Switching off 2G and 3G mobile services

Mobile providers are switching off the 3G networks to make room for the more advanced 4G and 5G networks. 4G and 5G are said to 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 expects to switch-off by the end of 2024.
• O2 is planning to switch-off 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, Plusnet and BT Mobile use the EE network.
• iD Mobile and Smarty, Freedompop and Superdrug Mobile use the Three network.
• Tesco Mobile, Giffgaff, Sky Mobile and Virgin Mobile use the O2 network.

It’s hard to keep up with technology changes!