Hi there, this is an image of a hand holding a black mobile phone with a white screen. On the screen is a blue WiFi symbol with 3G written underneath it. Across the front of the image is the word SHUTDOWN written in red capital letters.

3G Shutdown – What You Need To Know

What is the 3G Switch Off?

Over the next few years the 3G mobile networks are being gradually shut down, which could affect people who haven’t upgraded their phone in a while.  Here is a quick summary of what you need to know.

3G (stands for 3rd generation) networks have been around since 2001, but in December 2021, the Government and mobile providers agreed to phase out all 2G & 3G networks by 2033, with 3G being phased out by the end of 2024.  Some providers have already started to remove 3G networks across the country to make way for more advanced 4G and 5G networks.  The timescale will vary from provider to provider, Vodafone have already started switching off their 3G, whereas EE plans to make a start during 2024, Three will phase out 3G networks over the next 2 years, and O2 have not yet released any dates.

What does this mean for you?

If you already have a new device that uses 4G or 5G then you do not need to worry.

However, Vodafone, EE & O2 customers with phones that are only compatible with 2G or 3G networks may still be able to make normal calls or send texts (using 2G – which is also being phased out by 2033), but will no longer have to access mobile data services. Whatsapp, Google, Instagram, anything that requires a network connection will only be available while connected to a Wi-Fi network.

Three does not have a 2G network; they were the UK’s first commercial 100% 3G network, so Three customers using a phone that is not compatible with 4G or 5G will need to get the handset replaced.  This will ensure they can still make calls, send texts and access mobile data after 2024.

If you’re not really sure about your phone, contact your network provider and they may be able to help. Sometimes your phone will display the info on the screen in the top right hand corner (if you are not currently connected to a WiFi network).

Now is the time to lend a hand to all those technophobes in your family, especially the Grandparents!  Check their devices and make sure they’re compatible with 4G otherwise you may never hear from them again after 2024.