O2, now part of Virgin Media, is expanding its network coverage in the UK by introducing the latest 5G Standalone technology to 500 towns and cities, benefiting over 45 million people. This upgraded network promises faster speeds, broader coverage, and reduced latency for users with 5G-enabled devices at no extra cost. The recent addition of Bakewell, Derbyshire, as the 500th location with 5G Standalone marks a significant milestone for Virgin Media O2.
This new 5G Standalone network, as explained by O2, is a cutting-edge, end-to-end infrastructure that enhances reliability, expands coverage, and sets the stage for innovative digital experiences. Users who are already equipped with 5G-ready devices will automatically enjoy the improved speeds without any additional steps required.
Virgin Media O2’s Chief Technology Officer, Jeanie York, emphasized the company’s commitment to investing in network improvements, with a focus on providing a reliable experience for customers. This extensive network expansion aims to cover 70% of the population across various towns and cities, setting the groundwork for future innovations and customer-centric services.
In a similar move, EE has announced network updates incorporating Advanced RAN Coordination (ARC) technology to enhance the performance and reliability of its 5G network. By implementing this technology, EE aims to deliver faster download speeds, seamless video streaming, and more reliable connections to smartphones connected to their 5G network.