MVNO (Mobile Virtual Network Operator) is an online operator or provider that cannot have its own network. It can provide provision of services to its subscribers only using the infrastructure of MNO. Most operators in the UK use the infrastructure that is provided by four main national operators: EE, O2, Vodafone and Three. If they rent this infrastructure they can provide their own subscriber service, paying systems and marketing. In the UK there are lots of MVNO’s, let’s have a look if you know some of them and what they are!
What is MVNO?
MVNO doesn’t have their own infrastructure, so it relies on MNO’s. Usually, MVNO is another brand of the MNO. The MNO sells their calls, texts and data to the MVNO with cheap prices.
In contradistinction to Mobile Network Operator, Mobile Virtual Network Operator cannot obtain its own license to operate over a range of frequencies. Furthermore, the Mobile Virtual Network Operator cannot obtain the infrastructure to operate a Mobile Network. They will not have masts, transmitters, switches, wires, but they may have some administrative capabilities. Usually most of them retain or control Customer Relations, Marketing and Branding. This may differ in various MVNO’s.
The bigger MVNO can obtain its own operation and business support systems. The bigger MVNO can send the bill to the subscribers on its own. Smaller MVNOs are under the MNO. Smaller MVNOs cannot provide their subscribers with payment information, it is done by MNOs.
Which mobile providers in the UK are MVNO’s?
The mobile industry is large and rival, because here are many otherMVNOs in the UK. Here are some of the biggest and most used MVNOs you may know or use:
| MVNO | Network |
| Anywhere Sim | EE, O2, Three, Vodafone |
| BT Mobile | EE |
| Gemini Mobile | EE |
| Giffgaff | O2 |
| Lebara Mobile | Vodafone |
| Lyca mobile | O2 |
| Plusnet Mobile | EE |
| Sky Mobile | O2 |
| Tesco Mobile | O2 |
| To The Moon Mobile | EE |
| Virgin Mobile | EE |
Why choose MVNO?
- It can give you the same service as national operators;
- It can propose you strong mobile coverage. There is no difference between MNO and MVNO coverage, because the last one uses the coverage of the first one. It is the same thing;
- Some of MVNO’s are able to propose you cheap smartphones if you are thinking about buying the new one;
- Some of MVNO’s propose rival SIM plans or pay as you go deals. You can pick up the package that is needed for you;
- Some of MVNO’s propose unlimited data, if you are an active user of the Internet and communication apps;
- It can propose you a beneficial roaming SIM for calling abroad;
- It can offer you a SIM that can connect to different networks.
To The Moon Mobile is a brand new youngest MVNO
To The Moon Mobile (TTMM) is a brand new youngest MVNO powered by EE. TTMM is an online mobile operator in the UK. This operator can propose SIM Only plans for 30 days with calls and texts in the UK. TTMM can give you the best 4G coverage for calling and messages and fastest 4G data network that is provided by EE and mobile app to manage plans, check your bundle allowance, add a payment system or order a new SIM card.
This online operator is based on EE’s safe coverage. TTMM proposes 2G, 3G and 4G network for 99% of the population in the UK with 90% geographical coverage. Also, the father network aims to cover all the country.
If you want to try all the benefits of MVNO, join To The Moon Mobile. TTMM proposes you safe coverage, the best 4G data and the best quality of your phone calls. Also, it gives you a mobile app where you can: order a free SIM, check your bundle allowance, change your plan, add a payment method or chat with the support team anytime, and much more!
Talk Home Mobile
Talk Home Mobile runs on EE, UK’s premier mobile network. Users don’t have to sign up for a minimum sign up period or undergo a credit check when joining Talk Home, as there are no contracts or obligations.
Customers can purchase a 30-day plan that includes set minutes, texts, and data, or use your credit according to standard rates. The company offers a variety of plans for different countries that are available with different denominations, so customers can choose a plan that is cheaper if they wish.