INDUSTRY News
Andres Cruz Gordon, Private Networks Director at Virgin Media O2 Business, said: “Building on Virgin Media O2 Business’ expertise in deploying Private Networks, this new project with River Severn Partnership Advanced Wireless Innovation Region is a great opportunity to demonstrate the possibilities that advanced connectivity can unlock. From AI-enabled insect traps to weather stations powered by sophisticated weather models, the applications tapped into at the farm will increase both safety and efficiency on site. This work will serve as an industry showcase of how 5G can accelerate digital farming plans and benefit the UK economy.”
support and a high-profile Mobile Network Operator in Virgin Media O2 Business who have an appetite to transform rural connectivity. Our collaboration marks an exciting step forward in demonstrating the practical benefits of 5G technology for rural communities.”
This work underscores Virgin Media O2 Business’ leadership in deploying 5G Private Networks. Last year, the company announced a strategic partnership with Accenture to expand its private 5G network solutions across a range of industries, including agriculture. The UK’s growing mobile Private Network market is estimated to reach £528M by 2030, with potential to generate further value through industry-focused applications supported by this connectivity. Matt Smith, RSPAWIR Programme Manager, said: “This project brings together a forward thinking, environmentally conscious and tech- curious local farm, an innovative public sector partnership with government
2025 sees Virgin Media O2 complete major steps to evolve its mobile network
n Dense urban areas: Continuing to deploy small cells in cities across the UK, to boost capacity in some of the most high-demand locations n Hard to reach remote locations: Tackling long term not-spots with innovative solutions such as satellite backhaul to connect some of the most difficult to reach areas of the UK n Stadiums and Venues: Deploying Distributed Antenna Systems (DAS) and dedicated networks to ensure uninterrupted connectivity for attendees at live events, which rank in the top 10 for the general public when it comes to desire for unfaltering connectivity Jeanie York, Chief Technology Officer, Virgin Media O2 said “Virgin Media O2 is committed to providing our customers with a reliable connectivity experience wherever they are. Our Mobile Transformation Plan combines the necessary financial investment with the latest technological innovation to make this a reality.” “We’re not just upgrading infrastructure; we’re creating a platform for future innovation. This programme ensures our customers will continue to benefit from
superior reliability as new technologies and demands emerge.” The programme forms part of Virgin Media O2’s wider £2bn investment this year in its fixed and mobile networks and services to provide customers across the UK with the best experience possible.
Virgin Media O2 is to carry out major programmes to evolve its mobile network to be fit for the future, including deploying additional spectrum, harnessing artificial intelligence, and decommissioning outdated parts of the network, including the 3G network. Decommissioning this legacy network will allow Virgin Media O2 to focus investment into more energy efficient and higher capacity future networks, and harnessing AI will enable the operator to unlock efficiencies that will be reinvested to improve the network experience. Virgin Media O2’s Mobile Transformation Plan will focus investment into parts of the network that experience the highest levels of demand and areas where connectivity is most critical. Priority areas where the operator is looking to deliver significant improvements include: n Railways: Enhancing connectivity for VMO2’s customers at stations and on trains, which poll as one of the top three locations where the public want to see improved connectivity n Roads: Strengthening coverage along motorways and major routes, ensuring consistent service for the two thirds of Brits who rely on connectivity for GPS maps when driving
Jeanie York, CTO Virgin Media 02
May 2025 Volume 47 No.2
27
Made with FlippingBook - Online magazine maker