O2, now part of Virgin Media, is rolling out 5G Standalone technology to 500 towns and cities across the UK, benefiting over 45 million people. This advanced network upgrade promises improved connectivity for streaming, downloading, and video calling on the go. Users with 5G-ready devices will enjoy broader coverage, faster download speeds, and reduced latency without any additional cost.
The recent deployment in Bakewell, Derbyshire, marked the 500th location to receive Virgin Media O2’s 5G Standalone network. Unlike previous 5G services, this new network is independent and enhances reliability and coverage for next-gen digital experiences.
Jeanie York, Chief Technology Officer at Virgin Media O2, highlighted the company’s commitment to investing in network enhancements, aiming to provide a more reliable mobile experience. With 70% of the population covered, the expansion of the 5G Standalone network sets the stage for innovative customer-led solutions.
In parallel, EE has introduced Advanced RAN Coordination technology, claiming to offer faster and more consistent 5G performance. This technology upgrade is set to improve download speeds, video streaming, and overall connectivity for EE 5G network users, showcasing a significant advancement in mobile network capabilities.