o2 to switch off its 3G service
Customers of the UK’s largest mobile network are being advised to update their devices or risk losing access to mobile internet. The warning follows O2’s announcement that it will switch off its 3G network later this year, describing the technology as a “relic of a bygone era.” The provider, now part of Virgin Media O2, confirmed that its 4G and 5G services will remain fully operational.
o2 said that currently the 3G network accounts for less than 2% of mobile data usage on its network. It was against this backdrop of declining usage that the industry and government agreed in 2021 that 3G networks would be withdrawn, allowing mobile spectrum to be reallocated to 4G and 5G services that give customers a better overall experience – for example through faster data speeds, more reliable streaming and higher quality voice calls.
In a statement on their site o2 said “We know that the majority of our customers, and those of giffgaff, Tesco Mobile and Sky Mobile which use our network, already have a 4G or 5G device and don’t have to take any action as a result of 3G being withdrawn. Our number one priority, however, is supporting those customers who do need to upgrade to a compatible device. That’s why we’ve been writing directly to all of these customers, offering heavy discounts on replacement phones and entirely free upgrades for those we know are vulnerable. Many have already taken advantage of these offers and are now benefitting from easy-to-use devices they can count on for years to come.
Our 3G network has already been withdrawn across many UK locations, with the final areas set to follow shortly. You may still see a 3G signal in some places for a short period in early 2026, but the network will soon be switched off entirely, so I’d like to take this opportunity to urge anybody who is still using a 3G-only handset to please visit your local store, or call us, to upgrade as soon as possible.
Anyone who doesn’t upgrade before 3G is switched off in their area will still be able to make calls and send text messages as they do today, but they won’t be able to use mobile data.”
I am one of the editors here at www.systemtek.co.uk I am a UK based technology professional, with an interest in computer security and telecoms.