KPN announced it will be putting extra efforts into improving mobile coverage in sparsely populated areas. The operator expects to iron out hundreds of bottlenecks over the next three years by using new technologies. So far, the focus has gone to improving coverage in areas of at least 1,500 inhabitants but it will now go to locations with a lower population density.
KPN told Telecompaper that it will especially look to improve the range of low frequencies, and that it will likely add more masts. The operator wants to improve the range of all technologies, for calling and the use of mobile data. KPN said it will aim for an average speed of 20 Mbps for all users.
KPN’s network currently covers 99 percent of the Netherlands in terms of area and population. The operator wants to put special attention on improving its reach in the eastern half of the Netherlands, namely in Overijssel, Gelderland, Drenthe and Limburg. Focus will also go to areas with less mobile coverage in North Holland and North Brabant, such as in the Bommelerwaard. These moves should increase coverage to 99.5 percent, KPN said.
KPN said it decided to work on its coverage in response to customer comments and in consultation with local officials. As an important national player on the market, KPN believes it has a special responsibility to improve mobile accessibility. The operatpr noted that vulnerabilities can also arise in the network due to changing conditions.
