People and businesses across Bristol can now access O2’s most advanced mobile network yet, after the operator switched on its next-generation 5G+ service across the city. Up to 495,000 people could benefit from faster speeds, better reliability and lower latency at no extra cost.
O2’s next-generation 5G+ network is now live across Bristol, giving eligible customers faster speeds, better reliability and lower latency at no extra cost.
What is O2 5G+?
O2 5G+ is the operator’s next-generation 5G Standalone network. Unlike earlier versions of 5G, which relied on existing 4G technology, it uses new standalone infrastructure to deliver faster speeds, better reliability and lower latency mobile services. It is available to customers with compatible devices and plans at no extra cost.
Where can you get O2 5G+ in Bristol?
O2 5G+ is live across Bristol, with the rollout benefiting communities from the city centre and Harbourside to surrounding neighbourhoods and Avonmouth. All towns and cities included in Virgin Media O2’s 5G+ programme have at least 90% outdoor 5G+ coverage.
How much faster is it in practice?
The upgrade gives eligible customers faster speeds and lower latency, while reaching up to 495,000 people across Bristol. Every town and city in Virgin Media O2’s 5G+ rollout programme has at least 90% outdoor 5G+ coverage.
Virgin Media O2 was named Europe’s most improved mobile network by independent benchmarking firm Umlaut Connect in 2025 and won Best Mobile Network Coverage at the Uswitch Telecoms Awards for the second year running.
What does this mean for Bristol customers?
For Bristol customers, 5G+ means faster speeds, better reliability and lower latency at no extra cost, helping people stay connected in their everyday lives. Customers need a compatible device and plan and an up-to-date SIM; some may need to switch to a digital eSIM. Full details are available at https://www.o2.co.uk/5g-plus.
Professor Robert Joyce, Director of Mobile Access Engineering at O2: “Reliable connectivity is increasingly essential to how people live, work and do business, which is why we’re continuing to invest in strengthening our network in the city. This rollout is part of our £700 million Mobile Transformation Plan and brings 5G+ to more customers across Bristol. With faster speeds, lower latency and improved reliability, the upgrade will deliver high-quality coverage that helps our customers stay connected when it matters most.”
What’s next for O2 5G+ in Bristol?
Throughout 2026, Virgin Media O2’s £700 million Mobile Transformation Plan will continue to improve reliability, capacity and coverage across the UK through new masts, small cells, 4G and 5G upgrades, automation and new spectrum deployment.
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