O2 announces 'free' broadband offer

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

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

The company claims 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.

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 10 Mbps for some of its broadband users.