The UK’s 5G coverage and mobile data consumption continue to grow at pace, strengthening the nation’s mobile connectivity landscape. Ofcom’s July 2025 findings show that 5G coverage outside premises now reaches between 94% and 97% of the UK from at least one mobile network operator (MNO), highlighting strong progress in nationwide 5G rollout.

Individual MNOs report 5G outdoor coverage between 64% and 89%, depending on deployment strategies and spectrum holdings.

5G Standalone (5G SA) Coverage Reaches 83% of the UK

For the first time, Ofcom has released dedicated data on 5G Standalone (5G SA), the next-generation, fully native 5G architecture.
At the High Confidence level, 5G SA is now available across 83% of areas outside premises from at least one MNO, demonstrating rapid evolution beyond 5G Non-Standalone (NSA) networks.

This shift positions 5G SA as a critical foundation for low-latency applications, enterprise private networks, and future mobile innovation.

4G Coverage Remains Strong With 96% UK Landmass Reached

The UK’s 4G coverage remains robust, with at least one operator now serving 96% of the UK landmass.

To give consumers and businesses a clearer picture of real-world mobile experience, Ofcom launched the Map Your Mobile tool in early 2025. Using this combined 4G/5G methodology:

• 88% of the UK landmass has good outdoor coverage from at least one MNO.
• 96% of landmass has variable outdoor coverage, ensuring broad access to mobile connectivity across rural and remote areas.

Mobile Data Usage Up 18% Year-on-Year

Mobile data consumption continues to accelerate. In July 2025, total monthly usage reached 1,257 petabytes (PB)—an 18% increase compared to the previous year.

5G networks are seeing the fastest growth:

• 5G traffic increased by 53%, rising from 227 PB to 348 PB.
• 5G SA traffic now represents almost one-third of total 5G usage, showing strong adoption of next-generation networks.
• 4G remains the dominant mobile technology, carrying 72% (902 PB) of all monthly mobile data.

UK Operators Advance 3G Switch-Off and Prepare for 2G Retirement

The UK continues its transition away from legacy mobile technologies. Around two million devices still rely on 2G/3G networks, but this number is falling quickly.

• Two MNOs have already completed their 3G switch-off, freeing spectrum for 4G and 5G expansion.
• All UK operators have committed to retiring 2G services by 2033 at the latest.

This network transition will enable faster speeds, lower latency, and improved efficiency across the UK mobile ecosystem.

‍