O2, now part of Virgin Media, is expanding its network to bring 5G Standalone technology to over 500 towns and cities across the UK. This upgrade will benefit more than 45 million people, making it the largest 5G Standalone deployment in the country.
For those unfamiliar with 5G Standalone, it offers a more reliable and faster way to stay connected compared to older services like 4G. Users connected to O2’s 5G signal through a 5G device can expect broader coverage, higher download speeds, and reduced latency.
Existing customers with a 5G-ready phone and plan will not incur any additional charges with this update. Bakewell in Derbyshire recently became the 500th location to receive Virgin Media O2’s 5G Standalone rollout, marked by the creation of a giant Bakewell Tart.
Unlike previous 5G services that relied on parts of the 4G network, Virgin Media O2’s 5G Standalone network is built on the latest radio infrastructure and a cloud-based 5G core. This enhances network reliability, expands coverage, and sets the stage for next-generation digital experiences.
Jeanie York, Chief Technology Officer at Virgin Media O2, emphasized the company’s £2 million daily investment to enhance the mobile network for customers. By expanding the 5G Standalone network to cover 70% of the population, they aim to deliver a more reliable experience and prepare for future innovations.
EE, another major provider, announced significant network updates, including the introduction of Advanced RAN Coordination (ARC) technology. This advancement is expected to improve the performance of 5G, resulting in faster download speeds, enhanced video streaming, and more reliable connections for smartphones on the EE 5G network.