O2, now under Virgin Media, has announced a significant upgrade to its mobile network in the UK, introducing the advanced 5G Standalone technology to 500 towns and cities. This enhancement is set to benefit over 45 million people, marking the largest 5G Standalone deployment in the country.
For those unfamiliar with 5G Standalone, it offers improved connectivity that is not only faster than older services like 4G but also more dependable. O2 promises users with a 5G-enabled device will enjoy wider coverage, higher download speeds, and reduced latency.
Existing users with a 5G-ready phone and plan will receive these upgrades at no extra cost. Bakewell in Derbyshire recently became the 500th location to benefit from this rollout, commemorated with the creation of a giant Bakewell Tart.
Unlike previous 5G services that relied on 4G elements for data transmission, Virgin Media O2’s 5G Standalone network is built on cutting-edge radio infrastructure and a cloud-based 5G core, enhancing network reliability and expanding coverage for improved digital experiences.
Jeanie York, Chief Technology Officer at Virgin Media O2, expressed the company’s commitment to investing in network improvements to provide a more reliable experience. The expansion of the 5G Standalone network to cover 70% of the population demonstrates their dedication to delivering innovative customer experiences.
Apart from Virgin Media O2, EE has also announced significant network updates, including the adoption of Advanced RAN Coordination (ARC) technology. This advancement is expected to enhance the performance of 5G, resulting in faster speeds, improved video streaming, and more reliable connections for smartphones on the EE 5G network.