Ofcom Jumps On Board the Train Connectivity Debate

UK communications watchdog, Ofcom, has released some damming data on train connectivity. In a report published yesterday, the regulator claims that mobile performance was “poor” on between 58% and 83% of tests carried out on trains, depending on which network was being scrutinised.

In what it says is the most comprehensive such study to date, Ofcom measured mobile performance on 24 segments of key railway lines across mainland Britain.

The results were that EE’s signal could be classed as good on 42% of the sections of lines that were measured, Three on 21%, O2 on 20% and Vodafone on 17%.

The test defined “good performance”, as minimum download speeds of 5Mbps with an upload speed of at least 1.5Mbps. It also included a response time of 50 milliseconds or less, thus enabling video calls and streaming. It is assumed everything below this standard is counted as “poor”.

On-board WiFi provided by train companies was also measured and performed well just 1% of the time. However, Ofcom reported that this was largely due to outdated technology delivering the service, as well as speed caps.

The regulator argues that increased competition between mobile networks, plus greater investment in more masts won’t on their own be enough to improve mobile signal on trains. As reported recently, the UK Government is currently considering options for how it can help (https://www.traincomms.com/news_detail.cfm?item=21634 ).

 As well as providing technical advice to Government to help inform its approach, Ofcom said it will also look at whether more spectrum is required.

In a masterful piece of under-statement, Mobile UK, which represents the major phone providers, said there were "unique structural and capacity challenges" to keeping good train signal.

Meanwhile, the regulator said mobile networks and local authorities need to "step up" to provide more reliable services across the country. By which it means loosening planning restrictions on new base stations.

Ofcom’s Group Director for Infrastructure and Connectivity, Natalie Black, said: “People rightly expect connectivity they can count on — and delivering it will require a joined‑up national effort.”

The regulator is keen to hear feedback on its report and suggestions for going forward should be sent to it by 29^th July.

The spread of on-board WiFi services, trackside wireless delivery and the increasing use of LEO satellites to boost connectivity will all be fully discussed at this year’s WiFi on Trains Conference, hosted by BWCS in London (www.Traincomms.com ).

The Main Sponsors for Traincomms 2026 are Icomera, Huber+Suhner and Nomad Digital. Westermo, Hughes Europe, CGI, Unwired and Eutelsat are also Sponsoring the Conference. Antonics is an Expo Sponsor.

Tickets to attend the Conference are available now via http://traincomms.com/book1.cfm

For more information on attending this year’s Conference please contact [email protected]

The full programme for the 2026 Traincomms Conference can be reserved here: https://www.traincomms.com/#content2b