Vodafone makes Birmingham New Street the first UK 5G train station

British telecom major Vodafone has launched a live trial of its 5G cellular mobile communication technology at Birmingham New Street rail station.

Part of Vodafone’s UK-wide trial, the 5G technology will allow passengers to load a web page or a video instantly using compatible 5G handsets and devices.

Additionally, the company has invited commuters at the station to test 5G speeds using a 5G router.

Due to low latency, passengers can stream a movie or download a work file over 5G seamlessly without buffering or lag.

“5G will enable new applications and experiences and support the development of connected cities and smart transport solutions.”

Vodafone said that it will be introducing 5G to a number of key commuter locations across the UK this year. It will transfer the new network in 19 towns and cities by the end of 2019.

Live testing is being conducted at various sites, which are connected to Vodafone’s single optical fibre converged network.

Vodafone Business director Anne Sheehan said: “We are delighted to bring 5G to the West Midlands, giving businesses, residents and visitors fast and reliable connectivity even in exceptionally busy locations such as train stations and airports.

“5G will enable new applications and experiences and support the development of connected cities and smart transport solutions. It will help businesses to implement emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, IoT and robotics.”

Initiated and jointly funded by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS), the West Midlands Urban Connected Communities 5G Project (UCC) will create the UK’s first region-wide 5G testbed, which will be launched later this year.