Millions of mobile customers have received a free upgrade from EE as the UK telecommunications company expands its 5G+ technology across the country. The firm, owned by BT, announced that its enhanced 5G network now covers enough areas to serve 50 million residents, though EE does not have that many mobile subscribers.
What is 5G+?
5G+ is EE's branding for 5G standalone technology. Unlike standard 5G, which relies on older 4G infrastructure, 5G+ uses masts built solely on 5G. This results in more reliable mobile internet, faster download and upload speeds, and improved video call and gaming experiences, especially in busy locations and at peak times.
Compatible Devices and Plans
To use 5G+, customers need a compatible 5G smartphone. All iPhones from the iPhone 15 onwards work, as well as Samsung Galaxy phones from the S23 series (2023) and newer. Other devices like the Google Pixel 10 and Nothing Phone 3 are also supported. SIM-only customers must be on an EE All Rounder or Full Works plan, which are among EE's pricier tariffs. However, the upgrade is available at no extra cost to all EE pay monthly customers.
Network Improvements
Greg McCall, Chief Security and Networks Officer at BT Group, said: "This milestone shows the pace at which we're building the UK's most advanced mobile network. By expanding EE's 5G+ coverage to millions more people and being the first in the world to launch new network technologies, we're giving our customers more reliable and resilient connectivity in the places where it matters most."
EE claims that 5G+ customers are experiencing considerably faster download speeds. The company also launched five carrier aggregation on its 5G+ mobile sites, allowing compatible smartphones to combine five spectrum bands at once. This results in 10% faster average download speeds and improved performance when streaming video.
Market Share and Expansion
According to Analysys Mason, EE holds about 20% of the UK mobile market. The 5G+ network has recently expanded to towns and cities including Aberystwyth, Antrim, Bangor, Barnsley, Cheltenham, Chichester, Cirencester, Dorchester, Erskine, Melton Mowbray, Merthyr Tydfil, Newbury, Preston, Salford, and St Austell.
