UK Unveils £150M 5G & Future Telecoms Blitz
The UK is charging full steam ahead with a massive investment of nearly £150 million to revolutionise 5G and future telecoms. Technology Secretary Michelle Donelan revealed plans today to blanket the country in lightning-fast ‘5G-plus’ by 2030 and ramp up connectivity in even the remotest areas.
5G for All by 2030 – No One Left Offline
- £100 million to fuel cutting-edge 6G research and global standards influence
- £40 million innovation fund to supercharge 5G adoption in businesses and public services
- £8 million satellite broadband push to connect 35,000 remote homes and businesses
- New Wireless Infrastructure Strategy to slash deployment costs and boost mobile network rollouts
“Our Wireless Infrastructure Strategy will ensure everyone, no matter where they live, can enjoy the perks of improved connectivity,” Donelan stated. “By 2030 all populated UK areas will have ‘5G-plus’ tech. Plus, the £8m satellite initiative guarantees no community is left behind.”
Satellite Broadband to Save the Day for Remote Areas
Homes and businesses too far off the grid for fibre broadband will soon get broadband up to 10 times faster than before – thanks to satellite tech. This £8 million fund will boost digital inclusion across the UK’s most isolated spots.
Future-Proofing the UK as a Tech Superpower
The government’s 6G mission puts Britain on the frontline of next-gen digital innovation. With an initial £100 million investment, the UK aims to drive early-stage 6G research and shape international telecom standards, securing a global tech influence.
Donelan added, “This package turbocharges our progress toward becoming a science and tech superpower, ensuring 6G meets the needs of people and businesses across the UK.”
Faster Broadband Rollout & Spectrum Strategy
Working with local authorities and telcos, plans are in place to accelerate ultra-fast fibre deployment, including trials of flexible roadwork permits.
Plus, a new Spectrum Statement sets out government priorities for managing wireless frequencies vital to everything from mobile phones to defence, ensuring the UK’s economy and public services benefit from cutting-edge connectivity.
Currently, 77% of the UK population already has access to some form of 5G, with gigabit broadband coverage climbing from 6% in 2019 to a projected 75% this month. The bold goal? Nearly universal gigabit coverage by 2030.
