26 June 2023 , 09:09
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Some very lucky Samsung Galaxy owners are getting the ultimate speed boost thanks to a big upgrade from Vodafone. The UK network has just announced the launch of a new 5G service and those with a Galaxy S21 or Galaxy S22 in their pockets will be the very first to get it.
The upgrade, which Vodafone is calling 5G Ultra, offers users much faster speeds which should be up to 10 times quicker than standard 4G. That means streaming movies on the move or downloading files away from home will be much smoother.
Of course, 5G data downloads aren’t anything new but what sets this new option apart from current technology is that it’s a totally standalone service.
As Vodafone explains, “5G service offered by telecoms companies relies partly on 4G technology (which is why it is known as 5G Non-standalone), Vodafone’s 5G Standalone has every element fully upgraded and future proofed.”
Along with being way faster, it should also help devices be more efficient with users seeing up to 25% longer battery life. 5G is also better when lots of people are trying to use it at the same time - that's good news for anyone trying to post a picture at a people-packed football stadium or pop concert.
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Right now 5G Ultra is available on those two Galaxy phones with Vodafone promising that more devices will be added next month.
So how do you access it?
Vodafone says that customers with a compatible handset who signed up to a Pay Monthly contract after February 24 will have 5G Ultra added to their plan automatically, at no extra cost as will all new and upgrading customers from now on.
It is worth noting that 5G Ultra is only available in certain areas of the UK including London, Manchester, Glasgow, and Cardiff. It's unclear what areas will be next to get the boost.
Speaking about the launch Max Taylor, Vodafone Consumer Director, said: “Today our reliable, award-winning network gets even better with the launch of Vodafone 5G Ultra. Our customers in London, Manchester, Glasgow, and Cardiff will be the first to experience the fast speeds, longer lasting battery life and even more reliable connectivity 5G Ultra brings.”