The latest Connected Nations report published by the UK’s telecommunications regulator, Ofcom, published its report which  provides a snapshot of the country’s digital landscape as of January 2024, based on data collected since the previous report.

The interim update is a glimpse of the UK’s effort to enhance digital infrastructure and connectivity, with notable advancements in broadband and mobile coverage.

One standout milestone from the report is that eight in ten UK households now have gigabit-capable broadband, with 24 million homes reached. This, up from 23.2 million homes reported in the previous update in September 2023. 

On top of this, 18.7 million homes now have full fibre coverage, making up 62% of households. This, according to the report, is a 5% increase in just four months. 

Superfast broadband, on the other hand, superfast broadband coverage remains robust, maintaining a high level of 97% across the UK, ensuring widespread access to high-speed internet services.

The developments were not just centred around upgrades to areas which already have infrastructure either, according to the report, the number of premises unable to get decent (>10Mps download speed) broadband dropped from 61,000 to 57,000 premises.

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Looking at mobile coverage, the report indicates stability in both 4G and 5G networks. Approximately 93% of the UK landmass has outdoor 4G coverage from at least one operator, with nearly all premises falling within this coverage area. Similarly, around 92% of premises can access a 5G signal outdoors from at least one mobile network operator, according to the report. 

Looking ahead, the report mentions upcoming plans to deploy very high-capacity networks (VHCN) over the next three years. Additionally, the next annual Connected Nations report is slated for release in late 2024.