3G mobile networks are now switched off. The 2G mobile networks are gradually being switched off over the next few years. Here’s what this means for you as a customer.
The UK’s mobile services currently use three different ‘generations’ of mobile technology: 2G, 4G and 5G.
Mobile providers are preparing to switch off their 2G networks, and this will affect customers on those networks using older mobile devices and services. If you have a 4G or 5G mobile device or service, this change is unlikely to affect you and may only require a software or settings update.
2G networks rely on older, less efficient technology
Mobile providers are switching off the 2G networks to make room for the more advanced 4G and 5G networks. 4G and 5G give customers better, faster and more reliable services.
2G will be switched off in coming years
All mobile network operators have confirmed to the Government that they will switch off 2G by 2033 at the latest, however, individual MNOs may decide to switch off services earlier than that deadline. All 2G-only devices will need to be upgraded to at least 4G.
Providers are switching off their networks at different times
Each mobile network operator is setting its own timetable for its 2G network switch-off.
- EE has announcedit will begin switching off its 2G network from May 2029.
- VodafoneThree has announcedit will switch off the Vodafone 2G network during 2030 (Three does not have a 2G network).
- In 2025 O2 started to work to move traffic away from its 2G network. It won’t be switching 2G off completely for several years. For example, it will continue to use it for carrying emergency calls in more remote areas without 4G. As part of these plans O2 began withdrawing access to its 2G network to inbound roaming services from 1 October 2025.
These are the main 2G 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 and BT Mobile use the EE network.
- Tesco Mobile, Giffgaff, and Sky Mobile use the O2 network.
2G switch-off timings for these providers will be the same as the network they are using.
Your provider will tell you if you’re affected
Your mobile provider will contact you to let you know if you are affected and what steps you need to take. You might also be able to check your device settings to see if it has 4G available – try checking under ‘mobile networks’ or ‘mobile data’.
If you have a newer device, you might not need to do anything
If you’re already using a newer 4G or 5G device, you shouldn’t need to do anything. Some 4G devices might still need a software or settings update to ensure any calls you make use the right network. Your provider will tell you if that’s the case and explain how to make the updates needed.
If you have an older device, it will need to be replaced
If you’re using an older device that doesn’t allow you to use 4G or 5G, you’ll need to get a new one. Again, your provider will tell you if that’s the case, so look out for any messages they send to you. They should give you lots of notice, so you have time to find the right device for you.
If you’re worried that you won’t be able to afford a new device, tell your provider. They might be able to offer additional support and help with identifying affordable options.
Customers using the EE, Vodafone, and O2 networks with an older device are currently still able to make calls and send text messages using 2G, but the 2G network was not designed to work for accessing data services, so customers with older devices are no longer able to access most of their mobile data services now that 3G is switched off (although where older devices can connect to Wi-Fi, customers can still use this to access data services).
Three doesn’t have a 2G network, so if you have an older device that doesn’t allow you to use 4G or 5G, you need to replace it to make calls, send text messages and access mobile data now that 3G is switched off.
Check in with any friends and family that you think might be affected by the changes too, to see if they need help in understanding what they need to do.
If you are buying a device, make sure it supports 4G
If you are buying a device, particularly from a third-party seller (such as online marketplaces or in a supermarket), check that it supports the 4G network. The information provided by the seller at the point of sale should tell you which networks (sometimes referred to as ‘technologies’) the device can use.
Other types of devices might be affected
Some other devices, such as care alarms, security alarms and payment terminals, might also use 2G networks. If you have a device like this, it might need to be upgraded to make sure it still works after the 2G networks are switched off. Check with your device supplier or service provider to find out if your device will be affected.
2G and 3G networks are also being switched off around the world
The 2G and 3G networks are gradually being switched off around the world. Each country has a different timetable for switch-off.
If you’re travelling to a country where the switch-off has already begun, it might affect your roaming experience. In some cases, you might not be able to make calls or access data unless you are connected to Wi-Fi (especially if you have an older phone). Speak to your provider before you leave the UK, and read our related advice on using your phone abroad.
More information
If you have any questions or concerns about 2G switch-off, please contact your mobile provider.
We have also published information on how we expect mobile providers to approach the switch-off.
In March 2026, the Government published a voluntary 2G switch-off charter, setting out commitments by mobile network operators to support a smooth transition away from 2G services.