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3G shutdown - affected areas

Everything you need to know

We’ll be phasing out our 3G network service gradually over the next 2 years and switching it off by the end of 2024.

Areas that will be affected soon:

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Please note this is not an exhaustive list, as many more areas will be switched off over the coming months.

Find out if your device is capable of recieving a 4G and or 5G signal.

If you bought your phone from us after 2016, it’s very likely you’ll have 4G Calling (also known as VoLTE) capability. In 2016 we became the first UK operator to use 4G for voice calls, giving you a better quality experience.

You can check your device compatibility and find out how to activate 4G Calling (if your device supports it) in our device support hub.

We expect to completely switch off 3G by the end of 2024, while slowly phasing it out in the lead up to 2024. So, now’s a good time for you to swap to a 4G Calling or 5G device, if you don’t already have one.

By the time our 3G switch-off happens (by the end of 2024), we’ll have enabled 4G in these areas, You can keep up to date on network improvements using our coverage checker.

3G will continue to be supported in most areas for a little while yet, and we’ll be in touch when we gradually phase it out. If you’re going to be impacted as a result of your device functionality it’s worth exploring your options now, rather than when the time comes. 

We understand how important your device is to you. If your current device isn’t 4G Calling compatible, it would be good to discuss the devices that will best suit your needs and are ready for the future of our network. Our Accessibility Team are here to help with any specific queries you might have.

On 8 December 2021, the Government announced that all public 2G and 3G networks will be switched off by 2033 at the latest. However, operators have been encouraged to switch off their networks — particularly 3G networks — earlier than this date.

We want to make sure we’re ready and ahead of the game, then we can free up as much investment as possible for our 4G and 5G network rollout. This will bring you better connectivity and the best possible mobile experience. 

After 2024, we won’t be able to support any device that only relies on 3G for data or calls. Unfortunately, you won’t be able to get connected.

If you have a 3G data- only Mobile Broadband device, it won’t be supported after 2024. So we recommend that you consider upgrading your device.

If you have a 4G and 5G data-only Home or Mobile Broadband device, you won’t need to do anything.