Vodafone claims first 5G Standalone
June 26, 2023
Vodafone claims to be first to offer 5G Standalone in the UK starting in London, Manchester, Glasgow and Cardiff. A 5G Standalone network, unlike previous 5G deployments, does not rely on 4G.
The operator claims this will bring 5G Standalone (which it calls 5G Ultra) coverage to another million people, improve phone battery life (by 25 per cent), and provide more reliable connections in busy locations, as well as faster 5G. It will kick-off in cities including London, Manchester, Glasgow and Cardiff.
5G Ultra will be available on Samsung Galaxy S21 and S22 devices, with more to follow in July as more devices become 5G Ultra-compatible. Wimbledon tennis will be one of the first major events at which customers can benefit from the new 5G Standalone connectivity. Masts in the area have been upgraded to deliver the new service, including ones which provide coverage to the tennis courts and the surrounding fan zones.