A compact size 2 1 multiple-input–multiple-output (MIMO) antenna system operating in the 800 MHz band is proposed for long term evolution (LTE) handsets. The fabricated MIMO system has a typical isolation of 12 dB and a maximum gain of 2.2 dBi. Two isolation enhancement methods are investigated; one that looks into the depth of the ground split separating the two antennas, the other introduces extra splits within the arms of the GND plane. It is found that introducing extra splits within the arms of the GND plane of the proposed geometry enhances the isolation by at least 3 dB. The proposed MIMO antenna system is based on meander line antennas, and covers the band from 760 – 886 MHz. The size of the antenna system is 40 mm x 50 mm.