The UK’s mobile services currently use four different generations of mobile technology: 2G, 3G, 4G and 5G. The 3G networks have been around since 2003 and are used to deliver calls, texts and lower speed data services. Mobile providers have started to switch off their 3G networks, and this will affect customers on those networks using older mobile devices and services. If you have a 4G or 5G mobile device or service, this change is unlikely to affect you and may only require a software or settings update. Each mobile provider is setting its own timetable for the network switch-off.
These timings might change, and you should check your mobile provider’s website for the latest update:
3G has been superseded by 4G and 5G networks over recent years, with the 3G network carrying less and less traffic. By focusing investment on 4G and 5G networks, the networks will be able to further expand and upgrade services, so you can benefit from faster download speeds and higher quality voice calls.
The programme will also contribute to network sustainability goals and it’s important to bear in mind that 4G and 5G is significantly more energy-efficient compared to the use of older 3G equipment. For example, while 3G accounts for less than 4% of data used on the O2 network, it accounts for 11% of their total energy consumption. 4G and 5G, which account for 96% of mobile network data traffic, are 10 times more efficient. In summary, O2 are not the first to switch off, but they will begin the switch off 3G in 2025. This is also happening in other countries across the world – for example, did you know that 3G has already been switched off in the US?
Jeanie York, CTO of VMO2, said: “With the switch-off work progressing well, we’re now assessing the future of our older 2G network. Currently, less than 1% of our customers use 2G-only devices, and the network carries less than 0.1% of data traffic. All mobile operators have agreed with Government to phase out 2G networks over the next decade. With future-proof networks now in place and ongoing investments helping to further expand them, next year we’ll start work to move almost all remaining traffic away from the 2G network.
Unlike our 3G network, we won’t be turning 2G off completely. In fact, we expect to continue operating it for several years and it will play an important role in carrying emergency calls in more remote areas without 4G coverage. We’ll also use it to support data traffic for smart energy meters, contributing to the UK’s transition to a lower-carbon economy. By redirecting most ‘human’ traffic to newer, faster and more energy-efficient networks while reserving the older slower network for some data-light ‘machine’ communications, our customers will get the best possible experience whether they are calling, messaging or using data on the go.”
Dan Walter, Head of Technology at Active Digital, commented; If you’re using an older device that doesn’t allow you to use 4G or 5G, you’ll need to get a new one to continue to access your mobile data. We can help you if you need support with this.
It is also not just just phones that you need to consider. Some other devices, such as care alarms, security alarms, lifts and payment terminals, may also operate using 3G networks. If you have any of these devices, it may need to be upgraded to make sure they still work when the network is switched off. Please do contact our team for advice. We can help you find out if this will be a problem, and what you need to do.”
Additionally, it’s essential to ensure that your SIM card is compatible with these new networks. If your SIM card is more than 10 years old, it might not support 4G or 5G services. In such cases, our team will conduct a free SIM swap for you ahead of the switch-off. You can contact the support team at [email protected] to arrange this.
Our priority is to make this transition as smooth as possible for all our customers during the 3G switch-off. We are committed to providing support and guidance throughout this process. Please reach out to your Account Manager or the support team at Active Digital to discuss your current handset and ensure it meets the new requirements.
