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What is 4G?
The fourth generation of mobile technology
When all we wanted to do was call or text, we used the 2G network. Then came 3G, which was more about the internet on your phone. Then came 4G.
4G didn’t just mean more speed; it meant more videos, more games, more social media and more video calling – the things you love straight to your phone. O2 were the only mobile network to meet an Ofcom commitment to cover 98% of the UK population (with indoor 4G coverage) by the end of 2017.
But we didn’t stop there, we now cover almost 99% of the UK population both indoors and outdoors and we’re still working to get signal to those hard to reach last little bits.
4G is the bedrock of our network and will work in conjunction with our new 5G network to bring you even closer to the things you love.
Getting started
It’s really easy to get your 4G up and running. You just need a 4G phone or tablet, a sim card, a tariff, the latest software and coverage in your area.
Get connected on 4G today
Switch to O2 4G and get all this
FAQs
4G is up to five times faster than 3G, making it much easier to watch videos, play games, tweet and browse on your phone. Downloading a 10 minute video clip, which takes minutes over 3G, will take seconds on 4G.
Our 4G network will take over the frequency used by analogue terrestrial TV. This signal passes through walls more easily, so we'll be able to give you great indoor coverage.
However, 4G speeds will still vary depending on location and the number of people using the service. Check out the Ofcom website for more info.
Visit our 4G coverage checker to see coverage in your area, or register for updates to find out when it's coming to you.
You'll need a few things before you can get started with 4G:
A 4G phone or device from our range
The latest software
4G coverage
A tariff
For help getting set up for 4G, visit our 4G set-up assistant or check out our online store.
If you're having problems with your signal or mobile internet, take a look at our Live Status Checker to keep tabs on any faults in your area.
How to use the status checker
Go to our Live Status Checker page
Select your service: voice (phone calls), data (mobile internet) or text
Type in your postcode, address or nearby landmark
We'll show you live info about any problems with our 2G, 3G and 4G networks in your area. We update hourly, so issues might not show up immediately.
You can also use the status checker to find out about any maintenance work we're doing in your area, and when it'll be completed – check the table below the live info.
We now have 5G in parts of most major UK towns and cities, as well as lots of smaller towns and villages. To see whether 5G has arrived in your area visit our coverage checker.
While we’re focusing on getting ready for 5G, we continue to invest around £2m every day in our existing 4G network, which will be the supporting backbone for 5G for many years to come. Find out more about our 5G network.