Virgin Media O2 has deployed what it claims to be the UK's first 5G Standalone (5G SA) small cells.

In an announcement today (November 6), the carrier revealed that it has installed 5G SA small cells in central Birmingham.

The company launched its 5G SA network back in February.

Virgin Media O2 explained that the small cells have been installed on existing street furniture in areas surrounding Birmingham’s Broad Street and Fleet Street.

Outdoor small cells are typically fixed to existing street furniture, such as lampposts.

They are seen as a simpler alternative to bulkier telecom infrastructure, which might look out of place or draw criticism from residents.

Virgin Media O2 deployed the cells in partnership with Ontix and Alpha Wireless, using MIMO (Multiple Input Multiple Output) technology for the first time. The carrier claims the small cells are providing speeds of up 300Mbps.

“Small cells are playing a vital part in our mission to bring reliable mobile coverage to all customers and improve services in the busiest areas," said Jeanie York, chief technology officer at Virgin Media O2.

“Having already turned on our cutting-edge 5G standalone network in more than 300 towns and cities, available to customers at no extra cost, we’re working hard to ensure all our customers consistently receive an exceptional network experience wherever they are and even at the busiest times.”

Virgin Media O2 has previously deployed small cells in Reading and Manchester.