2G Switch Off: Why is this happening?

Click the infographic to download in full

The United Kingdom is currently undergoing a phased decommissioning of its 2G and 3G mobile network infrastructure. This transition is driven by several key factors:

• Spectrum Re-allocation:
  The radio frequency spectrum utilised by 2G and 3G networks is being re-allocated to facilitate the expansion and enhancement of 4G and 5G services.
• Infrastructure Modernisation:
  The maintenance of legacy 2G and 3G infrastructure presents increasing logistical and financial challenges. Newer network technologies offer improved performance and energy efficiency.
• Technological Advancement:
  The growing demand for high-bandwidth mobile data and advanced communication services necessitates the deployment of 4G and 5G networks, rendering older technologies increasingly obsolete.
• Energy Efficiency:
  Newer network technologies are more energy efficient, and this is a major driving factor in the switch over.

The decommissioning of 2G and 3G networks is a strategic move to optimise the UK's mobile network infrastructure, ensuring its capacity to support future technological advancements and evolving user demands.

Key Considerations:

• Ofcom is overseeing the switch-off to ensure minimal disruption.
• Mobile network operators are expected to provide support for vulnerable customers.
• It is very important to contact your mobile phone provider for the most up to date information regarding their switch off plans.
• The 3G network switch off is well under way, so if you have a 3G only device, that will also soon be obsolete.