Customers of this mobile network in Northampton will have better internet speeds thanks to upgrade of 5G mast

An existing 5G mast in the Abington area of Northampton is being upgraded by O2 so that its customers will have better mobile network performance.

An O2 spokesman said: "We're currently upgrading an existing mast in the Abington area so that O2 customers can benefit from enhanced network performance and faster connections, serving the local community at a time when connectivity is more important than ever."

There are 24 streets in Northampton that have been given approval as a site for a 5G capable mast.Mobile UK, the industry body for all four UK mobile networks, said 5G is a 'true game changer technology'.

The industry body says on its website there are three key benefits of 5G, which are faster download speeds, lower latency, or in simple terms less lag when playing games, and greater capacity to deal with data demands.

Mobile UK also outlined the economic benefits of 5G.

"5G has the potential to radically transform UK productivity and prosperity. In some cases, the potential of 5G has been likened to the fourth industrial revolution.

"The Future Communications Challenge Group has estimated that the economic impact of 5G on the UK could be around £112bn in 2020 per annum, rising to £164bn in 2030. In other words, about £2,500 per head of population.

"O2 found that by 2026 the direct economic benefits of 5G rollout will beat those of broadband and these would be delivered almost twice as quickly as traditional fibre," a Mobile UK spokesman said.

Examples where 5G could be used in a real life situation, according to Mobile UK, include:

Optimised services – utilisation of smart bins and intelligent lighting could save councils £2.8 billion a year.

Remote health services – NHS could see up to 1.1 million GP hours freed up through telehealth services.

Connected cars – 5G will be critical to connected cars which will require a constant and guaranteed connection.

Holographic video – industrial equipment could be controlled remotely helping increase worker safety and 3D medical imaging and remote surgery could become a reality.