KCOM chief says 4G could pose threat to fibre broadband

Super-fast 4G mobile services may pose a threat to the uptake of fibre optic broadband, KCOM finance director Paul Simpson has admitted.

KCOM this week unveiled its latest set of financial results, revealing plans to roll out fibre broadband to a further 30,000 homes and businesses across Hull and east Yorkshire by March 2015.

The company's next-generation broadband network already covers 15,000 properties in the region.

Speaking to the Yorkshire Post, Mr Simpson said the popularity of the service could be hampered by the introduction of 4G technology, which allows smartphone and tablet users to download quickly while out and about.

The UK's first 4G mobile service was recently launched by Everything Everywhere, with rival operators set to follow suit next year.

"Undoubtedly there's a risk that some people become mobile-only households," he acknowledged.

However, the finance chief insisted that fibre optic broadband still offers some noteworthy advantages when compared to 4G connectivity. "It (4G) is not going to offer the speeds of fibre. It's not going to be as reliable," Mr Simpson explained.