O2 is finally catching up with its rivals. The UK network has today confirmed plans to flip the switch on its 5G signal.
The firm is far from the first to make the move, with EE, Vodafone and Three Mobile already giving users this giant speed update.
This upgrade will not only help boost download speeds, but also bring a much more reliable connection, especially in busy areas, like train stations at rush hour or stadiums during a gig, or sport fixture.
Customers who want to take advantage of 5G will be able to choose from a number of tariffs, including an unlimited data option. These will all be the same price as the 4G equivalent.
At launch, O2 says its new speedy network will be available in six locations across the UK which include Belfast, Cardiff, Edinburgh, London, Slough and Leeds. This will then be followed by a total of 20 towns and cities by the end of the year, and 50 by summer 2020.
Those visiting Twickenham and the Emirates Stadium will also be able to enjoy this latest technology which is capable of beaming files to your phone at over 300Mbps – that’s around six times faster than current speeds.
Speaking about the 5G launch, Telefónica UK CEO Mark Evans said: “Today is a significant moment for our customers and our business as we switch on the O2 5G network.
“We’re launching with a range of tariffs that make it easy and fair for customers to access 5G, with flexible plans that cost no more than 4G. We’re also switching on 5G in important parts of towns and cities first, places where it will benefit customers and businesses most.
“I believe 5G is going to revolutionise the way people and businesses use mobile connectivity, unlocking huge possibilities for our economy and society. No one in the country has all the answers today, but I’m excited about getting it into the hands of our customers and working with leading partners to help shape the future of 5G for the next generation.”
Sadly, if you were hoping to see 5G data arriving on your current device you might be left a little disappointed. To access this upgrade you’ll need a compatible phone.
O2 is currently offering four devices to customers which include the Samsung Galaxy S10 5G; Samsung Galaxy Note10+ 5G; Samsung Galaxy A90 (5G); and the Xiaomi Mi MIX 3 5G.
HOW MUCH FASTER WILL IT ACTUALLY BE?
Depending on where you are in the country it’s possible to get an average 4G speed of around 30-50Mbps. That’s as fast as most fixed-line broadband and would allow you to download an HD movie in around 15-20 minutes.
If you are very lucky, it is possible to get 4G speeds of around 400Mbps although this isn’t something many consumers will have ever experienced.
5G takes things to a new level with average speeds expected to exceed 100Mbps.
It’s also very likely that some users will experience speeds nearing 1Gbps with an HD movie downloading in under 40 seconds.
On a recent test, Express.co.uk managed to see speeds of over 300Mbps.