Vodafone has launched what it calls Britain's first "VIP lane" for mobile signal, a plan named SuperMobile that gives paying customers priority access to its 5G network to tackle congestion at busy locations such as festivals, gigs and sporting events. The company says this addresses a common frustration for users at crowded events, where networks often become overwhelmed, and it claims to be the first mobile provider to offer a guaranteed minimum speed in the way home broadband providers typically do.

The plan offers speeds up to four times faster than standard tariffs, with a guaranteed minimum of 15Mbps in areas with the newest signal infrastructure, achieved by giving subscribers a reserved "slice" of spectrum not shared with other users. It costs an extra £3 to £8 a month depending on the existing plan, or up to £12 as a standalone add-on, and includes threat detection and scam call protection; customers can exit without a penalty if Vodafone confirms it cannot fix persistent speed shortfalls within 30 days. The launch follows VodafoneThree's merger and an £11billion network investment pledge, and the firm plans similar dedicated "slice" technology for emergency services next year.