Exploring the underlying factors of poor mobile signals reveal more than location

The success of location-based service delivery, such as those provided by mobile networks, relies on a number of factors such as infrastructure, demand and most especially, location. With over 7.6 billion mobile connections recorded in 2015, the increasing demand to connect has become more evident.

Mobile networks can be explained simply. A GSMA report states that radio signals provide a wide range of voice, video and other data services. These radio signals are then transmitted between fixed radio transmitters and various mobile devices.

While the explanation may be simple, mobile network providers still struggle with the underlying factors that may affect network performance. Wireless network Solutions Company, 4Gon , says that network performance depends on various factors such as physical obstructions, signal sharing, network range and the distance between devices.

However, researchers from London’s Imperial College of Business School discovered that lower-income neighbourhoods have worse mobile phone coverage. Using crowdsourced information which mapped mobile coverage in several countries, the study revealed that lower-income regions in the United States receive almost 15 percent less network compared to their affluent counterparts. It clearly depicted the divide in mobile phone coverage between cash-strapped areas and those living in affluent neighborhoods.

“Apart from the various obstacles like large buildings, hills, or valleys that result in ‘patchy’ coverage this study shows that there are many other factors that influence whether people receive good mobile network coverage,” said Dr Pantelis Koutroumpis, co-author of the study.

Associate professor and author of the study, Aija Leiponen, in an interview with the Huffington Post, said that the result should not come as a surprise. “Telecom operators are in the business of maximizing their profits while providing service in areas with higher demand,” said Leiponen.

The logic of the study reflects how low-income people tend to acquire internet access in modest ways such as mobile phones. These people's inability to access landlines and other internet services limit their capacity to access high-speed internet. Higher income people, on the other hand, have plenty of resources that help boost signal strength.

In addition, the study hopes to ask governing bodies and institutions to provide equal access to internet service that also includes wireless providers. Various technologies have emerged that boost signal strength such as femtocells, signal boosters and wireless antennas.

Femtocells, according to the Cornell Chronicle , connect a phone service provider through internet and broadcast network signals in small areas. A similar device was developed by mobile tech innovator 5BARz International which is a network extender. This single plug-and-play product enhances indoor network signals that can be used in the home or office.

Studies that reveal the underlying factors limiting mobile coverage are essential for regulators and network providers in order to improve their services. While these entities work to improve regulations, tech companies offer a clear and immediate solution to poor signal strength.