Virgin Media has agreed a new deal with Vodafone UK to provide the mobile services for its Virgin Mobile network until 2026, including 5G delivery.
As the world’s first mobile virtual network operator (MVNO), Virgin Mobile had previously worked with BT Enterprise to deliver its mobile services, but that contract is due to expire in 2021, and will not be renewed.
Huge investments
"We are delighted that Virgin has recognised the huge investments we’ve made, and continue to make, in building the UK’s best mobile network."
Nick Jeffery, Vodafone UK CEO.
The new partnership between Virgin Media and Vodafone UK comes at a critical point for the UK’s network operators, with 5G providing a host of new opportunities. And Virgin Mobile customers have been told they can expect Vodafone 5G services in the “near future”.
“We are delighted that Virgin has recognised the huge investments we’ve made, and continue to make, in building the UK’s best mobile network and our role in challenging the market with new commercial services,” said Nick Jeffery, Vodafone UK CEO. “As a result, they have chosen us to work with them in the next phase of their development.”
New world of opportunity
As a full MVNO, Virgin Mobile has control over the products and services it offers. This means that the transition from BT Enterprise to Vodafone UK will be seamless for customers, who won’t even need to swap out their SIM card.
“Twenty years ago Virgin Mobile became the world’s first virtual operator and this new agreement builds on that heritage,” said Lutz Schüler, Virgin Media CEO. “It will open up a whole new world of opportunity for Virgin Media as we focus on becoming the most recommended brand for customers and bring our mobile and broadband connectivity closer together in one package for one price.”
- The pro's guide to 5G security
- Discover the top 5G phones
- 5G dangers: the fact and the fiction
- Will 5G Internet replace fibre broadband?
