EE to launch 5G connectivity across 16 UK cities

(PA)

EE is to launch 5G mobile connectivity in 16 UK cities in 2019, the telecoms firm has said.

The firm is currently running two trials of 5G connectivity in Canary Wharf and east London to test the real-world use of the new, faster networks.

The company, which is part of the BT Group, will roll out the new network within the following cities:

  • London

  • Cardiff

  • Edinburgh

  • Belfast

  • Birmingham

  • Manchester

  • Glasgow

  • Newcastle

  • Liverpool

  • Leeds

  • Hull

  • Sheffield

  • Nottingham

  • Leicester

  • Coventry

  • Bristol

The next generation of wireless mobile connections, 5G is expected to offer significant speed increases on 4G.

EE said it would introduce the network to a total of 1,500 sites during 2019. Credit: PA

Chief executive of BT’s consumer division Marc Allera said: "Adding 5G to the UK’s number one 4G network will increase reliability, increase speeds, and keep our customers connected where they need it most.

"This is another milestone for the UK and for our network journey – we’ll keep evolving as we move to one, smart network for our customers.

"We have an ambition to connect our customers to 4G, 5G or WiFi 100% of the time."

As part of the company’s planned rollout of 5G, EE said it will also launch a 5G home router as an alternative to fixed broadband, and will be launching "multiple" 5G smartphones in partnership with manufacturers, it said.

Commenting on the news, Mayor of London Sadiq Khan said: "I want London to be the world’s leading smart city and 5G expansion is at that heart of this ambition - it is good news for Londoners, innovation, and business.

"At City Hall we are working hard right across the capital to ensure we have the network infrastructure needed through our new Connected London programme.

"EE’s ambitious investment in 5G sites demonstrates that our city is a great place to invest in innovative and future-facing digital connectivity."