EE, a leading UK mobile network operator, offers a range of benefits and features to its customers, including network services, device support, and promotional incentives. The company, formed from the merger of Orange and T-Mobile in 2010 and rebranded to EE in 2012, was the first UK mobile company to launch 4G services. As of 2024, EE serves over 27 million customers and operates 700 stores across the UK. Its network coverage extends to 99% of the UK population for 4G, 3G, and 2G services, with a goal to extend 4G coverage to 95% of UK geography by 2020. Independent testing in October 2020 found that EE’s 4G download and upload speeds were 36.4/9.1 Mbps, outperforming other networks. The network is owned by BT.
Network Features and Benefits
EE provides several network features and benefits to its customers. These include Wi-Fi Calling, 4G Calling, Data Rollover, EU roaming, and Tethering. Wi-Fi Calling and 4G Calling are highlighted as class-leading features, allowing users to make calls using Wi-Fi or 4G signal instead of conventional 2G/3G signal. These features are available on any pay monthly SIM, phone contract, or Pay As You Go plan. EE supports a wide range of devices for Wi-Fi Calling, including older Android models.
In addition to core network services, EE offers a selection of benefits that may be included with certain plans or available as add-ons. These benefits include: - Unlimited music (Apple Music) - Apple TV+ - BT Sports Ultimate - Xbox Game Pass Ultimate - Apple Arcade - EE Lifetime Warranty - Annual Device MOT - £10 of protective kit - Rapid repairs - Superfast delivery
EE also provides customer support through its website, the My EE app, phone, and live chat during office hours. There is an online community forum for user assistance. Customer service scores are reported as average, with a Trustpilot score of 2.3 out of 5 stars.
Promotional Offers and Discounts
EE has a history of promotional offers and discounts for customers. The network offers a great range of phones, tablets, and accessories from brands including Apple, Samsung, Sony, and HTC, with various price plans to suit different budgets and data needs. Customers can shop online or visit a store to get the latest phones.
One promotional method mentioned is the ability to sign up to receive notifications of EE deals directly via email. This allows customers to receive information about the best offers instantly. Discount codes are also available, with deals checked to ensure they work and provide savings. Offers are updated periodically, with one source noting an update in July 2024.
EE also offers broadband services, including the option to upgrade to a fibre connection depending on location. This superfast service is suitable for families or households using multiple digital devices simultaneously.
Network Performance and Coverage
EE’s network performance is a key selling point. The company operates the largest 3G network in the UK and invests heavily in 4G services, which are reported to be five times faster than 3G. This speed is beneficial for activities such as watching movies, streaming music, or sharing the internet from a mobile device.
For 4G data, EE is recognised as having the fastest speeds in the country, with typical speeds reaching up to 47.7 Mbps according to network testers. This allows for comfortable streaming of 4K videos. The network’s 5G rollout is progressing, with coverage in 317+ UK towns and cities. EE defines coverage as an area where 5G is available in 50% of its location, which is a stricter standard than some competitors. Typical 5G speeds are between 108.91 Mbps and 122.3 Mbps, with peak speeds of 272.77 Mbps.
Coverage is reported to be strong in urban, suburban, and rural areas. Independent testing suggests that users are unlikely to lose call signal entirely unless in geographically unusual locations. Data coverage is similarly robust.
Alternative Providers on EE’s Network
Some virtual operators use EE’s network, offering similar coverage and features at potentially lower costs. One such provider, 1pMobile, is noted for having equal access to EE’s full 5G, 4G, 3G, and 2G networks with no speed caps. It also includes Wi-Fi Calling and 4G Calling, all without a contract, for a fraction of the price of EE directly. 1pMobile is described as the only virtual operator with all these features. Another option mentioned is BT Mobile, but it is closed to new customers.
Eligibility and Access
Access to EE’s services and promotional offers generally requires becoming a customer through a SIM-only plan, phone contract, or Pay As You Go plan. Specific eligibility for certain benefits (like unlimited music or sports subscriptions) may depend on the chosen plan. For example, accessing the full speed of 4G or 5G may require a premium plan, and EU roaming might incur additional costs on some plans.
The process to access network features like Wi-Fi Calling is typically automatic for supported devices when a Wi-Fi connection is available. To receive promotional deal notifications, customers can sign up via EE’s website or app. Discount codes can be applied during purchase on EE’s online store.
Conclusion
EE provides a comprehensive mobile network service in the UK, known for its extensive coverage and fast 4G and 5G speeds. The network offers a suite of features including Wi-Fi Calling and 4G Calling, alongside various benefits such as entertainment subscriptions and device protection. Customers can access promotional offers and discounts, often by signing up for deal notifications or using discount codes. While EE’s services are recognised for performance, they are also noted for being relatively expensive compared to some competitors, with additional costs for premium features. Alternative providers like 1pMobile utilise EE’s network infrastructure, offering similar coverage and features at a lower price point. Consumers should evaluate plans based on their specific needs for data, coverage, and included benefits.