O2, now a part of Virgin Media, is expanding its network coverage across the UK with the introduction of 5G Standalone technology in 500 towns and cities, benefiting over 45 million people. This upgrade offers faster and more reliable connectivity compared to older services like 4G.
Users with 5G-ready devices will experience broader coverage, higher download speeds, and reduced latency without any additional costs. The recent milestone of deploying 5G Standalone in Bakewell, Derbyshire, marks the 500th location to receive this technology.
Unlike previous 5G services, Virgin Media O2’s 5G Standalone network is built on advanced radio infrastructure and a cloud-based core, enhancing network reliability and paving the way for future digital innovations.
Jeanie York, Chief Technology Officer at Virgin Media O2, emphasized the company’s commitment to investing in network improvements to provide a more reliable customer experience. The expansion of the 5G Standalone network to cover 70% of the population demonstrates their dedication to enhancing connectivity and preparing for future innovations.
EE, another major provider, has also announced significant network updates, including the implementation of Advanced RAN Coordination (ARC) technology to improve the performance and reliability of its 5G network. This advancement is expected to deliver faster download speeds, improved video streaming, and more reliable connections for users on the EE 5G network.