Mobile operator EE has begun its first trial of 5G technology at a busy site in Canary Wharf, London.
The trial in Montgomery Square will test 5G spectrum and devices for performance, speed and coverage.
A number of UK telcos have outlined plans to launch a 5G test network but this represents the first time a site has gone live for the general public.
“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,” said Fotis Karonis, 5G technology lead at BT Group.
“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.”
EE announced in June that it would be launching the 5G network, promising that it would be the UK’s first proper test.
The current network covers Montgomery Square in Canary Wharf and was selected by EE for its high footfall and data usage.
Mark Nallen, head of technology and innovation at 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.”