O2 brings faster, more reliable 5G to Essex

• O2 has switched on its next-generation 5G Standalone network in Essex as part of its UK-wide rollout which is now live in more than 500 locations
• The investment is part of the operator’s £700 million Mobile Transformation Programme to boost connectivity and reliability across the UK
• Residents and businesses in Essex can now enjoy faster speeds, improved coverage and reduced latency – with at least 90% outdoor 5G Standalone coverage in the towns where the network is live

Essex, 10 December – People and businesses across Essex, including Colchester, Chelmsford, Loughton and Billericay, are now set to benefit from O2’s most advanced mobile network yet, as the company switches on its next-generation 5G Standalone service locally.

With a population of around 1.5 million across Essex, residents will be able to benefit from the new 5G network, which offers reliable, faster mobile coverage and stronger signal in more places, meaning a smoother experience for residents, commuters and visitors.

O2’s 5G Standalone network is the UK’s largest and is available to customers with compatible devices at no extra cost.

Future-proofing Essex in a boost for local people and businesses

In each town where the new 5G Standalone network is live, residents will benefit from at least 90% outdoor coverage. The rollout is expected to benefit local residents and businesses alike. From remote working and video calls to streaming and online learning, the upgraded network will make it easier for people to stay connected wherever they are.

Unlike earlier versions of 5G that relied on 4G technology, O2’s 5G Standalone service is built entirely on new infrastructure. This investment will improve services today and prepare the region for future technologies like smart transport, connected healthcare, and advanced manufacturing.

Professor Robert Joyce, Director of Mobile Access Engineering at O2, said: “As part of our Mobile Transformation Plan, we are investing £2m every single day to improve our mobile network and provide a more reliable experience for our customers. By expanding our next-generation 5G Standalone network to Essex we are upgrading services for local people and are excited about the opportunities the new network will bring.”

Cllr Louise McKinlay, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Communities, Economic Growth and Prosperity at Essex County Council said: “Whether it’s staying in touch with loved ones, accessing public services, or powering the local economy, reliable connectivity is absolutely essential to modern life. The rollout of O2’s next-generation 5G network in Essex is a significant step forward in enabling our residents and businesses to thrive in today’s digital world. This investment will help drive economic growth and create new opportunities for communities across Greater Essex.”

These upgrades are part of Virgin Media O2’s Mobile Transformation Plan, which will see the operator invest approximately £700m this year to future-proof its mobile network. The plan is focused on expanding 4G and 5G coverage, a dedicated small cells rollout to boost capacity in dense urban areas, and innovative solutions to address persistent network pain points including along railway lines, at airports, on motorways, and in stadiums and arenas.

Ends

Notes to editors

All 500 towns and cities included in Virgin Media O2’s 5GSA programme rollout have at least 90% 5G standalone outdoor coverage.

In the Essex region, this includes the following locations: Basildon, Billericay, Braintree, Canvey Island, Chadwell St Mary, Chelmsford, Clacton-on-Sea, Colchester, Frinton-on-Sea, Grays, Halstead, Harlow, Loughton, Maldon, Rayleigh, Rochford, Saffron Walden, Shenfield, South Benfleet, South Ockendon, Southend-on-Sea, South Woodham Ferrers, Thundersley, Waltham Abbey, Waltham Cross, Wickford, and Witham.

Local population statistics are according to the latest data held by the ONS for Essex here.