Ofcom 'Connectivity you can count on': techUK response
Ofcom published its discussion paper 'Connectivity you can count on' on 3 June 2026, setting out proposals to improve the quality and reliability of mobile connectivity across the UK. techUK is preparing a collective response on behalf of its members and welcomes input from across the industry ahead of the submission deadline.
About the discussion paper
The paper marks a significant shift in Ofcom's regulatory focus, moving beyond coverage as the primary measure of network quality towards a framework that assesses real-world performance. Ofcom proposes a benchmark under which at least 90% of crowdsourced measurements should meet minimum thresholds for download speed, upload speed and latency. On current data, the UK ranks in the bottom third of comparable OECD economies for mobile performance.
The paper covers four key challenge areas, each with associated discussion questions inviting views from industry and other stakeholders:
The performance benchmark framework
Connectivity in busy urban areas
Connectivity on trains
Indoor connectivity in shared public spaces
Connectivity in rural areas
techUK's response
techUK is engaging directly with member organisations across the mobile and connectivity landscape to ensure that our collective response reflects the breadth of industry perspectives. Members who have not yet been in contact but wish to contribute views are encouraged to get in touch with the team directly.
As part of our evidence-building, techUK is hosting two short drop-in sessions for members to review and discuss the draft response before it is finalised. These are open to all techUK members with an interest in the paper's themes. No prior preparation is required — the sessions are designed as an informal opportunity to raise questions, flag concerns, or add perspectives not yet reflected in the draft.
The online meetings will take place on:
Tuesday 7 July – 13:00 – 13:30
Wednesday 8 July – 12:30 – 13:00
