Clear Channel UK manages the bus shelters which the small cells have been installed in on behalf of mobile network operator Virgin Media O2.
As a result, small cell technology from infrastructure-as-a-service providers can be installed anywhere there’s a Clear Channel shelter and a requirement to increase network capacity in the area.
Busy areas such as high streets, where bus shelters are already providing an essential public service, place greater demand on networks as more people are trying to use the mobile signal from the same macrocell. Outdoor small cells therefore increase access and capacity in the area around them, making it easier for people to connect.
Simon Frumkin, CEO at Freshwave, explained, “I’m proud of our constant engineering and design innovations, as well as the way we collaborate in new ways with industry partners and local authorities.
“Smart cities and towns need new approaches to digital connectivity. And the more existing street assets that can be used to bring this to our towns, the better it is for both the mobile network operators and the customers and communities they serve. This is why we’re already working on a multi-operator, multi-technology design for bus shelter use too.”
Will Ramage, co-managing director at Clear Channel UK, said, “We’re glad Freshwave are the first organisation to have seized this opportunity with us, and it’s been great working with the team for this pilot.
“Helping to provide mobile connectivity plays a big part in our Platform for Good commitment to the public, and we’re excited to support this technology in lots of other communities around the UK.”
Pete Hollebon, outdoor small cell and microcell delivery lead at Virgin Media O2, added, “Collaboration with partners such as Freshwave and Clear Channel is crucial to delivering the best possible network experience for our customers.
“This industry-first achievement provides us with new options when it comes to our continual network improvements and we’re looking forward to adding the technology to further sites.”