EE is extending its small cell network agreement with Freshwave, a UK connectivity infrastructure-as-a-service provider, beyond the trial phase following the success of a project in the City of London. The outdoor small cell network has been expanded, with 25 new sites now live to enhance 4G and 5G coverage for mobile operator EE. The project, led by Freshwave, aims to boost mobile capacity in the Square Mile, one of the busiest financial districts.
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New Sites Enhance 4G and 5G Connectivity
Dozens of additional new sites for EE are also currently being built and will further enhance mobile connectivity in more parts of the Square Mile once they go live, Freshwave announced on Tuesday.
Freshwave has developed a shareable infrastructure that supports all four major mobile network operators (MNOs) on both 4G and 5G. This approach reduces street clutter and environmental impact while providing seamless connectivity in high-demand areas.
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Data Usage Surges at EE Pilot Sites
EE, the first MNO to go live in December 2022, has seen data usage of up to 7.5TB weekly across the pilot sites. The new live locations include key landmarks such as St Paul's Cathedral and Threadneedle Street, with additional sites under construction, according to the release.
Simon Frumkin, Freshwave's CEO, said: "We believe that multi-operator, shareable digital infrastructure is the future of mobile connectivity. Our unique approach allows mobile network operators to enhance their networks where they need it most, with minimal disruption to surrounding communities, and we look forward to continuing to expand the network."
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Freshwave
Freshwave, backed by DigitalBridge, manages some of the UK's most significant and challenging wireless environments, including several central London boroughs and Docklands. The company oversees around 5,000 mast site locations, connects over 2,000 buildings, and supports more than 200 outdoor networks.
