UK’s Prolonged Network Outage: Unresolved Issues Leave Millions Stranded Without Calls

Three Mobile Apologizes for Ongoing Network Outage, Thousands Affected

Three Mobile, a UK-based mobile provider, has issued an apology for an ongoing network outage that has left thousands of customers without service. The issue, which began at approximately 1:00 pm UK time on January 2023, has been ongoing for several hours and has caused frustration for many users.

According to user reports, including those on social media, the outage has resulted in no ability to make or receive phone calls, including to emergency services. Many customers have taken to social media to express their frustrations, with some even reporting difficulty accessing essential services.

At the time of writing, the issues persist, with the company reporting that a small percentage of users are still experiencing problems. In a statement, Three acknowledged the issue, stating, "We’re aware of an ongoing issue affecting a small percentage of voice services and are working hard to fix it. Data services are unaffected. We’re really sorry if you’ve been affected by this."

The outage has also affected mobile virtual network operators (MVNOs) Smarty and ID Mobile, which rely on Three’s infrastructure. As the network continues to struggle, thousands of customers remain without service.

UK communications regulator Ofcom has also taken notice of the issue, stating, "We are aware that Three is experiencing problems with its network. We are in contact with Three to establish the scale and cause of the problem as soon as possible."

What does it mean for you?

As Three’s merger with Vodafone approaches, the lack of competition in the UK mobile market is starting to show. With the four major networks shrinking to three, customers may be left with less options when issues like this arise. In the past, more networks meant more competition, leading to better prices and more transparency. With fewer options, customers may be more vulnerable to outages and service disruptions.

Key Points:

• The outage began at approximately 1:00 pm UK time on January 2023 and is still ongoing.
• Thousands of customers are affected, including many who cannot make or receive phone calls, including to emergency services.
• The outage is affecting Three’s mobile network, as well as mobile virtual network operators Smarty and ID Mobile.
• UK regulator Ofcom is in contact with Three to establish the scale and cause of the problem.
• The three major networks in the UK will number only three after the Vodafone and Three merger, potentially leaving customers with fewer options and increased vulnerability to outages.