Mobile network provider Three UK has claimed that it has achieved a twofold increase in mobile speeds in the heart of Glasgow following the initial phase of a new technology trial.
In what Three described as a ‘groundbreaking’ first implementation of Open RAN infrastructure in a densely populated urban setting, the trial aimed to evaluate how the technology functions in heavy traffic areas, where the integration with pre-existing mobile sites and other technologies introduces additional challenges.
As its name implies, Open RAN, or Open Radio Access Network, seeks to enhance the Radio Access Network by utilising standardised interfaces and the ‘cloudification’ of both hardware and software, enabling components from various suppliers to collaborate effectively.
Proponents of this technology argue that it could offer greater flexibility and interoperability for operators, stimulate competition, and help to secure network infrastructure for the future, making it easier to upgrade as new technologies are developed.
After deploying Open RAN small cells at eighteen locations throughout Glasgow city center and linking these with its core network, Three reported that this latest trial produced ‘remarkable’ outcomes, indicating that both 4G and 5G speeds doubled during peak periods, with 5G speeds soaring up to 520Mbps.
The network noted that the enhanced performance also alleviated congestion at nearby mobile sites by boosting overall capacity and managing live traffic from Three customers, marking a significant achievement for Open RAN in the UK, which until now had primarily been implemented in rural areas.
The network said that the improved performance also helped ease congestion on surrounding mobile sites by increasing overall capacity and handling live traffic from Three customers, marking a major milestone for Open RAN in the UK, which so far has only been used in rural locations.
“This is the UK’s first Open RAN trial to tackle the real-world complexity of a dense urban environment,” said Iain Milligan, Chief Network Officer at Three UK.
“Urban deployments bring a different level of technical and operational challenge compared to rural environments. We’ve had to navigate integration with legacy systems, security layers, and evolving software – all while delivering measurable improvements for customers.
“The trial results are encouraging and provide a strong foundation for further scaling and optimisation of Open RAN in cities.”
