite devices (GBP 69.99 on PAYG), and the Osprey WiFi unit (GBP 49.99 on PAYG) for a younger audience.
It will also launch the Eagle Android tablet for GBP 199 on PAYG or GBP 49.99 on 24-month pay monthly plans of GBP 15 and higher. The Buzzard, Kite and Osprey will be available on EE's Shared plans, as well as the new 4G WiFi pay monthly plans, and are free on 24-month plans of GBP 15-per-month and over. These new devices will be supported by a new range of 4G WiFi plans, including a range of 24 and one month plans with various data allowances. It will also offer new plans for small businesses.
