The technology that provided the third generation (3G) of mobile network services is being switched off across the UK.
In December 2021, the government made an agreement with mobile network operators (MNOs) that 2G and 3G services would be phased out by 2033.
Networks have used four generations of technology: 2G, 3G, 4G and the latest, 5G.
Second-generation technology was rolled out during the early 1990s, followed by third-generation technology in 2003.
However, the introduction of 4G in 2012 and 5G in 2019 means that the earlier generations are considered inferior.
The providers could choose when they wish to end 2G and 3G services within the given timeframe, but they all chose to move ahead with the 3G switch-off far sooner than required.
Three of the four main mobile network providers in the UK – Vodafone, EE and Three – have all completed their full 3G switch-offs.
The only major provider left, Virgin Media O2, is continuing its slow switch-off in stages.
Here is everything you need to know.
Which areas will be affected and when?
The phone provider plans to have all its 3G services switched off by the end of 2025.
It started with a pilot in Durham, which became the first city to have 3G withdrawn on 2 April.
The following areas will have their 3G switched off on 16 July:
• Norwich
• Telford
• Guildford
And Torquay’s 3G will go on 4 August.
You can stay up to date with the network’s coverage checker to see what technologies are available in your area.
Which other UK mobile networks are affected?
Virgin Media O2 run several other smaller mobile providers, all of whom have the same dates for switch-offs. They are:
• Tesco Mobile
• Giffgaff
• Sky Mobile
• Virgin Mobile
• Lycamobile
What about the 2G switch-off?
None of the major network operators have set a specific date for the 2G switch-off, but Ofcom says it expects they will start making plans to switch off their 2G networks after they have switched off 3G – likely towards the latter half of this decade.
How will all of this impact me?
If you have an older phone that is only designed for 2G or 3G networks and no later generation, you may not be able to make phone calls, send messages or upload data in the areas where it’s been turned off.
Virgin Media says the vast majority of customers already have a 4G or 5G device and will not have to take any action as a result of the switch off.
But it said it has been directly contacting all customers across the UK currently without a compatible handset to inform them that they will require a 4G SIM card and device to continue using mobile data once 3G is switched off.
It added that known vulnerable customers have already been offered a 4G-ready device free of charge, while all other customers who do not currently have a 4G handset or SIM will be offered a new device at a reduced price.
If you have an older device, connecting to the latest technologies, such as 4G and 5G networks might be harder. Pic:iStock
If you are concerned or confused about what to do, speak to your network provider to see what might be the best option for you.
Ofcom has said that even after the 3G switch-off, customers using EE, Vodafone and O2 networks on older devices can still use 2G – until it switches off – to make voice calls and send text messages. Three does not have a 2G network.
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What will be the impact on other types of devices?
The Ofcom report said the switch-off would affect all devices reliant on 2G and 3G mobile connectivity, such as:
• Telecare alarms – This is a security device that offers remote support to elderly, disabled and vulnerable people who live alone in their own homes.
• Security alarms
• ATMs
• Payment Terminals – This device is also known as a point of sale, which takes payment from cards during a purchase.
People are advised to upgrade their networks if they have any of these devices to ensure it still works once 3G networks are switched off across the country.
You can check this with your device supplier or service provider.
The government is working closely with Ofcom and network services across the country to ensure that sectors that rely on 2G and 3G are aware of the changes and are prepared.
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