EE 5G Plus launch boosts network speeds for areas covering 50 million people

The UK mobile carrier, EE, has announced a “huge boost” for millions of customers who will now experience greater connectivity thanks to the launch of 5G Plus. The firm said it will be available to more than 50 million people and see the rollout of “world-first technologies” to enhance network performance across the UK.

The company has been expanding its 5G Plus connectivity since the start of the year across 610 towns and cities and covering 50 million people. This is above the original target to reach 41 million people by spring. 5G Plus is a more powerful form of 5G connectivity that delivers more reliable mobile internet, faster download and upload speeds, and improved video call and gaming experiences at peak times. It said it wants to reach 99% of the population by the end of the decade.

To deliver this upgraded connectivity, EE reallocated its 2.1GHz spectrum across 4,000 mobile sites to increase capacity, deliver stronger indoor coverage, and improve upload speeds for 5G customers. The benefits will be most seen in built-up areas where demand is higher. The company plans to upgrade a further 5,000 more mobile sites like this in the coming months.

Following the launch of Advanced RAN Coordination (ARC) in Manchester and Edinburgh last year, the company has now decided to bring it to its 5G Plus network in London. By the end of next month, it will also be available in Belfast, Cardiff, Glasgow, Leeds, Liverpool, Newcastle, and Sheffield.

EE said that it is the first network in the world to deploy ARC technology. It allows mobile sites close to each other to dynamically share capacity in real time, boosting network performance by a fifth, without the need for additional masts.

Looking at EE’s pay monthly offers, it looks as though 5G Plus is currently only available for its higher-priced plans as it looks to recuperate costs. To see what’s available, check the deals page and the bullet point description for 5G Plus.