Virgin Media O2 has significantly enhanced its mobile network throughout Scotland. Over the past year, over 13,000 postcodes have seen improvements in their 4G and 5G services. This move includes upgrades at popular tourist spots, with Edinburgh alone seeing advancements in 782 postcodes, and the Highlands experiencing notably better coverage.
This initiative is part of the operator’s ambitious £700 million plan to modernize its infrastructure by 2025. With data traffic doubling, this investment aims to future-proof Virgin Media O2’s network capabilities. The enhancements are not just restricted to coverage areas but also emphasize expanding and densifying 4G and 5G networks. Special focus areas include urban zones, railways, airports, and stadiums, utilizing small-cell technology to improve connectivity.
Robert Joyce, O2’s director of mobile access engineering, expressed pride in the network’s evolution in Scotland. He noted Scotland’s natural beauty and remoteness, emphasizing that improved connectivity now means better access during critical times.
Enhancing its spectrum portfolio, Virgin Media O2 has entered into a spectrum transfer deal with Vodafone UK. The agreement involves Virgin Media O2 acquiring 78.8 megahertz for £343 million. This includes additions in the 1400 MHz, 2.1 GHz, 2.6 GHz, and 3.4 GHz bands. These developments come on the heels of Vodafone UK’s merger with Three UK.
In a bid to lead in network technology, Virgin Media O2 activated its standalone 5G network in February for business users, reaching 500 towns and cities. The rollout supports modern applications like autonomous transport and remote healthcare, and includes capabilities like network slicing for specialized connectivity like augmented reality and robotics.
Virgin Media O2 officially launched its 5G standalone network in 2024. The launch covered major cities including London, Manchester, and Glasgow. Now, the network delivers 5G coverage to over 75% of the UK population.