While research found the number of UK properties unable to a get a good broadband connection fell by one million over the past year, some 1.4 million UK homes – or 5% of properties – remain unable to get broadband speeds over 10 Mbit/s (the speed required to meet a typical household’s digital needs).

Ofcom, the telecoms regulator, said rural areas still lag behind on broadband, with around one quarter of properties (nearly 920,000) not being able to receive a connection of over 10 Mbit/s. This is because they are often situated a long way from the telephone exchange or local street cabinet.

Meanwhile, mobile coverage across the country is improving, with 4G reaching most premises, but the report found that coverage still falls short and the regulator wants to see better coverage across the UK.

Steve Unger, Ofcom group director, said: “Mobile and broadband coverage continued to grow this year, but too many people and businesses are still struggling for good service. We think that is unacceptable.

“So we are challenging mobile operators to go beyond built-up areas, and provide coverage across the UK’s countryside and transport networks.”

People can check whether their mobile reception and home broadband connections are giving them the best service, using a new version of Ofcom’s app for smartphones and tablets which it launched today. If the app finds a problems with mobile reception or home broadband, it will explain possible causes and provide troubleshooting advice.