Sky Mobile runs on O2’s network and will launch 5G by November 2019. Its entry into the market is likely to make the UK one of the most competitive by the end of 2019.
The virtual mobile network operator will start with coverage in six urban areas mirroring O2’s rollout, and reach 20 towns and cities before the end of 2019, and a total of 50 by the end of 2020
Clear threat
Although O2 is the last of the UK’s four network operators in deploying 5G, Paolo Pescatore, Tech, Media & Telco Analyst with PP Foresight, commented, “The mobile network operators need to watch out as this move poses a considerable threat.”
“5G represents a significant opportunity for Sky to steal market share.
“It is becoming harder for telcos to differentiate on connectivity beyond price alone. Sky, armed with its innovative mobile features and breath of content, is very well placed to compete head on. For now, from an overall services perspective it seems to be in pole position.
“However, it is largely dependent on O2’s network rollout. Moving forward you can foresee [the] companies becoming more closely aligned.
“The UK will be one of the most competitive 5G markets in the world by the end of this year.”
Built for entertainment
Sky says 5G will enable it to deliver entertainment on the go with download speeds up to ten times faster than 4G and up to 1Gbps via Sky’s app, and this won’t use customers’ data allowance.
All Sky Mobile’s plans come with Roll, which automatically rolls unused data over at the end of each month into a customer’s piggybank. Rolled data can be kept for up to three years and used whenever you need a little extra data boost, or exchanged for money off new phones, tablets and accessories.
Those opting for a 5G handset can choose to update their phone every year without changing contract with Sky Mobile’s Swap plans.
The first 5G handset on offer from Sky will be the Huawei Mate 20 X 5G, which has a clear 7.2-inch OLED display, built for mobile viewing and entertainment.
The Huawei Mate 20 X 5G starts from £36 per month on Swap24 excluding the data plan.
Customers can add 8GB allowance and Unlimited Calls & Texts for just £10 instead of £15, saving themselves £150.
Sky Mobile will be launching more 5G ready handsets later in the year, including the Samsung Galaxy S10 5G.
Killer combo?
Sophia Ahmad, Commercial Director of Sky Mobile, said “We will be the only mobile operator [that can] combine the launch of next generation superfast 5G connectivity with Sky Mobile’s unique features including Roll, Swap and Watch.”
Anyone interested in learning more about Sky Mobile’s 5G offering can register their interest at: www.sky.com/5g.