Plain-English answers about Three, O2, EE, Tesco, switching, and Ofcom rights.
Which UK network has the best 5G in 2026?
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EE leads all major independent tests — umlaut Best in Test 2026 (920/1,000, 11th consecutive year), RootMetrics H1 2025 (93.2/100), Opensignal January 2026 (53.2 Mbps average download, 11 of 15 awards). Three has the fastest 5G peak at 187 Mbps but new Pay Monthly plans are capped at 100 Mbps from April 2026. O2 launched Europe's first satellite-to-phone service, extending UK landmass coverage to 95%.
How do I switch UK network and keep my number?
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Text PAC to 65075. You receive a free 9-character code within minutes. Give it to your new network at sign-up. Your number transfers within one working day and your old contract auto-cancels. Free, legally guaranteed — cannot be refused or delayed. Text STAC to 75075 to leave without keeping your number. Text INFO to 85075 to check your contract end date and exit fee.
Does Three have a speed cap on new plans?
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Yes — from 19 April 2026. New Three Pay Monthly plans are capped at 100 Mbps. New PAYG plans are capped at 25 Mbps (50 Mbps with Auto-Renew Data Pack). A paid Full Speed Add-on removes the Pay Monthly cap. Existing in-term customers are NOT affected.
Is EU roaming free on UK plans in 2026?
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O2 is the only major UK MNO keeping EU roaming free on all standard plans — 49 destinations, 25GB fair-use cap. Three Go Roam covers 163 countries on qualifying Complete plans. EE includes EU free on Essentials Plus and above. Tesco Mobile Home From Home: 48 destinations free.
What is the O2 Satellite service?
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O2 launched Europe's first satellite-to-phone data service on 26 February 2026 via SpaceX Starlink Direct to Cell. Extends UK landmass coverage from 89% to 95%. Samsung Galaxy S25 at launch; iPhone 13+ added 28 May 2026. Supports messaging and data apps only — NOT voice or emergency calls.
What are my rights if my network raises prices?
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Under Ofcom's January 2025 rule, any annual rise must be stated in exact pounds and pence at sign-up. If not disclosed, you have a 30-day penalty-free exit. Tesco Mobile Clubcard Price plans are frozen — no annual rises. From 8 April 2026, complaints can be escalated to the Ombudsman after 6 weeks.
What is an eSIM and which networks support it?
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An eSIM is a digital SIM built into your device — activate via QR code in minutes, no store visit. Compatible with iPhone XS+, Samsung Galaxy S20+, Google Pixel 3+. All major UK networks support eSIM. Dial *#06# — if you see an EID number, your phone supports eSIM.
SIM Only vs Pay Monthly vs PAYG — which is best?
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SIM Only: just a SIM, no handset — cheapest if you own a phone. Pay Monthly: bundles a handset with airtime over 24 months at 0% interest. PAYG: no contract, no credit check — most flexible. At Pay Monthly contract end, switching to SIM Only removes the device cost and usually saves money.
What happened with the Three and Vodafone merger?
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Three UK and Vodafone UK merged on 31 May 2025, creating VodafoneThree — 27 million combined customers, the UK's largest mobile operator. £11 billion 10-year investment committed. In May 2026, Vodafone agreed to buy CK Hutchison's 49% stake for £4.3 billion.
How do I complain about my mobile network?
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Contact your provider's complaints team and request a reference number. If unresolved after 6 weeks (from 8 April 2026), escalate free to the Communications Ombudsman (typically EE/O2) or CISAS (typically Vodafone/Sky). ADR decisions are binding on providers.
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