Vodafone has announced today that its 4G network, launched in June 2013, now has over 1 million devices connected. Vodafone claims that its network, revitalised, grown and rebuilt since the debacle of its performance in 2010, is offering great network performance at a lower price point than its competitors. This claim, it seems, has some merit to it.
Recent speed comparisons, published by Fairfax, show that Vodafone 4G is comfortably faster than Telstra and Optus in some areas, and while it’s 3G speeds might not be as fast, they’re still pretty good. These findings certainly mirror what Ausdroid has found in use of all three carriers across Sydney and Melbourne.
Vodafone had this to say this morning:
In just eight months we have crossed the million device threshold, which equates to around 30,000 new devices on our 4G network every week,
As much as some detractors joke about Vodafone’s well-known network issues in 2010, the fact is in 2014, Vodafone’s networks, both 3G and 4G, are offering consistent fast, reliable data speeds right around the country.
Kim Clarke, Chief Marketing Officer
One does need to bear in mind, though, that while Vodafone’s network is performing admirably at the moment, this could be a product of a smaller, newer network combined with a smaller customer base. In 2010, the inexcusably bad performance of their network was a significant factor in the droves of customers leaving Vodafone behind, many swearing never to return.
Time will show whether Vodafone can reclaim significant market share, and if its prices stay low and network performance stays fast, we can see this as a real possibility. Those who want to try Vodafone out can do so with a fair amount of confidence, as Vodafone do offer a 30-day network guarantee. If the network isn’t up to your expectations, you can leave with no penalty.
Vodafone has also compared its offerings on a $60 plan, which offers 1.5 GB included data, compared with 1 GB included on equivalent plans from Telstra.
