EE has switched on the first of its 5G trial sites, using the technology to boost network capacity at the Canary Wharf financial district in London.
The trial will be using 5G New Radio technology on the 3.4GHz band. EE bought the high capacity spectrum from UK regulator Ofcom earlier this year.
The operator said it wanted to start deploying 5G hotspots across the country to boost its network in areas of high population density. An estimated 150,000 people travel through Canary Wharf each day and it is home to 1,250 start-ups.
A further 10 sites will be switched on in east London later this month, making good on plans it first announced in June.
Fotis Karonis, 5G Technology Lead at BT Group, said: “This is the latest milestone in our 5G rollout – a live test of our 5G network, in a hugely busy ‘hotspot’, where we know there’s going to be demand from customers for increased mobile capacity.
“With constant upgrades to 4G, and laying the foundations for 5G, we’re working to always be able to deliver what our customers need – both consumers and the vertical industries that will make the greatest use of 5G.”
Mark Nallen, Head of Technology and Innovation, Canary Wharf Group, added: “Staying at the forefront of connectivity and new technologies is critical to our community, and that’s why we’re partnering with BT Group to support delivery of 5G.
“The consumers who live and work here will benefit from being better connected, and the enterprises based here will have the chance to partner with BT Group to understand the full capabilities of 5G.”