5G is now widely available across the UK, and you’ll even now find 5G+ in some surprisingly rural locations. Testament to that is the fact that O2 has announced it has switched 5G+ on in 368 towns and villages across Derbyshire, bringing improved connectivity to more than 380,000 people.
5G+ for those unaware is O2’s name for 5G Standalone – that being a 5G network that doesn’t rely on any 4G technology, allowing for higher speeds, better reliability, and lower latency than standard 5G.
A full list of the Derbyshire locations that will benefit from this hasn’t been provided, but it includes Derby, Chesterfield, Long Eaton, Ilkeston, Swadlincote, Heanor, Buxton, Dronfield, Belper, Ripley, Matlock, Disley, Brookfield, South Normanton, Shirebrook, Staveley, Bolsover, Somercotes, and Brimington alongside 349 other towns, villages, and hamlets. And there’s also Bakewell, which isn’t a new addition but last year became the 500th UK location to get 5G+ from O2.
All of these places should have at least 90% 5G+ outdoor coverage, so the upgraded technology should be widely available.
Professor Robert Joyce, Director of Mobile Access Engineering at O2, said: “From Bakewell becoming our 500th 5G+ location last year to supporting Derbyshire firefighters with O2 Satellite during a major wildfire earlier this year, we’re continuing to invest in better connectivity across the county.
“This latest rollout builds on our continued investment in Derbyshire, bringing faster speeds, improved reliability and lower latency to residents and businesses alike. Through our £700 million Mobile Transformation Plan, we’re pleased to bring the benefits of our next-generation network to more customers, helping them stay connected whenever they need to.”
No extra cost – but you might need a new SIM card
So this is a big benefit for residents and visitors, and 5G+ comes as standard on all O2 Pay Monthly plans, so you won’t have to pay any extra to get it. That said, you will need a compatible device along with O2’s latest R15 SIM card or an eSIM – so some customers may need a new SIM card.
But if you’re not on O2 you won’t necessarily miss out on 5G Standalone, as EE and Vodafone are also rapidly rolling out their own 5G Standalone networks.
O2 for its part though claimed that it had over 86% UK population coverage with 5G Standalone back in June, so that figure will be even higher now.
