Virgin to enter UK 5G fray but regulator delays 5G spectrum auction
UK operator marks ‘milestone’ moment in its history with 5G offer to add to gigabit broadband, but Ofcom puts on hold the process to gain mid-band frequencies
Share this item with your network: By Published: 26 Jan 2021 9:31
In a day of swings and roundabouts for the UK’s 5G arena, communications provider Virgin Media revealed that 5G services are now available in 100 towns and cities across the country, but the edge was taken off by comms regulator Ofcom announcing that it is delaying the long-awaited auction of the 700MHz and 3.6-3.8GHz spectrum bands that will support next-generation network services.
| 26 January 2021
Virgin Media has launched its 5G mobile service in 100 towns and cities across the UK, using Vodafone’s network to connect customers.
Existing customers will be able to access 5G at no extra cost, with average speeds of 176.62Mbps, while new 5G plans include the Samsung Galaxy S21 with unlimited data for £42 per month. Broadband customers will be able to choose a 5G plan if taking one of the provider’s Oomph bundles, which offer broadband, TV and mobile connectivity all in one place.
Jeff Dodds, chief operating officer at Virgin Media, said: “The launch of 5G is a milestone moment for us. As the world’s first virtual mobile operator, our offering has long been about breaking boundaries and offering our customers a premium service without the price tag. That’s why we’re launching fast, reliable 5G connectivity at no extra cost while keeping the added extras of our existing mobile plans in place.