Europe’s first standalone commercial 5G network launched

The network, which is being launched in Germany, will be accessible on the OPPO Find X3 Pro, which the company describes as its “premium product”.

Standalone (SA) 5G is a "more complete form of 5G network," operating as it does independently of 4G infrastructure. OPPO said the development is a "milestone for 5G," having been developed from private SA networks.

According to OPPO, users in Dusseldorf, Munster, and Leipzig will be the first to benefit from the network, which promises “much lower latency at 1 millisecond, compared to 20 milliseconds for 5G NSA (non-standalone)”.

The network uses bespoke cell towers for signalling and information instead of relying on LTE network infrastructure.

Henry Duan, vice president and president of smartphones at OPPO, said: “OPPO is proud to be the only mobile device provider to participate in the commercialisation of Europe’s first 5G SA network.

“As a pioneer in 5G, OPPO will continue to work with industry leaders to increase access to 5G services and create more unique experiences for our users worldwide.”