Virgin Media O2 (VMO2) has become the first operator in the UK to deploy 5G standalone (SA) small cells in central Birmingham, enhancing mobile connectivity in the city’s busiest areas. Installed on existing street furniture, this new technology provides faster browsing, streaming, and seamless work experiences, with speeds of up to 300 Mbps, VMO2 said.
Also Read: Virgin Media O2 and Ontix Deploy Outdoor Small Cells in Reading
5G Standalone Small Cells in Birmingham
This deployment in central Birmingham marks the first use of 5G standalone technology for small cells in the UK. The small cells, delivered in partnership with Ontix and Alpha Wireless, leverage MIMO (Multiple Input Multiple Output) technology and deliver massive speeds.
5G Standalone Network Across the UK
Virgin Media O2 launched its 5G standalone network earlier this year and has since expanded it, now live in over 300 towns and cities across the UK. VMO2 explained that 5G standalone offers higher bandwidth and lower latency connections compared to 4G and 5G non-standalone.
Virgin Media O2, said: "Small cells are playing a vital part in our mission to bring reliable mobile coverage to all customers and improve services in the busiest areas."
"Having already turned on our cutting-edge 5G standalone network in more than 300 towns and cities, available to customers at no extra cost, we’re working hard to ensure all our customers consistently receive an exceptional network experience wherever they are and even at the busiest times."
Also Read: Nexfibre, Virgin Media O2 Partner to Provide Free Fibre Broadband to UK Youth Centres
Rising Mobile Data Demand
The UK mobile operator stated that this deployment is part of Virgin Media O2's broader network upgrade strategy. This comes against a backdrop of rising demand, as mobile data consumption by O2 customers increased by 26 percent in 2023.
