EE has expanded its 5G network to a further 12 cities in the UK ahead of the planned launch of the first compatible iPhone later today. The BT-owned operator was the first to launch 5G in the UK last summer and has the fastest speeds and highest availability of any next-generation network in the UK, according to independent tests. . The rollout has been a gradual process with new locations being added gradually. This latest installment of updates brought sites in Aberdeen, Blackpool and Oxford up to date and brings the total number of sites added to the EE 5G network since May to 32.
EE 5G expansion
Overall, the service is available in 112 cities and EE is also doubling the number of locations in major cities like Belfast, Birmingham, Cardiff and Edinburgh. “Our 5G rollout continues at a rapid pace, with our engineers building and improving new sites every day to bring the latest mobile technologies to more people where they need them,” said Marc Allera, CEO of EE. “We have 5G coverage in more places than anyone else in the UK, and we remain focused on connecting many more areas this year and beyond." EE expects the launch of the iPhone 12 to boost demand for 5G. New customers may be drawn to EE's head start, and existing subscribers may be able to purchase a more data-intensive package. Several flagships are already connecting to 5G, but Apple's huge share of the premium segment of the UK market means it's incredibly influential. In time, more affordable 5G phones will also be a factor. Across Europe, 60% of all phones sold next year are expected to be able to use 5G services.