Vodafone has launched its 'SuperMobile' plan, introducing a premium service that promises priority access to its 5G network and a minimum speed guarantee. The new offering aims to address persistent signal problems experienced at crowded venues such as music festivals, concerts, and sporting events.
The SuperMobile plan provides customers with priority on Vodafone's 5G network, which the company states will result in faster speeds and greater reliability. Customers can expect speeds up to four times faster than standard offerings, with a guaranteed minimum of 15Mbps in its most updated signal areas. This represents the first time a mobile network provider in the UK has offered a minimum speed guarantee, a feature typically associated with home broadband services.
This premium option is designed for users who require consistent and robust connectivity for activities like rapid downloads and streaming. Vodafone has stated that customers will be able to leave the plan without an exit fee if the guaranteed speeds are not met and Vodafone cannot resolve the issue within 30 days.
The cost of the SuperMobile plan varies depending on the existing plan structure. It is priced at an additional £3 per month for standard plans, £8 more for SIM-only plans, or £4 more for handset plans. A rolling add-on option is available for £12 per month. A business plan tailored for small enterprises with one to nine employees is also being offered.
Rob Winterschladen, of Vodafone, described SuperMobile as a "next generation mobile experience" offering customers access to a dedicated "5G+ FastTrack." He highlighted that the plan delivers faster speeds, enhanced reliability, and advanced security features, including the UK's first minimum speed guarantee for a mobile network.
Technologically, the service operates by allocating paying customers to a reserved segment of the mobile spectrum, separate from users not on the premium plan. In areas where this dedicated spectrum is unavailable, users on SuperMobile will still receive data prioritization over other customers.
Vodafone asserts that this prioritization does not violate net neutrality principles, as it pertains to network access rather than prioritizing specific websites or applications. The company is also deploying similar technology for emergency services, creating a dedicated 'National Critical Slice' to ensure connectivity for police, fire, and ambulance crews during major incidents.
This initiative follows Vodafone's pledge to invest £11 billion in improving its network infrastructure. In testing, Vodafone reported achieving speeds of up to 724Mbps on the new network, though actual day-to-day speeds will fluctuate based on location.
Beyond connectivity, the SuperMobile plans also include built-in threat detection, identity monitoring, and AI-powered scam call protection features.