The University of Michigan is ushering in a new era of connectivity on campus, thanks to sweeping initiatives led by Information and Technology Services (ITS). ITS spearheaded a multi-year, project-based effort to modernize 5G cellular infrastructure, ultimately expanding, upgrading, and revolutionizing the campus cellular experience through U-M Net Cellular.
Beginning in 2022, ITS partnered with Architecture Engineering and Construction (AEC), Environment, Health, & Safety (EHS), Facilities and Operations (F&O), and Michigan Athletics IT, leading cellular carriers to fortify and expand 5G coverage across the university. An early milestone of the project was the rollout of 5G service at Michigan Stadium in 2023, which allowed fans to enjoy faster and more reliable connectivity during events. In 2024, ITS unveiled high-capacity 5G coverage at Michigan Stadium using advanced mmWave technology, launching support for both AT&T and Verizon networks just in time for football season.
This year marked a new phase of this effort, as ITS teams focus on constructing and commissioning state-of-the-art indoor cellular systems designed to serve the university well into the future. 2025 also saw the completion of a multi-year joint project resulting in a major improvement in Verizon’s outdoor 5G cellular speeds and capacity across all areas of the Ann Arbor campus. As part of these upgrades, ITS is working closely with carriers to modernize equipment, shrinking the physical footprint and environmental impact of cellular installations.
ITS most recently reached an agreement with T‑Mobile, paving the way for its service to be integrated into the university’s network infrastructure. Efforts are now underway to design, install, and activate T‑Mobile equipment throughout the Ann Arbor campus.
The initial 5G installation at Michigan Stadium dramatically enhanced coverage just in time for the sold-out, historic Zach Bryan concert in late September, ensuring thousands of fans experienced faster, more reliable connectivity throughout the event. As this project continues, T‑Mobile’s capacity doubled again ahead of the November 1 home game and T‑Mobile mmWave 5G is building out this month with full optimization by kick-off next season.
For students, staff, and visitors alike, the message is clear: connectivity on campus is getting faster, greener, and more reliable than ever before. The university community can look forward to further announcements in the coming months as U-M Net Cellular takes shape, positioning the University of Michigan at the forefront of campus wireless technology.
