Virgin Media readying new 4G mobile trial: new network coming?
Hot on the heels of this morning’s 4G announcement from Everything Everywhere, Virign Media have revealed that they too will once again be trialling LTE connectivity in Britain’s urban areas.
According to RegHardware, Virgin Media will be “dropping fibre-connected LTE Small Cells into urban areas, to see how easily decent coverage could be established.” Rather than upsetting locals by introducing new large masts, Virgin Media are designing cells “ideal for dropping into lamp posts or bolting onto walls”.
So are Virgin Media planning on launching a new network to take on Vodafone, O2 and Three? Keep in mind they’ve already got a mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) deal going with Everything Everywhere, who themselves are making strides in the 4G race.
Virgin Media are also thought to be exploring the possibility of roaming deals with T-Mobile and Orange customers through the MVNO partnership, but refused to confirm whether it would be taking part later this year in Ofcom’s 2.6GHz band auctions.
