Nokia has secured a major multi-year 5G Radio Access Network (RAN) deployment and modernization contract with Virgin Media O2.
The agreement with Finland-based Nokia marks a significant step in Virgin Media O2’s Mobile Transformation Plan, aimed at delivering one of the most reliable and high-performance 5G networks in the country. Nokia did not reveal financial details of the 5G network deal.
As part of the deal, Nokia will deploy its latest AirScale RAN portfolio, including ultra-capacity modular baseband solutions and energy-efficient Massive MIMO radios. These technologies are designed to enhance spectral efficiency, boost network capacity, and improve overall throughput, ensuring superior 5G performance while preparing the network for future 5G-Advanced evolution.
Virgin Media O2 is leveraging Nokia’s advanced GigaSite architecture, Dual-Band Massive MIMO, and AI-enabled baseband platforms to accelerate network modernization. These innovations will support better spectrum utilization, improved coverage, and enhanced operational efficiency. The integration of energy-saving software features also aligns with the operator’s focus on sustainable and cost-efficient network expansion.
The deployment is expected to significantly improve network quality and reliability for customers across the UK, while enabling seamless scalability as data demand continues to surge. The companies will also collaborate on joint innovation initiatives, including pilots and proofs of concept focused on advanced RAN intelligence, automation, and energy-efficient network architectures.
Virgin Media O2 has already demonstrated strong momentum in its network expansion strategy. By the end of 2025, the operator increased its 5G outdoor population coverage to 87 percent, marking a 12 percentage point rise خلال the year. Its full fibre footprint reached 8.3 million premises, while the total gigabit-capable network expanded to 18.8 million premises. Investment remains central to its growth, with capital expenditure additions totaling £2,089.2 million in 2025.
The company’s performance has also been recognized by industry benchmarks, with Opensignal naming it the UK’s top broadband provider and Umlaut Connect identifying O2 as the most improved mobile network across Europe. These achievements highlight the effectiveness of its ongoing investments in both fixed and mobile infrastructure.
With this latest agreement, Nokia and Virgin Media O2 are set to accelerate the rollout of advanced 5G capabilities, improve service quality, and meet rising demand for high-speed connectivity. The tech contract reflects the growing importance of AI-driven, energy-efficient RAN technologies in shaping the next phase of digital transformation across the UK telecom sector.
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