EE switches on 5G in Ipswich as operator named NO.1 network for gaming

EE today announced it has switched on 5G in Ipswich as it becomes the first town in Suffolk to receive the service on its network.

Ipswich is among 13 new towns to receive 5G through EE, including: Burton-upon-Trent, Cannock, Grimsby, Halifax, Leamington Spa, Middlesbrough, Neath, Portishead, St Albans, Tamworth, Stockport and Swinton.

EE launched the UK’s first 5G service in May 2019 and has now expanded to 125 towns and cities across the UK. The mobile network operator was also today named the UK’s no.1 network for gaming. According to the latest independent testing by RootMetrics, EE’s network recorded the fastest aggregate median download speed of any network, the lowest packet loss, and the lowest jitter** during Rootmetrics UK-wide testing.

Network insights from EE show increased appetite for mobile gaming. The launch of the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S in November 2020 saw peak traffic for gaming services increase by more than 50 per cent compared to the same time the month before. Mobile traffic for PlayStation alone increased almost three-fold between October and November 2020.

Marc Allera, CEO of BT’s Consumer business, said: “Today’s recognition shows the continued investment we’re making to keep our customers connected to what matters most to them, whether that’s enjoying the latest gaming release, sharing video calls with loved ones, or online learning. Our award-winning 5G service is now available in 125 towns and cities across the UK, and our rollout continues so we can bring the best mobile experience to even more people and places.”

Jane Thomas, BT Group regional lead for the East of England, said: “It’s fantastic that Ipswich has become the first town in Suffolk to receive 5G on EE’s network, bringing faster speeds and more reliable connections for people in the area.

“At a time when connectivity has never been more important to stay in touch with family and friends remotely, the arrival of 5G makes this even easier. It will also bring significant benefits for businesses, and those who rely on fast and low latency connections, such as gamers.”

Councillor Matthew Hicks, Leader of Suffolk County Council said: “The Covid-19 pandemic has seen many of us switch to more digital technologies in our every day lives. The need for digital connectivity is predicted to grow even further over the next few years and this will be particularly important for our businesses, as well as general consumers.

“The infrastructure to support this will be vital and 5G technology is an integral part of that. I’m delighted that EE has connected Ipswich to its network and this will only enhance the town’s reputation as a place to live, work and do business.”

EE named UK’s No.1 network for gaming comes as EE is also set to imminently launch an exciting new mobile focused gaming bundle. Further details on this, including availability and eligibility – will be announced very shortly.

For more information visit the EE website