Alaska-based telco GCI has expanded its 5G mobile network across the state.

GCI, which first launched its 5G network in 2020, has now expanded its 5G coverage across Alaska to 83 percent of the population.

In total, 125 communities across Alaska are covered by the 5G upgrades.

This year, the company has completed upgrades in more than 100 communities across Alaska, in towns including Noorvik in Northwest Alaska, Tanana in the Interior, Port Lions on Kodiak Island, and Metlakatla in Southeast Alaska.

The telco noted that more upgrades across the state will come in the future.

“Bringing modern mobile service to communities across Alaska matters because reliable connectivity isn’t optional,” said Billy Wailand, senior vice president of corporate development, GCI. “It’s part of everyday life, and our job is to make sure it’s there when it matters most, no matter where you live.”

The upgrades are part of GCI's strategy to migrate customers off its legacy 2G and 3G networks, which are limited in support of today's mobile technology.

“This is a huge step forward, but we’re not done yet,” added Troy Goldie, senior vice president & chief technology officer, GCI. “By retiring older technologies and standardizing our infrastructure, we’re improving performance today while setting the stage for the continued evolution of our wireless network.

“This is about operating a smarter network. With better tools and visibility, our teams can respond more quickly, manage performance more effectively, and continue improving service over time.”

Founded in 1979, GCI is a subsidiary of Liberty Broadband and is Alaska's biggest communications provider. GCI provides data, mobile, voice, and managed services to consumer, business, government, and carrier customers throughout Alaska.

Last month, the company announced it's deploying Starlink satellite gateways to provide Internet services to customers.