If it feels like UK broadband has been improving year by year, 2026 is shaping up to confirm that momentum in a big way.
Driven by full-fibre rollout, government intervention, and growing competition, the broadband market is entering a decisive phase that will affect how most households connect to the internet.
Read on to learn more about upcoming changes across the UK.
A Rundown of What Changed in 2025
Last year, we saw VoIP take off in a serious way – and prepared for the end of the landline.
Digital phone calling, satellite internet and 5G all became increasingly popular, but what about fibre broadband?
According to Ofcom’s Connected Nations report, the roll out of full fibre broadband accelerated with speed. Nearly 8 in 10 homes were signed up for full fibre by the end of 2025, and rural areas finally got a much-needed upgrade.
Making Gigabit Broadband More Widely Available
Gigabit-capable broadband coverage in the UK has expanded rapidly and shows no sign of slowing down. Ofcom predict gigabit coverage to rise to as much as 94% in 2026, once the latest deployments are complete. Expect to see improved performance at peak times, as well as a broader choice of high-speed packages – more on this later.
Updates in Rural Areas Across the UK
Historically, rural broadband lagged far behind urban connectivity. Choice of providers was select and speeds were low.
That gap is now narrowing due to government intervention, particularly through Project Gigabit, which aims to deliver gigabit-capable connections to areas unlikely to be served by commercial rollout alone.
By mid-decade, government contracts worth billions of pounds had already been awarded to extend fibre into rural communities. Rural business and home workers will see the most notable changes. 99% of premises are predicted to have full access by 2032, if development targets continue to be hit this year.
Gigabit Speeds Move From Premium to Mainstream in 2026
Gigabit broadband is no longer a niche product.
Ofcom data shows a steady increase in consumer take-up of ultrafast and gigabit services, with a growing proportion of households choosing packages above 500 Mbps. Once reserved for businesses, many homeowners are opting for premium speeds where available.
As network capacity increases, providers are offering more flexible speed tiers, including multi-gigabit options in some areas, signalling a shift in what is considered “standard” broadband.
Increased Competition Puts Pressure on Prices
Increased competition is reshaping the UK broadband market.
Alongside the major, established providers, a growing number of alternative network operators – often referred to as altnets – are building their own full-fibre networks.
A surge in infrastructure has intensified competition in many parts of the country, even as some providers continue to introduce inflation-linked or mid-contract price rises.
In January 2025, Ofcom introduced stricter laws to ensure clarity between providers and consumers, clearly outlining inflation-linked or price rises. With bills consistently on the rise, it’s never been more important to switch providers regularly and compare deals in advance.
Wireless and Fixed Wireless Access Add Alternatives
While fibre remains the gold standard, wireless broadband options are improving. Fixed Wireless Access (FWA), including 5G home broadband, now offers a viable alternative in areas where fibre rollout is slower.
These options are great when you need flexibility above anything else.
Although not a full replacement for fibre, these services are becoming more reliable and competitive – watch this space!
Compare The Latest Deals in Your Area
By 2026, most UK households can expect access to gigabit-capable broadband, improved rural connectivity and stronger competition.
The shift this year will not just about faster speeds, but about accessibility and value.
If you’ve ever wondered if you’re getting your money’s worth for your internet, now is the time to find out.
Blaze through 2026 with the right broadband deal – our experts are waiting to help you. We may receive a commission when you switch via our comparison service, but this does not affect the ranking of broadband deals.
Speak to our experts today.
