Virgin Media O2 has become the first UK telco to offer businesses a portable commercial 5G standalone (SA) private network (PN).
Once plugged in, the new portable network enables companies to immediately access 5G connectivity at the flick of a switch.
The company has deployed two 5G SA PN platforms as part of the network development. Telefónica’s innovation arm, Wayra – home to the first trial of the product – has been using the network since last summer, said VM O2.
Trials with companies offering products ranging from virtual reality (VR) applications to Internet of Things (IoT) services have already shown benefits including high reliability, enhanced data security, and ultra-low latency, added the company.
The technology uses Nokia Digital Automation Cloud (DAC) and Nokia MX Industrial Edge (MXIE), which allows organisations to support mission-critical applications. The integration makes Virgin Media O2 Business the UK’s first telco to incorporate MXIE into its private wireless offering.
Jo Bertram, managing director at Virgin Media O2 Business, said: “Moving beyond trials, Virgin Media O2 Business is now the UK’s first telco to offer a portable commercial 5G standalone private network. Britain is a hub for innovation, so it’s crucial that companies operating here can access the connectivity needed to create new experiences for customers.
“From start-ups to large enterprises, our latest network solution will enable 5G trials and deployment without the time or cost of building a whole network. Removing barriers, like location and cost, to ensure that businesses get the connection they need.”
