UK based mobile operator Three has added about 1.04 million customers, with total customers reaching 8.8 million, adding 300,000 users in the past quarter.
Three said that it had added 850,000 contract customers and about 192,000 pre-pay customers during the 12 months ending 30 September 2012.
Expected to be driven by the firm’s smartphone focus, the rise in users has been supported by a countrywide programme to improve its network.
The operator is implementing DC-HSDPA technology as well as accelerating its backhaul time, the data pipes deployed for connecting its sites to the internet to support its move towards an Ultrafast network experience.
Three UK chief executive Dave Dyson said the firm has led the adoption of smartphones in the UK by giving its customers great coverage, fast speeds and compelling price plans.
"These network improvements are designed to maintain our position as the fastest growing UK mobile operator Dyson said."
Three’s new ultrafast network is anticipated to reach about half the UK population by the end of 2012, as well as cover 80% of the population by April 2013.
About 39% of the population in the UK access to the Ultrafast network, while coverage at present is currently offered in 50 of the UK’s biggest cities and towns.
The capacity of the Ultrafast network will be increased will be maximised through addition of LTE technology, which follows Ofcom’s approval of the operator’s acquisition of 2x15Mhz of radio spectrum at 1800Mhz.
"Our Ultrafast network is giving more people in more places access to an even faster mobile internet experience," Dyson said.
"But mobile internet is about more than just technology.
"All-you-can-eat data at prices to suit everyone and peace of mind bundles that guarantee no surprise data bills are designed to allow customers to get the most enjoyment from their smartphones."
