The latest telecom news includes announcements on Virgin Media O2, subscribers in Nigeria’s mobile market, BTCL, among others.
Scotland Prepares for 3G Shutdown as Virgin Media O2 Expands 4G and 5G
Virgin Media O2 will switch off its 3G network in parts of Scotland starting November 5, including Aberdeen and Dundee, as part of a UK-wide plan to retire 3G services by the end of 2025. The freed spectrum will be used to expand 4G and 5G networks. Most customers with 4G or 5G devices do not need to take action. Customers without compatible devices are being contacted and offered support, including free 4G-ready devices for eligible users or discounted upgrades. The 3G network, launched over 20 years ago, now carries less than 2 percent of network data.
Telecoms Leave 40 percent of Customer Value Untapped, Push for Digital and Service Innovation
Telecom operators are realizing only 60 percent of their customer value potential, leaving 40 percent untapped. The average Net Promoter Score (NPS) for telecoms is 14, compared to 16–80 in other sectors. Average revenue per user (ARPU) declined by 7 percent from the previous year. To address this gap, operators are implementing strategies focused on customer value: first-call resolution to improve initial customer interactions, streamlining service touchpoints, loyalty programs to increase retention, digital engagement to personalize interactions, and up-sell and cross-sell of additional services.
Nigeria’s Mobile Market Surges to 171.3 Million Subscriptions
Nigeria’s mobile telecom sector recorded 171.3 million active subscriptions in August 2025, up from July. MTN led with 89.6 million subscribers, holding 52.31 percent market share. Airtel followed with 58 million subscribers (33.89 percent), Globacom had 20.9 million (12.21 percent), and 9mobile maintained 2.7 million (1.59 percent). Teledensity rose to 79.14 percent from 78.11 percent in July. Year-on-year, subscriptions increased by 6.3 million from August 2024. Operators’ growth was driven by network expansion, promotions, and introduction of digital services.
BTCL Launches Virtual Network SIMs in Bangladesh
Bangladesh Telecommunications Company (BTCL) has launched mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) SIM cards and app-based IP calling through the Alap IP phone app, offering unlimited voice packages under certain conditions. The launch follows reforms in the National Telecommunication Network and Licensing Policy 2025, which allow state companies to operate as MVNOs. MVNOs lease network capacity from existing carriers instead of owning infrastructure. BTCL aims to become the first public-sector entity in Bangladesh to operate as an MVNO, expanding consumer services using leased network capacity. BTCL plans to expand internet services through BTCL GPON and ISP connections, offering unlimited data. Optional subscriptions to local streaming platforms including Bongo, Chorki, and Hoichoi will be available, with potential access to international services like Netflix and Amazon Prime.
Shfana Fazal
