O2 has officially announced a significant free upgrade for millions of its customers, delivering accelerated 5G+ connectivity nationwide in the UK. The upgraded service offers improved mobile coverage and notably faster download speeds, boasting a 50% increase compared to the previous 4G network.
In addition to speed and reliability enhancements, users can expect extended battery life on their devices. With the elimination of dual connectivity to both 4G and 5G networks, devices consume less power. Unlike standard 5G, which relies on 4G support, the new 5G+ service does not require simultaneous connections.
The rollout of this upgrade is now underway for users with 5G+ compatible devices and SIM cards, covering over 700 towns and cities. Christian Hindennach, the Chief Commercial Officer at Virgin Media O2, emphasized the broad availability of the 5G+ service to all O2 customers, regardless of their plan, setting it apart from other networks.
Hindennach highlighted the performance boost in high-traffic areas and major venues, benefiting residents and visitors alike. This upgrade underscores Virgin Media O2’s ongoing commitment to network enhancement and ensuring a more dependable user experience, with a daily investment of £2 million to support customers in embracing upcoming mobile innovations.
To check local availability, users can utilize O2’s postcode checker on their website. Notable devices ready for 5G+ include the iPhone 15, 16 (including 16e), and 17 ranges, as well as the Google Pixel 9 series (including Fold) and Pixel 10 series (including Fold).
5G+ represents an upgraded iteration of 5G mobile networks, leveraging advanced technologies such as higher-frequency spectrum, enhanced antennas, and network optimization to deliver faster speeds, reduced latency, and increased capacity.