EE launches UK consumer 5G network slice service Fast Lane

TL;DR: EE launched Fast Lane, which it said is the UK’s first commercial 5G network slicing service for consumers and small businesses. The service moves eligible users onto a dedicated slice of EE’s 5G+ network during expected congestion. Consumer access comes through the Full Works Plus plan, priced £5 above EE’s existing top-tier Full Works tariff.

EE launched Fast Lane in the UK as a commercial 5G network slicing offer for consumers and small businesses. Network slicing is a 5G feature that creates a dedicated virtual segment of a mobile network for specific performance needs. EE said Fast Lane is designed to shift eligible users onto a dedicated slice of its 5G+ network when demand is expected to rise, including during rush hours and major events.

EE said Fast Lane is available to consumers on its new premium Full Works Plus plan, which costs £5 more than its existing top-tier Full Works mobile tariff. EE said small-business customers can access the service through eligible Full Works business plans. EE said both consumer and business users need a compatible 5G+ device, SIM and coverage to use the service.

EE said its approach differs from Vodafone Business, which launched a commercial 5G network slicing service in April for enterprises at defined sites or local areas. EE said Fast Lane extends slicing to consumers and small businesses through standard tariffs. EE added that its 5G+ network currently covers about 78% of the UK population and that it plans to reach 99% by the end of March 2030 under BT Group’s £40 billion UK investment programme.

Related questions

• What is EE Fast Lane and how does it use 5G network slicing?
• Which EE plans include Fast Lane for consumers and small businesses?
• How does EE’s Fast Lane differ from Vodafone Business’s 5G slicing offer?
• What share of the UK population does EE’s 5G+ network currently cover?