Virgin Media-O2 merger executive line-up unveiled
The line-up has been unveiled as the CMA conducts its regulatory review ahead of expected merger
Operators
April 29, 2021
Agreement paves the way for faster 5G rollout
O2 and Vodafone have today announced a new deal that will see the operators’ trade bands to create more efficient blocks of 5G spectrum.
The telecoms providers already share mast infrastructure and this new deal will enable improved coverage for customers both indoors and outdoors across urban, suburban and rural areas.
The move is subject to approval from Ofcom and will see a contiguous block of 80Mhz for O2 and ensure good proximity of Vodafone’s blocks totalling 90MHz of spectrum.
The contiguous blocks support faster speeds, lower latency and greener 5G services.
O2 CEO Mark Evans said: “This year O2 is investing more than ever in its network to improve coverage and experience. Securing contiguous blocks of spectrum is crucial to harnessing the true power of 5G – we will have the strongest indoor and outdoor connectivity and an ultra-reliable frequency.
“O2 is a champion for coverage and reliability and remains committed to responsibly and securely improving the network experience for all our customers across the UK. This deal with Vodafone is further evidence of our commitment to customers and we’re hugely excited about the possibilities of our 5G network.”
Vodafone UK CEO Ahmed Essam added: “Over the last year Vodafone has kept the UK connected. We have invested in our network to deliver brilliant coverage for both calls and data, where and when our customers need it.
“And we have connected those most in need, from NHS and care workers to children needing to get online to continue their learning at home, and job seekers who have been left without work due to the pandemic.
“The result of this auction and our agreement with O2 will help us continue our mission of connecting our customers for a better future. It means we have the best possible spectrum to continue giving our customers a fast and reliable 5G service.
“It will also enable us to open up amazing new possibilities for our enterprise customers, putting Britain at the forefront of innovation in vital areas like assisted surgery, remote training, and factory automation.”