The UK’s 3G mobile network is gradually being switched off over the next few years to make room for newer 4G and 5G networks. This page will help you understand the timescales for the switch off, whether you’ll be affected and what you can do to plan ahead.
When?
The ‘Big Four’ mobile network providers have made an agreement with the government that the 3G mobile network will be phased out by 2033.
| Mobile network operator | Switch off | Other providers affected |
|---|---|---|
| EE | EE plans to switch off their 3G network in 2024. | BT, Plusnet and Utility Warehouse use EE’s 3G network |
| O2 | O2 plans to switch off their 3G network in 2025. | Giffgaff, Sky and Tesco mobile use O2’s 3G network |
| Three | Three plans to switch off their 3G network by the end of 2024. | ID and Smarty use Three’s 3G network |
| Vodafone | Vodafone plans to switch off their network by December 2023. | Asda mobile, Lebara, Talkmobile, Virgin Mobile and VOXI use Vodafone’s 3G network |
Why?
The shift to newer networks is being driven by the demand for faster, more reliable mobile internet connectivity, as well as the increasing use of applications such as video streaming, gaming, and virtual reality. 4G and 5G networks can deliver faster speeds and lower latency, which are essential for supporting these types of applications.
All wireless communications signals, from TV to GPS services, travel over radio frequency known as spectrum. The available spectrum is limited, so by shutting down 3G networks operators can make space for the newer 4G and 5G networks which require more bandwidth.
The cost of maintaining and upgrading older 3G networks can also be expensive. Focusing on newer technologies can be more cost-effective and a better return on investment.
What devices will be affected?
Your provider should contact you if you will be affected and advise what steps you need to take.
If your phone supports 4G services, you shouldn’t need to do anything. You can check this in your phone’s settings or by looking online – search for the make and model of your device or find the phone on the manufacturer’s website to see if the specifications include 4G.
If your phone does not support 4G services, you might consider upgrading to a device that does. If you’re worried about the cost of replacing your device see our information on how to access cheap devices. Alternatively, as a temporary measure you could buy a SIM card for a network that still supports 3G once your supplier switches off their network.
If you have an older device on the 2G network, you will still be able to make calls and send text messages after the 3G switch-off. However, unless your device connects to Wi-Fi you will not be able to access data services. This excludes Three customers as they do not have a 2G network.
2G switch off
EE, O2 and Vodafone have confirmed that they will not offer their 2G services beyond 2033. No plans for how and when this will be switched off have been outlined yet.
Tips for the switch off
- Other devices might be affected such as security or care alarms. Contact your supplier who will be able to advise of the next steps for these devices.
- If your phone is not compatible with 4G or 5G check when travelling abroad that you’ll still be able to access roaming services.
- If you’re looking to replace your device and want to recycle your old device visit Recycle Now: Mobile phones
- Find out which providers offer the best signal in your area with Ofcom’s mobile coverage checker.
