- O2 has switched on its next-generation 5G+ Standalone network across Oxfordshire, including Oxford, Banbury and Didcot
- Up to 450,000 residents across 495 towns, villages and hamlets could now benefit from faster speeds, better coverage and lower latency at no extra cost
- The rollout forms part of O2’s £700 million Mobile Transformation Plan, boosting reliability, capacity and coverage across the UK
16 July, Oxfordshire – People and businesses across Oxfordshire – including those in Oxford, Bicester, Witney and Henley-on-Thames – can now access O2’s most advanced mobile network yet, following the switch-on of its next-generation 5G+ service.
Up to 450,000 residents across 495 towns, villages and hamlets in Oxfordshire could now benefit from the upgraded network, which delivers faster speeds, better reliability and reduced latency, helping customers stay connected.
The rollout strengthens the digital infrastructure supporting Oxfordshire’s world-renowned universities, alongside its globally recognised science, technology and research sectors, helping students, educators and businesses continue to drive cutting-edge innovation from within the region.
With thousands of visitors set to explore Oxfordshire during the summer months, reliable mobile connectivity will also play an important role during one of the county’s busiest times of year, helping visitors navigate the county.
O2 continues to expand its 5G+ standalone network
O2’s 5G+ network is available to more than 85% of the UK population, providing customers with faster speeds, lower latency and greater reliability by using dedicated 5G infrastructure rather than relying on 4G technology.
These upgrades form part of Virgin Media O2’s £700 million Mobile Transformation Plan, which will deliver another major upgrade to the company’s mobile network in 2026. The investment will enhance reliability, capacity and coverage across the UK through new masts, small cells, 4G and 5G upgrades, automation and new spectrum deployment.
Professor Robert Joyce, Director of Mobile Access Engineering at O2, said: “Our upgraded 5G+ network is now available across Oxfordshire, bringing faster, more reliable connectivity to one of the UK’s leading centres for innovation, education and tourism.
“Whether exploring the county’s historic attractions, commuting between towns or working within Oxfordshire’s science and technology sector, people rely on mobile connectivity more than ever. Through our Mobile Transformation Plan, we’re continuing to invest in our network to deliver a better experience for customers, while building the digital infrastructure needed to support future innovation.”
O2’s network has been crowned best network for coverage
Virgin Media O2 was named Europe’s most improved mobile network by independent benchmarking firm Umlaut Connect in 2025, reflecting significant gains in reliability, coverage and performance. The company was also awarded Best Mobile Network Coverage at the Uswitch Telecoms Awards for the second year running.
Customers can benefit at no extra charge
Customers can access 5G+ with a compatible device and plan, and by ensuring their SIM is up to date. Some customers may need to switch to a digital eSIM. Full details are available on the O2 website here: https://www.o2.co.uk/5g-plus
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Notes to editors
All cities, towns and villages included in Virgin Media O2’s 5G+ programme rollout have at least 90% 5G+ standalone outdoor coverage.
O2’s rollout in Oxfordshire includes the following locations: Oxford, Banbury, Abingdon, Bicester, Witney, Didcot, Carterton, Kidlington, Henley-on-Thames, Thame, Wantage, and Farringdon.
Local population statistics are according to the latest data held by the ONS Oxford, South Oxfordshire and Cherwell: https://www.ons.gov.uk/explore-local-statistics/areas/E10000025-oxfordshire
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