When is 3G Being Turned Off in the UK?
You might have heard that 3G (and 2G) networks are slowly being phased out in the UK. The mobile network operators have agreed with the UK government to switch off their 3G mobile networks to prioritise faster and more reliable 4G and 5G connectivity. Each MNO (O2, Three, EE and Vodafone) is switching off their 3G services according to their own timeline, but all MNOs are expected to have completed their switch-off by the end of 2025. Here’s an overview of when each MNO has or will switch off their 3G network:
- Virgin Media O2 started switching off its 3G network in April 2025 and is expected to finish by the end of the year.
- Three completed its 3G switch-off by the end of 2024.
- EE switched off its 3G network in the UK in January and February 2024.
- Vodafone completed its 3G switch-off in February 2024
Keep reading to learn more about the 3G switch-off in the UK.
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Is 3G Being Phased Out?
Yes, 3G (as well as 2G) mobile networks are being slowly phased out in the UK and in many countries around the world. 3G is the third generation of mobile network technology and has been around since 2003. Now that faster 4G and 5G networks are more commonplace, different mobile network providers will be gradually switching off their 3G networks. This process is being completed in conjunction with the UK government. The switch-off process was announced in 2021, and the first mobile networks started switching off their networks in 2024. Many mobile network providers are no longer offering 3G services.
Why is 3G Being Switched Off?
3G is being switched off, so there is more network capacity for more efficient 4G and 5G services. Freeing up capacity (or “spectrum”) will mean that 4G and 5G network coverage can be expanded, helping to reduce not-spots (areas without a reliable 4G or 5G connection).
Modern 4G and 5G networks offer faster speeds, more reliability and lower latency than older 3G networks – they’re also around 10 times more energy efficient. The 3G switch-off is also part of the UK government’s strategy to improve the resilience of UK communications networks. It will also make it easier for new 5G network suppliers to enter the UK market, because their technology will not need to be compatible with legacy 3G networks.
Who Will Be Affected By The 3G Switch-Off?
The 3G switch-off will primarily affect users of older mobile phones that are not compatible with newer 4G and 5G mobile networks, as well as businesses that rely on older legacy 3G devices and infrastructure.
Mobile Phone Users
If your mobile phone is unable to access 4G or 5G, you’ll need to rely on the much slower 2G network for calls and texts (unless you’re with Three which has never offered a 2G network), and you’ll no longer be able to access the internet (unless connected to WiFi). However, 2G is also being phased out in the UK and will be switched off fully by the end of 2033 (but mobile network providers can choose to switch it off before this deadline). If you use an older mobile phone, your network provider should contact you if you are affected by the switch-off to provide you with further guidance and information.
Businesses
Businesses that rely on legacy 3G devices will be directly affected by the switch-off and will need to assess their current devices, plan for any required upgrades and take steps to ensure the switch-off doesn’t negatively impact their business. This includes businesses that use older M2M (Machine-to-Machine) and IoT devices, such as payment terminals, security systems, vehicle trackers and remote monitoring systems. Those in remote or rural locations where 3G may have been the strongest and most reliable mobile signal will likely be affected the most.
Installing a mobile signal booster can be an effective solution for businesses that are struggling with a weak 4G or 5G signal, now that many operators have already switched off their 3G networks. Whilst boosters cannot receive the switched-off 3G signal, they can effectively boost 4G or 5G signals to make them much stronger and more reliable for businesses to use.
The 3G Switch-Off in the UK
All the mobile network operators (MNOs) in the UK (O2, Three, EE and Vodafone) have agreed on a timeline with the government for them to switch off their 3G networks. Many of the main mobile networks have already completed their 3G switch-off, and the process is expected to be completed by the end of 2025.
All the other mobile networks in the UK, such as Sky Mobile, GiffGaff and Tesco Mobile, use the networks built by one of the MNOs. So their switch-off timeline will depend on which network they use.
| MNO | 3G Switch-Off Date | Already Switched Off? | Other mobile networks affected |
| O2 | End of 2025 | No | Giffgaff, Tesco Mobile, Sky Mobile, Lycamobile |
| Three | End of 2024 | Yes | ASDA Mobile, VOXI,Lebara Mobile, Talkmobile |
| EE | February 2024 | Yes | BT Mobile, Plusnet Mobile, 1pMobile, Utility Warehouse |
| Vodafone | February 2024 | Yes | iD Mobile, SMARTY |
When Is O2 Switching Off 3G?
Virgin Media O2 is scheduled to switch off its 3G network in the UK by the end of 2025. The 3G switch-off process began in Durham in April 2025 and will continue across the UK before being completed by the end of the year.
When Did Three Switch Off 3G?
Three completed its 3G switch-off by the end of 2024. The switch-off was completed in stages throughout the year, and now Three does not offer any 3G services.
When Did EE Switch Off 3G?
EE switched off its 3G network in the UK in January and February 2024. EE does not offer any 3G services anymore.
When Did Vodafone Switch Off 3G?
Vodafone has already switched off its 3G network in the UK. The switch-off was completed in February 2024.
Is 3G Still Available in the UK?
3G is no longer widely available in the UK. This legacy network is in the process of being switched off by all major mobile network operators in conjunction with the UK government. Three, EE and Vodafone have already switched off their 3G networks, while Virgin Media O2 is planning to switch off its 3G network by the end of 2025.
Will 2G Also Be Switched Off?
Yes, 2G networks are also being switched off in the UK. The deadline that the government and mobile network operators have agreed upon is the end of 2033, but some operators may choose to switch off their mobile networks before this deadline. For example, O2 is planning to start moving traffic away from its 2G network in 2025, but will continue to support 2G networks for emergency calls in more remote locations without 4G access. None of the MNOs have yet set a date for when they will switch off their 2G networks completely.
High-Performance Mobile Phone Signal-Boosting Solutions by NetCov
At NetCov, we specialise in designing and installing high-quality signal-boosting systems for businesses. With 2G and 3G networks being switched off, businesses will no longer be able to rely on these legacy networks for a cellular connection or internet access. Although 4G and 5G networks are much faster than the older 2G and 3G networks, there are still problems with dead zones and low signal strength, particularly indoors. This means some businesses struggle to benefit from the fast speeds offered by 4G and 5G networks. The good news is that one of our signal boosting systems can ensure a high-quality signal throughout your business or commercial property
We have worked with a wide range of industries to help them utilise 4G and 5G technology, including manufacturing, healthcare and hospitality. Our expert team offer high-performance signal boosters that boost the signal of all UK networks, including Three, Vodafone, EE and O2. All our boosters are Ofcom-approved, so you can be sure your business is fully compliant with all UK legislation.
Contact our team today to find out more about what your business needs to do in preparation for the 3G switch-off or book your free consultation to get started.