EE aims for widespread 5G Standalone coverage in the UK

EE outlined its plan to provide 5G Standalone (SA) connectivity to 99% of the UK population by the end of fiscal year 2030, exceeding projections from competitors. The initiative is set to enhance mobile internet capacity and reliability across the country.

To support this ambition, EE launched new Massive Multiple-Input Multiple-Output (MIMO) units alongside boosting its outdoor small cell network, which now comprises over 1,500 small cells. These units aim to improve mobile connectivity, especially in busy areas.

EE's rollout includes the incorporation of Advanced Radio Access Network (RAN) Coordination, which enables mobile sites to share capacity, thereby optimizing performance. The company emphasized the potential economic benefits of improved mobile connectivity, estimating that upgrades could yield up to £230 billion in economic growth for the UK and urged government support to enhance mobile infrastructure further.