People and businesses in Stoke-on-Trent have been promised "next-generation mobile connectivity" as O2 has switched on its new 5G+ mobile network.

The rollout across the West Midlands will reach 47 large towns and cities, 79 smaller towns and 597 rural villages, "helping more O2 customers get a faster, more reliable mobile experience at no extra cost".

"With more than five million people and countless businesses based in the region, it's good news for customers working, living, and commuting in the area," 02 said.

O2's mobile network has been upgraded across the West Midlands including in Stoke-on-Trent, Warwick, Birmingham, Coventry, Cannock, Dudley, Solihull, Stratford-upon-Avon, Royal Leamington Spa, Rugby, Wolverhampton and West Bromwich.

All towns, cities and counties included in the 5G+ rollout programme are promised at least 90 per cent outdoor 5G+ coverage — "so O2 mobile customers can be confident they'll get broad network coverage and it won't just be limited to a few small locations".

O2's 5G+ mobile network uses standalone 5G technology, meaning it runs on dedicated 5G infrastructure end-to-end.

Unlike earlier 5G services, which relied partly on existing 4G systems, 5G+ allows mobile networks to operate more efficiently and deliver significantly improved performance for customers.