VIRGIN Media O2 has come up with a new way to accelerate its 5G roll out across the UK.
One of the issues network providers say hold up their ability to expand fast 5G is planning permission.
This includes installing radio equipment, connecting sites to the power network, before establishing fibre connections to carry mobile traffic to the internet.
But Virgin Media O2 has found a clever way to get around all that so it can introduce 5G to more areas quicker.
It's cheaper too which may stem future price increases for customers after recent bill hikes were announced.
Virgin announces huge change affecting millions of mobile customers
Instead, the firm has started installing mini smart poles next to their existing fibre broadband cabinets.
These can be installed in less than a day and house small cell technology which can boost mobile coverage in busy areas, Virgin Media O2 claims.
And the electricity is supplied by Virgin Media’s fibre network rather than a traditional power supply in a "UK first".
The company has around 25,000 cabinets already in place on streets meaning a rapid 5G boost could be on the horizon following the trial.
"As we continue investing to upgrade and expand our network, we’re always looking for new ways to work smarter and deliver more for our customers," said Jeanie York, Chief Technology Officer at Virgin Media O2.
"Groundbreaking trials like this can help boost mobile coverage and bring next generation services to even more customers.
"The ability to use our existing national fixed network to backhaul and power small cells could be transformational - helping us save time and money, open up new revenue streams, support smart city technology and fully leverage the benefits of our scaled converged network."
Free streaming from Virgin Media O2
Virgin Media O2 customers can currently get free access to Apple TV+ via the Priority app.
The offer is available to new Apple TV+ customers who haven't already it free previously.
Just open the Priority app and search Apple TV+ to redeem the offer.
All Brits set to have access to 5G internet by 2030 amid £40m funding boost
