The regulator described Map Your Mobile as “the most comprehensive tool for comparing mobile coverage and performance to be made available in the UK.”
The service allows users to enter their postcode and obtain a local map of which networks are available, together with data showing which operator’s network gives the best performance for their local area.
The tool means that homemovers can check in advance which network best serves the area in and around their new property. It also allows people to explore which networks offer the best coverage at their workplace or on their commuting route, while local communities can assess the quality of service across their area.
The checker includes crowdsourced data from Opensignal based on people’s real experiences, as well as predictive data from the UK’s mobile operators.
Natalie Black, Ofcom’s group director for networks and communications, said: “Map Your Mobile shows detailed coverage and performance based on what smartphones need today. Put in your postcode and find out which mobile network is right for you.”
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Rocio Concha, Which?’s director of policy and advocacy, said: “In the crowded market of UK mobile networks, consumers need access to accurate mobile coverage and performance information to choose a plan that meets their needs and represents good value for money.
“Ofcom’s new tool will help consumers make informed decisions with crowd-sourced data and predictive data from mobile network operators, which should increase the reliability of coverage information available to consumers.
“It’s important that the tool continues to incorporate user feedback to stay relevant, accurate, and responsive to the changing needs of consumers.”
Figures from Ofcom published last month show that 14% of phone customers had cause to complain about their phone provider in the past year, up from 12% in the previous 12 months.
