IONX Networks and Virgin Media O2 (VMO2) have achieved a significant milestone for mobile connectivity in the UK by integrating a neutral-host small-cell into VMO2’s live 5G Standalone (SA) core network a first-of-its-kind deployment in the UK.
This advancement underscores VMO2’s commitment to next-generation 5G services, enabling faster speeds, lower latency and enhanced reliability even in previously difficult-to-reach areas.
For IONX, the integration marks a defining achievement: its proprietary platform aligns with the UK’s Joint Operator Technical Specification (JOTS) framework and meets the exacting standards of major U.S. carriers and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). The platform uses a unified, software-defined architecture and supports both MORAN and MOCN features, enabling operators to serve current 4G requirements while offering a seamless, cost-effective transition to full 5G SA.
Strengthening the UK’s 5G Future
VMO2’s 5G SA network now spans more than 500 towns and cities and reaches 70 % of the UK population. To keep pace with surging demand, infrastructure enhancement is essential. Neutral host operators like IONX play a vital role in infilling and densifying national network coverage through targeted small-cell deployments.
How IONX is powering next-generation mobile connectivity
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Supporting customer demand: By enabling use of both licensed and shared spectrum through a single shared infrastructure, IONX boosts network capacity where it’s needed most from high-quality video streaming to low-latency gaming and IoT devices.
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Consistent, nationwide connectivity: Neutral host small cells offer a low-cost, scalable solution for operators and venue owners bridging coverage gaps and strengthening signal quality in hard-to-reach locations.
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Future-ready performance: IONX’s software-defined platform allows architecture changes and network migration via simple configuration updates, without replacing existing hardware paving the way for immersive experiences, smart cities and next-generation digital services.
Deploying operator-specific small cells alone can be costly and inefficient. According to a recent report from the Small Cell Forum, “Small cells play a critical role, and it is through neutral host small cells that 5G SA service delivery will truly showcase its impact.” IONX responds to this challenge by offering a robust, multi-operator solution that delivers independent control, observability and security while allowing multiple operators to share the same infrastructure efficiently.
Also Read: HPE & Ericsson Partner to Validate Dual-Mode 5G Core Solution
Real-world proof
IONX and Virgin Media O2 conducted extensive testing with everyday 5G handsets connected to Virgin Media O2’s live 5G SA core via 5G small cells in Marlow. The results demonstrated exceptional performance across speed, capacity and latency while also maintaining the control, security and visibility required by operators.
“We’re proud to be the first to integrate our neutral host small cell platform with VMO2’s live 5G SA network,” said Jim Estes, CEO of IONX Networks. “This milestone proves that neutral host models are not just viable they’re essential to delivering high-performance 5G where customers actually need it.”
“At Virgin Media O2, we have the largest 5GSA of any operator and are focused on bringing it to more locations through our £700 m Mobile Transformation Plan,” said Rob Joyce, Director of Mobile Access Engineering at Virgin Media O2. “This neutral host approach supports our mission to densify 5G in a scalable, cost-effective way bringing the power of 5GSA to more people.”
Laying the groundwork for the connected future
This industry-leading collaboration not only enhances connectivity for end-customers but also advances key sector objectives:
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Supporting the Ofcom shared spectrum policy, enabling improved connectivity in underserved areas.
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Leveraging MORAN and MOCN architectures to deliver cost-effective, flexible deployments.
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Accelerating neutral host adoption in the UK via the JOTS framework.
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Enabling cloud-driven interoperability for better control, orchestration and visibility.
Together, IONX and Virgin Media O2 are shaping the future of UK connectivity demonstrating that the true promise of 5G Standalone isn’t just approaching, it’s already here, built on smarter, shared infrastructure.