BT's EE outlines plan to expand 5G Standalone coverage to 99% of UK population by 2030

BT's mobile brand EE has set a target to extend its 5G Standalone (SA) network coverage to 99% of the UK population by the end of fiscal year 2030, aiming to do so ahead of other UK mobile providers' projected timelines.

This ambition aligns with the growing demand for consistent mobile connectivity, with EE describing the enhancement of network capacity and reliability as central to addressing the volume of connected devices and usage at public venues and cities.

EE has initiated deployment of new network hardware, including Ericsson’s Adaptive Incident Response (AIR) 3284 units, noted as the world's first triple-band FDD Massive Multiple-Input Multiple-Output (MIMO) radios. These radios are designed to provide up to four times the uplink capacity and maximize network performance. Additional technologies introduced include a growing number of outdoor small cells (over 1,500 nationwide), some newly installed in various towns and cities, and Advanced Radio Access Network (RAN) Coordination, implemented to allow mobile sites in proximity to share capacity remotely.

The network enhancements are collectively labeled as “5G+” to simplify the terminology for users compared to the technical designation 5G SA. The planned work involves scaling these advanced technologies across EE’s mobile infrastructure, with two AIR 3284 units currently active in Leeds and hundreds more expected to be operational by 2030.

EE highlighted the importance of government participation in supporting this expansion through measures such as planning reforms, increased spectrum availability, and potential elimination of spectrum licence fees. It also noted that while 99% 5G+ coverage represents a milestone, targeted solutions may remain necessary for connectivity challenges in specific areas like railways.

“From airports to Wembley Stadium, growing demand at major hotspots highlights why reliable connectivity isn’t just nice to have - it’s essential,” EE said. The company referenced a report estimating that continued improvements in mobile network quality could enable up to £230 billion in economic growth for the UK. BT stated that its mission is to act as the UK’s trusted mobile connector by expanding 5G+ coverage and deploying advanced network capabilities.