The 2G and 3G mobile networks are gradually being switched off over the next few years. Here’s what this means for you as a customer.
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.
3G networks rely on older, less efficient technology
Mobile providers are switching off the 3G networks to make room for the more advanced 4G and 5G networks. 4G and 5G give customers better, faster and more reliable services.
Providers are switching off their networks at different times
Each mobile provider is setting its own timetable for its 3G network switch-off. These timings might change and you should check your mobile provider’s website for the latest update:
- Vodafone completed its switch-off in early 2024.
- EE completed its switch-off in early 2024.
- Three has switched off its 3G network across most of the UK.
- O2 is planning to switch-off 3G in 2025.
These are the four main mobile network providers in the UK. All other mobile companies provide their services over these networks. For example:
- Lebara Mobile, Asda Mobile , Talk Mobile and VOXI use the Vodafone network.
- Your Co-op, 1p Mobile, Utility Warehouse, Ecotalk, Lycamobile and BT Mobile use the EE network.
- iD Mobile and Smarty, Freedompop and Superdrug Mobile use the Three network.
- Tesco Mobile, Giffgaff, and Sky Mobile use the O2 network.
3G switch-off timings for these providers will be the same as the network they are using.
2G will be switched off by 2033
All MNOs have confirmed to the Government that they will switch off 2G by 2033 at the latest, and individual MNOs may decide to switch off services earlier than that deadline. All 2G devices will need to be upgraded to at least 4G.
In 2025 O2 intends to start work to move almost all remaining traffic away from its 2G network. It won’t be switching 2G off completely for several years. For example, it will continue to use it for carrying emergency calls in more remote areas without 4G coverage.
EE has announced it is beginning the process of contacting its business customers who use 2G to encourage and support migration. It has not set a date for 2G switch-off but it will not be until later this decade.
Your provider will tell you if you’re affected
Your mobile provider will contact you to let you know if you are affected and what steps you need to take. You might also be able to check your device settings to see if it has 4G available – try checking under ‘mobile networks’ or ‘mobile data’.
If you have a newer device, you might not need to do anything
If you’re already using a newer 4G or 5G device, you shouldn’t need to do anything. Some 4G devices might still need a software or settings update to ensure any calls you make use the right network. Your provider will tell you if that’s the case and explain how to make the updates needed.
If you have an older device, it will need to be replaced
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. Again, your provider will tell you if that’s the case, so look out for any messages they send to you. They should give you lots of notice so you have time to find the right device for you.
If you’re worried that you won’t be able to afford a new device, tell your provider. They might be able to offer additional support and help with identifying affordable options.
Customers using the EE and Vodafone networks with an older device are still able to make calls and send text messages after 3G switch-off. These services can use the 2G network, which isn’t being switched off yet. But the 2G network was not designed to work for accessing data services, so customers with older devices will no longer be able to access most of their mobile data services after 3G switch-off (although where older devices can connect to Wi-Fi, customers can still use this to access data services).
Three doesn’t have a 2G network, so if you’re using the Three network and have an older device that doesn’t allow you to use 4G or 5G, you’ll need to replace it to make sure you can continue to make calls, send text messages and access mobile data after 3G is switched off.
Check in with any friends and family that you think might be affected by the changes too, to see if they need help in understanding what they need to do.
If you are buying a device, make sure it supports 4G
If you are buying a device, particularly from a third party seller (such as online marketplaces or in a supermarket), check that it supports the 4G network if you want to use it to access mobile data services. The information provided by the seller at the point of sale should tell you which networks (sometimes referred to as ‘technologies’) the device can use.
Other types of device might be affected
Some other devices, such as care alarms, security alarms and payment terminals, might also use 2G and/or 3G networks. If you have a device like this, it might need to be upgraded to make sure it still works after the 3G networks are switched off. Check with your device supplier or service provider to find out if your device will be affected.
2G and 3G networks are also being switched off around the world
The 2G and 3G networks are gradually being switched off around the world; all the 3G networks have already been switched off in the USA. Each country has a different timetable for switch-off.
If you’re travelling to a country where the switch-off has already begun, it might affect your roaming experience. In some cases, you might not be able to make calls or access data unless you are connected to Wi-Fi (especially if you have an older phone). Speak to your provider before you leave the UK, and read our related advice on using your phone abroad.
More information
If you have any questions or concerns about 3G switch-off, please contact your mobile provider.
We have also published information on how we expect mobile providers to approach the switch-off.