BT Group has deployed a ‘first’ real-world 5G standalone network across the EE mobile network that will help support faster and more reliable mobile payments.
The launch comes following a two week trial in Belfast across the Christmas period, where EE’s 5G network facilitated mobile payments in Northern Ireland’s capital Christmas markets.
Eight mobile payment terminals at the Lavery Beer Tent in Belfast gained the ability to process card and mobile payments for thousands of customers backed by BT network slicing. This is designed to enhance consumer protection and payment speed while reducing latency for businesses.
Ryan Murphy, Chair of Belfast City Council’s Strategic, Policy and Resources Committee, said: “Having access to world-class advanced wireless connectivity is essential for our local businesses.
“It’s brilliant to see Belfast benefit from BT Group’s first ever real-world deployment of network slicing, helping local business Lavery’s to enhance its operations and provide an even better customer experience at the very popular Belfast Christmas Market.”
Belfast was one of 15 launch cities to gain access to EE’s 5G Standalone network in September 2024, paving the way for BT Group to roll out network slicing for business customers.
The company has been investing heavily in futured-proofed network infrastructure across the region to ensure it is ready for the launch of such services. The trial sought to demonstrate the capability of network slicing to bypass congestion in busy locations and keep businesses connected.
Paul Murnaghan, BT Group’s Northern Ireland Director, added: “Businesses increasingly rely on technology that’s able to cope with the demands of the ever-pervasive digital world, securely. We have all visited a retailer and had the awkward ‘wait while we check’ to see if a payment has been completed correctly.
“Network slicing helps tackle this problem by enabling consistently fast and smooth connectivity, critically giving certainty to both traders and customers even when the network is busy in specific locations like Belfast Christmas Market.”