I’m thrilled to sit down with Vladislav Zaimov, a seasoned telecommunications specialist with deep expertise in enterprise telecommunications and risk management of vulnerable networks. Today, we’re diving into the exciting world of 5G technology, focusing on Virgin Media O2’s groundbreaking 5G Standalone (SA) expansion across the UK. We’ll explore the scale and impact of this rollout, the innovative features that set their network apart, and the future possibilities this technology unlocks for industries and consumers alike. Let’s get started!
How did Virgin Media O2 achieve such rapid 5G Standalone coverage, reaching 70% of the UK population so quickly?
The speed of this rollout is a result of meticulous planning and significant investment. Virgin Media O2 prioritized a strategic deployment, focusing on high-density population areas first while leveraging existing infrastructure. By upgrading sites and integrating a cloud-based 5G core, we’ve been able to scale efficiently. It’s also about partnerships and innovative solutions like small cell deployments in busy urban zones, which helped us hit that 70% mark—covering around 49 million people—faster than anticipated.
What does expanding to 500 towns and cities mean for the everyday experience of customers in those areas?
It’s a game-changer for connectivity. Reaching 500 locations means that millions more people now have access to faster, more reliable mobile data, whether they’re streaming, working remotely, or gaming on the go. With at least 90% outdoor coverage in these areas, customers can expect consistent performance in most public spaces, reducing frustrating drop-offs and enhancing everything from video calls to navigation apps. It’s about making sure technology keeps up with how people live today.
What sets Virgin Media O2’s 5G SA network apart from other carriers in the UK market?
Our network stands out due to its sheer scale and forward-thinking design. We’ve got the largest 5G SA footprint in the country, covering over 70% of the population, which no other carrier matches right now. Beyond that, our cloud-based 5G core allows for greater flexibility and scalability compared to traditional setups. This design not only boosts speed and lowers latency but also positions us to roll out advanced features like network slicing, giving us a real edge in delivering tailored connectivity solutions.
Can you paint a picture of how this network might support futuristic applications like autonomous transport?
Absolutely. Autonomous transport relies on ultra-low latency and high reliability—exactly what 5G SA delivers. Imagine self-driving cars communicating with each other and traffic systems in real-time to avoid collisions or optimize routes. Our network can handle the massive data exchanges needed for that, ensuring split-second decisions are made without hiccups. It’s not just about cars; drones and other automated systems could also benefit, transforming how goods and people move in urban areas.
How could digital health or remote healthcare be transformed by this 5G SA technology?
Digital health is one of the most exciting areas. With 5G SA, we can support real-time remote surgeries where a doctor operates robotic tools from miles away, thanks to the network’s low latency and high bandwidth. It also enables wearable devices to transmit patient data instantly to healthcare providers, allowing for quicker diagnoses or emergency responses. For rural areas especially, this could mean access to top-tier medical consultations without traveling, bridging a huge gap in care.
Let’s dive into network slicing. Can you explain what it is and why it matters to customers?
Network slicing is like creating virtual lanes on a highway, each dedicated to a specific type of traffic. With 5G SA, we can carve out portions of the network for particular uses or customers, ensuring they get the exact speed, bandwidth, or latency they need. For everyday users, it means a smoother experience during peak times—no more lag during a big sports stream. For businesses, it’s a way to guarantee performance for critical applications, whether that’s a hospital or a gaming company.
How is the £700 million investment being utilized to enhance the network beyond just 5G expansion?
This investment is a cornerstone of our broader mobile transformation plan. While a significant chunk goes into 5G SA rollout, we’re also bolstering 4G coverage for areas not yet on 5G, deploying small cells in high-traffic urban spots like central Birmingham, and tackling network bottlenecks where demand spikes. We’re also investing in spectrum acquisition to boost capacity. It’s a holistic approach—every pound spent aims to improve reliability and prepare for future data demands across all network layers.
What’s your forecast for the future of 5G technology and its impact on industries over the next decade?
I see 5G, especially SA, becoming the backbone of a fully connected world within the next ten years. Industries like manufacturing will lean heavily on automation and robotics powered by 5G’s low latency, while sectors like entertainment will push boundaries with immersive augmented and virtual reality experiences. We’ll also see smart cities evolve, with everything from traffic to energy grids optimized in real-time. The challenge will be ensuring security and accessibility as adoption grows, but the potential to revolutionize how we live and work is limitless.
