Telefónica leads 5G connectivity in Catalonia

The rollout of 5G has become one of the driving forces behind Catalonia's digital transformation. This technology has not only boosted the development of major cities but has also contributed to improving connectivity in rural areas and less densely populated regions. Telefónica has played a leading role in this process: it is currently the operator with the most extensive 5G coverage in the country, reaching almost the entire Catalan population and a total of 701 municipalities across the four provinces.

Territorial Deployment and Coverage

In the city of Barcelona, ​​service coverage approaches the entire population, placing the Catalan capital in a prominent position within the European connectivity landscape. This extensive coverage has been made possible by the deployment of a large number of nodes distributed throughout the territory, operating on the two main frequency bands used for 5G in Spain: 3,500 MHz and 700 MHz. These nodes allow for simultaneous service to several municipalities and guarantee network reach, especially in hard-to-reach areas.

5G+ and performance improvements

Telefónica is also leading the rollout of what is known as 5G+ or other features, based on the 3,500 MHz band. This technology offers speeds exceeding two Gbps and very low latency, improving the user experience for downloads, streaming audiovisual content, and applications requiring immediate response. At the same time, it provides a more robust network on which to develop advanced services for individuals and businesses. To reinforce indoor and large-area coverage, Telefónica has completed its deployment with nodes using the 700 MHz band. This combination allows for better connectivity in rural areas, along highways, and in spaces where the signal typically has greater difficulty penetrating. 5G Standalone and Business Applications

Telefónica's entire 5G deployment in Catalonia is of the type Standalone (SA), meaning it operates on a complete 5G infrastructure independent of the 4G network. This architecture allows for maximum performance, such as higher transmission speeds, lower latency, and greater stability. Furthermore, it opens the door to services such as Network Slicing –which allows creating network segments adapted to different needs– and theEdge Computing, which facilitates data processing near the point of use.

These functionalities are especially relevant in sectors such as industry, logistics, or public administration such as citizen services (Smart CitiesIn this area, Telefónica has been a pioneer in Spain by offering a mobile connectivity service with Network Slicing For businesses, after years of testing with real customers.

Seasonal boost and event coverage

The operator also implements reinforcement plans in tourist areas and during major events, with the aim of guaranteeing quality connectivity even during peak demand. Last summer, Telefónica launched an action plan in 84 Catalan municipalities—both coastal and inland—to respond to the increased traffic resulting from the influx of tourists. Among the towns that benefited were Cadaqués, Roses, Begur, Sant Pol de Mar, Sitges, Calafell, Cambrils, L'Ametlla de Mar, Puigcerdà, and Vielha i Mijaran. In total, the rollout reached 69 municipalities along the coast of Barcelona, ​​Girona, and Tarragona, and another 15 inland municipalities in Lleida and Girona. This expansion strengthens the presence of the 5G network throughout the region and consolidates its reach. Public-private collaboration

The expansion of 5G in Catalonia is also part of public-private partnership projects. Telefónica participates in initiatives driven by the UNICO Redes program, aimed at extending coverage to rural municipalities and areas with lower commercial profitability. These actions help reduce the digital divide and ensure that the transition to high-speed connectivity reaches the entire region.