OXFORD is set to be the first of three major UK cities to enjoy a 5G speed boost after the wind down of ageing 3G services.
Brits will soon be able to access the “enhanced” connectivity from mobile infrastructure services provider Cornerstone.
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Cornerstone is plotting a small cell network that will deliver “next-generation connectivity through existing street lighting infrastructure”.
The company, which handles the UK network sharing agreement between Vodafone and O2 , is deploying the citywide network this year.
Small cells are shoebox-sized radio stations that push out 5G signals up to around 100metres.
They can be attached to buildings, stadiums, and streetlights in populated areas to ensure each mobile user has access to a strong mobile data signal.
Areas with lots of people traffic can experience network congestion.
Like a busy motorway, if the network has lots of mobile users trying to use 5G it can slow things down for everyone.
The new deployment in Oxford is being supported by lighting company Signify and platform provider Dense Air.
“By turning street lighting into connected infrastructure, we’re enabling cities to grow smarter without growing messier,” Khalid Aziz, of Signify, said.
Pat Coxen, CEO of Cornerstone, said: “Our Oxford deployment is a prime example of how we are working with partners and local authorities to transform urban infrastructure, support economic growth, and create more connected communities.”
Small cells are not a new technology for 5G – they were also deployed in 3G and 4G networks.
Vodafone began its 3G switch-off in Oxford in June 2023, and has since completed its nationwide shut down of the network.
Virgin Media O2 began its 3G switch-off in April 2025, and expects to complete it by 31 December 2025.
While the change is coming to O2, it will affect other operators that use the network, including Tesco Mobile, GiffGaff and Sky Mobile.
“Like other networks in the UK and abroad, we’re switching off our 3G network so that we can focus on our faster, more reliable and more energy-efficient 4G and 5G networks,” O2 says in a help page on its website.
Cornerstone, alongside Signify and Dense Air, said they will roll out similar small cell networks in two more UK cities in 2025.
Additional locations are expected to follow at a later date, according to the company’s involved, although no details have been shared.
Can I still use my mobile data?
If your phone is only compatible with 2G and 3G, you will no longer be able to access most of your mobile data allowance.
You must upgrade your phone to a newer model that can connect to 4G or 5G if you want to use your mobile data.
O2 warned its customers earlier this month that there is still “significant” traffic on its 2G and 3G airwaves.
Telecoms regulator Ofcom has offered advice for consumers on the switch-off on their website.
