Vodafone has launched its 5G network across nine locations today (July 3) including Birmingham, Bristol, Cardiff, Glasgow, Isles of Scilly, Manchester, Newbury, Liverpool and London
It is the second UK network to launch 5G, following on from EE in May this year.
Birkenhead, Blackpool, Bournemouth, Guildford, Portsmouth, Plymouth, Reading, Southampton, Stoke-on-Trent and Wolverhampton are due to receive 5G by the end of 2019.
The 5G network is up to 10 times faster than 4G, working at average speeds of 150-200Mbps.
It means those with compatible phones will be able to load a web page, stream videos or download files in super-fast time, including downloading a full HD film in just 3 minutes.
Users will also be able to travel to certain European countries, including Italy, Spain and Germany, and access 5G without being charged - as long as the area is supported.
The company's chief executive, Nick Jeffery, said: "5G will transform the way we live and work.
“Our customers are streaming over 50 per cent more content today than they did last year, and with 5G the demand for data is only set to increase.
“That is why we want to remove the limits on data, so that customers can unlock the full potential of 5G , and we can really propel the UK into the digital age."
The switch-on was marked with the world's first demonstration showing how 5G can be used to transmit touch using haptic technology.
Two players from Wasps rugby team were able to run a training session despite being more than 100 miles apart.
The impact of a rugby tackle made by Will Rowlands at the Ricoh Arena in Coventry was transferred via 5G to teammate Juan de Jongh on stage in London. Juan, in a specially developed haptic Teslasuit, was able to feel the force of the tackle in real-time.
How to access the 5G network
Vodafone is currently only offering two compatible devices - the Samsung Galaxy S10 5G and Xiaomi Mi MIX 3 5G.
However, the network is also planning to launch its own 5G GigaCube - a wireless router that will turn the 5G network into wifi.
What's the cost of 5G?
Vodafone says it will not charge a price premium for access to its 5G network and all unlimited SIMs are 5G ready. It is launching its Unlimited plan on July 10.
"By offering unlimited plans to our consumer and business customers, we will revolutionise the market," added Mr Jeffery.
