3 and Orange fall out over network coverage claims

Wed 11 Nov 2009 Comment

Orange and 3 clash over coverage claims

Mobile broadband providers Orange and 3 have had a falling out over network coverage: it's not how many masts you have, it's what you do with them that counts, apparently.

The ruckus is over statements Orange made in its latest ad campaign, where it claimed that it has the largest mobile broadband network in the UK. This is something which 3 vigorously disputes, believing it is the rightful owner of that accolade. 3 lays claim to 9,000 masts in the UK compared to Orange's 7,500.

However, a source at Orange said the company had based its estimates on 3's figures - which give 3 an estimated 91 per cent coverage as compared to Orange's estimated 93 per cent.  The row deteriorated further, with a 3 spokesperson saying it was 'no surprise' that mobile broadband customers are confused on the issue of coverage; and Orange hitting back with the claim that its masts are better positioned than its rivals.

3 has now complained to the Advertising Standards Authority about the advertising, asserting that Orange's claims could potentially mislead customers. All of which leaves the ASA with the ridiculous task of adjudicating between squabbling network providers on an issue that precious few mobile broadband users will give two hoots about. After all, it's not about how many masts there are, or what percentage coverage is achieved, it's all about which percentage you're in - the one where you have coverage or the one where you don't.

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