A significant shift is on the horizon in the UK, prompting phone users to promptly assess their devices. Many leading mobile networks in Britain are phasing out their outdated 3G infrastructure to enhance the newer 4G and 5G technologies. This transition is crucial as individuals with older devices may soon lose access to essential data services while on the go.
EE and Vodafone have already completed the shutdown of their 3G networks. Presently, O2 is in the process of discontinuing its 3G signal and is advising its customers to conduct essential checks and contemplate upgrading to more contemporary smartphones.
In a communication obtained by Mirror Online, O2 stated: “We recently informed you that we will be decommissioning our 3G services. This process has already commenced, and we will be progressively phasing out the service nationwide by 2025.”
“Your current device may not be fully compatible with the UK’s 4G or 5G network. Following the shutdown, you may experience a decline in call quality and may lose access to mobile data, including internet browsing and messaging applications like WhatsApp.”
In addition to issuing the warning, O2 has also provided a link listing all the phones that could potentially lose connectivity soon. By entering their phone’s model number, customers can quickly verify if their device will remain operational in the future.
The transition is occurring due to the obsolescence of 3G in favor of more advanced 4G and 5G networks, which are handling decreasing amounts of traffic as consumers migrate to superior technology.
O2 affirms that by concentrating its investments on 4G and 5G, it can expand and enhance its services, while also becoming more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly.
One of the primary advantages of 4G and 5G is their significantly faster speeds compared to 3G, enabling users to effortlessly stream content and download files while away from fixed-line broadband. While 3G can achieve speeds around 30 Mbps, 5G can surpass 300 Mbps.
When will O2’s 3G shutdown occur? The full rollout will commence in April 2025, starting in Durham, and will progress across the UK throughout the remainder of the year.
