Mobile network coverage
On today’s programme (14 January 2026) we looked at the issue of mobile coverage – and how many people say they’re struggling to get a signal. There are a number of mobile signal strength checkers available, which can help identify where you may struggle to get a reliable connection.
Ofcom – Map Your Mobile
Regulator Ofcom launched its ‘Map Your Mobile’ service in summer 2025. Ofcom told us the tool is designed to “better reflect the mobile coverage people can expect in their area” and that it “empowers people to assess and compare coverage” provided by the networks. It can be found at www.ofcom.org.uk/mobile-coverage-checker
Streetwave
We featured a service called Streetwave on the programme, which says it provides ‘real world’ coverage and network speeds by physically checking outdoor locations. For more information about how it works, the website is https://streetwave.co/
Mobile networks
The four main mobile network service checkers can be found at these links: ·
‘Virtual’ network providers like Tesco Mobile, GiffGaff and Sky Mobile all use one of the four main carrier networks above. Your virtual network provider can tell you which one.
