UK mobile operator EE has announced an ambitious expansion of its 5G Standalone (5G SA) network, aiming to significantly enhance the mobile experience for its customers. By the end of March 2025, EE's 5G SA network will be available in 50 major towns and cities, reaching over 28 million people and covering more than 40% of the UK population.
This new expansion will introduce 5G SA capabilities to locations including Altrincham, Blackburn, Bridgend, Caerphilly, Corby, Cwmbran, Doncaster, Exeter, Huddersfield, Hyde, Middlesbrough, Milton Keynes, Port Talbot, Rotherham, Sale, Sunderland, Wakefield, Walkden, and Wilmslow. These locations will benefit from the enhanced speed and reliability that 5G SA technology offers.
Launched in September 2024, EE's 5G SA platform is built on a dedicated 5G core architecture, providing customers with improved performance and functionalities that traditional Non-Standalone (NSA) networks, which rely on older 4G technology, cannot offer. EE has already reported that with 5G SA, customers can expect faster download and upload speeds, smoother video calling, and a better experience for streamers and online gamers.
Malcolm Cubitt, Director of Mobile at EE, stated, “5G standalone is giving many customers a better and more reliable mobile experience, especially in busy locations. As we rapidly expand our network footprint to cover more than 40 percent of the UK population, we are widening its accessibility so more people can benefit – especially those looking to harness the power of cutting-edge features on the newest smartphones.”
The 5G SA network upgrade is particularly beneficial for customers utilizing newer smartphone models. However, it is worth noting that not all devices will be compatible with this state-of-the-art network; popular models like the iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Pro won’t be able to take advantage of the enhanced features. EE is making 5G SA accessible at no extra cost to all new and upgrading customers taking any EE handset plan.
In addition, the recent upgrade promises significant advantages for applications powered by artificial intelligence, enhancing experiences with AI tools such as Apple Intelligence, Galaxy AI from Samsung, and Google's Gemini AI. “Last year, we predicted that 5G standalone networks would get a boost as AI-powered services became more popular. With so many more compatible smartphones now available, it’s great to see enhanced 5G network technology being deployed to millions more people across the UK,” added Ben Wood, Chief Analyst at CCS Insight.
As EE continues to enhance its 5G infrastructure, the telecommunications landscape in the UK is becoming increasingly competitive. EE's commitment to expanding its 5G SA offerings positions it well against rivals, especially after the successful deployment of the 5G SA network at Wembley Stadium last month, marking a significant step for network providers in embracing dedicated infrastructure in high-demand environments.
While challenges over device compatibility remain, the trend towards broader 5G SA adoption appears inevitable as subscribers cycle through upgrades to their existing handsets. This network evolution not only signifies a technological leap for EE but also heightens consumer expectations of mobile connectivity.
In summation, the rollout of EE's 5G SA network is set to transform mobile experiences for millions in the UK, promoting faster, more reliable internet access and paving the way for exciting AI applications. As the competition heats up, consumers stand to benefit from the advancements in mobile network technology, firmly placing EE at the forefront of this race.
