O2 completes work to improve its mobile network in Glasgow

• In the last 12 months, O2 has boosted 4G and 5G network capacity in over 3,000 postcodes in Glasgow
• These upgrades mean that customers in Glasgow will have access to faster and more reliable mobile connectivity than ever before, making it easier to use online services, work, play and stay connected with friends and family
• O2’s Mobile Transformation Plan will see the operator invest around £700m into its mobile network this year to ensure it is fit for the future and can keep up with increasing customer demand

O2 is announcing a significant upgrade to its mobile network in Glasgow, after completing work to boost signal and services in over 3,000 postcodes in the last 12 months.

The operator’s substantial investment to upgrade connectivity in Glasgow is already providing residents and businesses with access to faster and more reliable mobile services, making it easier to access essential online services, work remotely, stream content on the go or simply stay connected with friends and family.

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.

At the same time, Virgin Media O2 is also carrying out major programmes to evolve its mobile network for the future, which will mean decommissioning outdated parts of the network, including the 3G network. This will enable the operator to move traffic on to the more energy- efficient and reliable 4G and 5G networks.

This significant investment programme comes in response to mobile network demand reaching an all-time high, with traffic more than doubling in the last five years.

Dr Robert Joyce, Director of Mobile Access Engineering, at O2 said: “With customers using more data than ever before, the improvements we’ve made at over 3,000 postcodes in Glasgow will ensure local people and businesses can access reliable connectivity that is so essential in powering our customers’ digital lifestyles. As part of our Mobile Transformation Plan, we are continuing to invest in our network with future upgrades planned to ensure that we can continue to support our customers both now and in future.”

Councillor Paul Leinster, Chair of the Digital Glasgow Board, at Glasgow City Council said: “Glasgow City Council is delighted to work with O2 on their mobile upgrades in the City.  Reliable and fast mobile networks are no longer a luxury, but a fundamental necessity for the residents and businesses of Glasgow. From staying connected with loved ones, to accessing vital public services, and powering our local economy, good mobile coverage is essential to ensure that no Glaswegian is left behind.”

O2 is the only mobile network operator not to have reintroduced roaming fees in Europe and customers can save week-in week-out through Priority – its reward scheme which gives exclusive access to offers, prize draws, competitions, and presale tickets.

Four years ago, Virgin Media and O2 came together to supercharge the UK. Now, customers of both can supercharge their services and reap extra rewards through Volt. Alongside double mobile data, roaming in 75 countries, new and existing customers who take a Virgin Media broadband service and an eligible O2 Pay Monthly plan will receive a broadband speed boost to the next tier available – meaning customers on a 500Mbps Virgin Media package could be boosted to Gig1 at no extra charge.