Like other networks in the UK and abroad, we're switching off our 3G network so that we can focus on our faster, more reliable and more energy-efficient 4G and 5G networks.
We'll start phasing it out in 2025. This page has all the information you'll need, but in a nutshell, if you don't have a phone with 4G calling capability you’ll need to upgrade your device soon.
Why are you switching off 3G?
3G has been superseded by 4G and 5G networks over recent years, with the 3G network carrying less and less traffic. By focusing our investment on 4G and 5G, we’ll be able to further expand and upgrade services. And it means you’ll be able to benefit from quicker download speeds and higher quality voice calls.
The programme also contributes to our ambitious sustainability goals, due to 4G and 5G being significantly more energy-efficient. While 3G accounts for less than 4% of data used on our network, it accounts for 11% of our total energy consumption. 4G and 5G, which account for 96% of mobile network data traffic, are 10 times more efficient.
The other UK network operators are all planning to switch off 3G too. Some are already underway with their 3G switch off programmes. As per our press statement released on 3 August 2023, we’ll begin to switch off 3G in 2025. This is also happening in other countries across the world – for example, 3G has already been switched off in the US.
When are O2 switching off 3G?
Our full 3G switch off won’t start until 2025 – so nothing will change for you right now. We’ll carry out some small trials throughout 2024 and will get in touch with more information closer to the time.
How are you getting me ready for the 3G switch off?
Most of our customers already have access to 4G services and won't need to take any action. If you don't have a 4G or 5G-ready phone, you’ll need to upgrade your device.
How can I check to see if my device is ready?
If you are unsure if your device is ready for our 3G switch off, see our list of devices NOT compatible with 4G & WiFi Calling.
4G Calling Device List
Unsure if your device is ready for our 3G switch off? See our list of devices not compatible with 4G and WiFi Calling.
If your device isn’t compatible, sign in to My O2 for your upgrade options.
3G Switch off FAQs
Don’t worry, there’s no immediate impact just yet and you don’t need to take any action now. We'll contact you closer to when we begin to switch off 3G in 2025.
In the meantime, we have a wide range of great-value deals to suit all budgets across Pay Monthly and Pay As You Go. We also have lower cost refurbished devices available.
The 3G switch off won’t begin until 2025, so nothing will change for you yet. Our priority is to keep all customers connected and we’ll get in touch with impacted customers closer to when we begin to switch off 3G in 2025.
If you find it difficult to access any of our services due to a disability or personal situation, we can make adjustments to help you manage your account.
Get more support:
If you’re an O2 customer, head to our access for all page
If you’re a Virgin Media customer, visit our accessibility page
Providing seamless connectivity for all our customers, wherever they live, is our priority. That’s why we’ve been working to bridge the digital divide between urban and rural communities over recent years.
The Shared Rural Network (SRN), for example, is a joint initiative between mobile network operators and the UK government to deliver reliable 4G coverage to rural parts of the UK – with the aim of reaching 95% of the UK. We’ve already boosted 4G in numerous locations across the UK as part of our commitment to the SRN, and this will continue in the months and years ahead.
Yes, as these mobile providers use our network. Your provider will communicate with you closer to the switch off date in 2025.
No. Emergency services are a critical aspect of telecommunications infrastructure. All network operators take necessary measures to ensure their continuity.
No – we aren't switching off our 2G network. But we’ll be moving you away from our older 2G and 3G networks to provide you with a better mobile experience. At the same time, we’ll be expanding our 4G and 5G coverage across the UK.
In the future, you'll need to make sure that you have a 4G or 5G-ready device to continue making calls, sending messages and using data.
Please see our dedicated business page for further information.
