O2 to offer "free" broadband in UK

"Free" home broadband is being launched in the UK by mobile operator O2.

O2 customers who buy a £20-per-month mobile broadband package will receive the "up to" 8Mbps home service free for a year and a wireless router.

The company claims that it is "the first established broadband player to offer customers high speed internet access inside the home and on the move" in a combined package.

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The offer is open to people signing up to O2 Mobile Broadband between 1 August and 31 October who live within range of the O2 Home Broadband network. Customers outside the network will get a discount on their chosen plan instead.

O2 will also offer a "broadband in a box" package where people can buy a wireless router and all the kit they need to get O2 home broadband up and running in one box for £30.

Earlier this year Virgin Media announced a free speed upgrade to 10Mbps for some of its broadband users.