RIP 3G
Our most common inquiry recently has been regarding the closure of 3G.
Very boring, but here's what you might need to know:
Mobile providers are switching off 3G networks to make room for 4G and 5G networks, which are faster, more reliable services and are cheaper to run.
Most smartphones released in the past 12 years have 4G or 5G, and some of them will have 2G - which isn't due to be switched off until 2033.
2G is cheap, and still good in remote areas. If you break your leg in the middle of the Peak District, you'll most likely be calling an ambulance via 2G.
If your smartphone does not support 2G or 4G, then you won't be able to make calls, send texts or use mobile data. It's time to sort out your long overdue upgrade.
2G is cheap, and still good in remote areas. If you break your leg in the middle of the Peak District, you'll most likely be calling an ambulance via 2G.
If your smartphone does not support 2G or 4G, then you won't be able to make calls, send texts or use mobile data. It's time to sort out your long overdue upgrade.
Basic phones will continue to run on 2G. Nothing to worry about there.
A quick Google Search will tell you what networks your phone runs.
Your provider will contact you if they think your device will be affected by the shutdown. If you have an up-to-date phone, you might need to do a software update at some point, but no further action will be required.
The networks are switching off at different times:
> Vodafone in early 2024. Lebara Mobile, Asda Mobile, Talk Mobile and VOXI use the Vodafone network.
> EE in early 2024. Co-op, 1p Mobile, Utility Warehouse, Ecotalk, Lycamobile, Plusnet and BT Mobile use the EE network.
> Three in late 2024. iD Mobile and Smarty, Freedompop and Superdrug Mobile use the Three network.
> O2 in 2025. Tesco Mobile, Giffgaff, Sky Mobile and Virgin Mobile use the O2 network.
Note: Three do not have a 2G network.
Also note that some other devices such as payment terminals and security systems use a SIM card. If running on 3G, you'll need to upgrade the system.
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