Vodafone and Google announced that they have enhanced upload speeds using Vodafone UK’s 5G Ultra network, making it easier for customers to share 4K content with friends and family and on social media platforms, allowing live-streaming of movie-quality video content.
The network technology optimisations come in the wake of changing customer usage habits, with uploads of user-generated content, such as livestreaming, soaring in popularity. In June 2024, MIMO technology was introduced for the Google Pixel 8 Pro, resulting in faster uploads and enhanced Uplink Carrier Aggregation (ULCA) for increased download speeds. Additional ULCA combinations have also been introduced for the Google Pixel 9, 9 Pro, 9 Pro XL, and 9 Fold.
In recognition of the growing importance of user-generated content to customers, Vodafone and Google have partnered to improve upload speeds using a technology known as MIMO (Multiple Input, Multiple Output). Vodafone has doubled the number of antennas communicating with Google Pixel 8 Pro and Pixel 9, 9 Pro, 9 Pro XL, and 9 Fold phones, improving upload speeds and the reliability of the connection. The technology enables customers to quickly share captured 4K content, allowing live-streaming of movie-quality video content.
Vodafone also activated a technique known as Uplink Carrier Aggregation (ULCA) as an alternative feature to Uplink MIMO to allow faster uploads with the Google Pixel 9, 9 Pro, 9 Pro XL, and 9 Fold phones. In order to simultaneously improve download performances for Google Pixel 8 Pro and Google Pixel 9 series users, Vodafone also enhanced the ULCA combinations available on the 5G Ultra network, allowing the simultaneous aggregation of four bands. Both capabilities will be made available on other devices in the future.
Andrea Dona, Chief Network Officer, Vodafone UK
By looking at the data, we can clearly see customer behaviour changing as more of our lives become digital. In previous years, the digital highway was a one-way street, with consumers downloading significantly more data than uploading, but it is starting to balance out now. We must recognise this customer trend and adapt our network as a result.
Michiel van Eldik, VP, Devices & Services Partnerships, Google EMEA
We want our customers to have the freedom to share their experiences seamlessly and in the highest quality possible. That’s why we’re thrilled to partner with Vodafone on network advancements that make this a reality. Whether it’s live-streaming a concert or sharing a 4K video with loved ones, we’re committed to providing the best possible mobile experience.