T-Mobile and Jio achieve first 5G Standalone roaming

T-Mobile and Indian operator Jio achieved the world's first 5G Standalone roaming connection on September 21, 2026. The milestone was completed through network interoperability supported by Syniverse's global mediation platform.

The setup allows T-Mobile customers to access 5G Standalone roaming while traveling internationally. The technology offers faster speeds, lower latency, and more reliable connections, which support internet-of-things applications, real-time communications, and enterprise services.

T-Mobile Chief Network Officer Ankur Kapoor noted that the company began laying the groundwork for a standalone network in 2020. Mark Yarkosky, head of international network, partnership and services at Jio, added that the partnership establishes cross-network capabilities for artificial intelligence and differentiated consumer experiences.

Syniverse Chief Product Officer John Wick stated that the platform uses proprietary SEPP capabilities to help mobile operators validate and commercially launch next-generation roaming across global networks.