The UK is moving quickly away from old mobile networks. Major mobile operators like EE are planning to stop
2G services. They want to improve 4G and 5G networks. Ending 2G is a big step in how mobile communications
are changing. For many years, 2G
was key for voice calls and basic data services. This shows the important role it played over time.
This change matches the UK government’s plan to end 2G and 3G networks by 2033. This move will open up radio
spectrum bands for better technology. Here we will this text, we will look at EE’s plan for shutting down
2G, how it will affect users,
and ways to get ready for what is coming next.
Why is 2G Being Retired?
2G networks have given good connections for voice calls, text messages, and basic data services since the
1990s. Now, many people use 4G and 5G networks instead.
Because of this, the use of 2G has gone down a lot. Today, only a tiny proportion of people depend on 2G
services.
Key reasons for retiring 2G include:
Spectrum Reallocation: This means making radio spectrum bands available for new
technology like 5G. This technology offers faster mobile broadband speeds and helps support new uses
like the Internet of Things (IoT).
Reduced Power Consumption: New networks use less energy. This matches our goals for
sustainability.
Improved Network Performance: By moving resources from older phone networks to better
infrastructures, we can make mobile data speeds faster and more reliable for users.
EE’s 2G Switch-Off Strategy
EE, part of BT Group, has stopped its 3G network. Now, it is getting ready to slowly shut down its 2G
services. The company has said it will give additional support to help make this change easy for customers
who are affected.
Key Elements of EE’s Plan:
Targeted Engagement: EE will focus on finding mobile customers and businesses that
still use 2G. They will pay special attention to rural areas and specific cases like smart meters and
payment terminals.
New SIM and Device Upgrades: EE wants users with older mobile devices to upgrade to
new 4G or 5G models. Some customers could get new
devices for free or at a lower price.
Enhanced Mobile Coverage: EE is putting money into growing the 4G and 5G network
coverage. This will help reduce the chance of losing coverage during the change.
Impact on Mobile Customers
The switch-off will mainly impact people who use older mobile devices that only work with 2G. These users
include:
Emergency Services and Critical Applications: Devices that help with emergency calls in
remote areas may need upgrades. This will help keep connections reliable.
Smart Meters and IoT Devices: A lot of smart energy meters and IoT devices use 2G
networks. Upgrading these devices is important for them to keep working well.
Payment Terminals: Older payment terminals that depend on 2G must be replaced. New
models that work with 4G or newer standards are needed.
Support for Affected Customers
EE will provide complete help for customers affected by the 2G switch-off.
This support includes various services to assist those impacted.
Related Advice: Get tips on upgrading devices and picking new SIM cards to stay connected easily.
Roaming Experience Enhancements: For travellers, EE is making sure that losing 2G will not affect
international roaming services.
Additional Support for Rural Areas: EE aims to offer reliable services in rural areas. They want to make
sure communities with less infrastructure face fewer disruptions.
Broader Implications for UK Networks
The 2G switch-off is part of the UK’s plan to upgrade its phone networks. Major mobile
operators, like Virgin Media O2 and Vodafone, are getting rid of older
technologies too. Virgin Media has given a specific date for shutting down its 3G service in 2025. Vodafone
plans to end its 3G service by 2024.
Benefits of the Transition:
Faster Mobile Data: New networks make mobile broadband much quicker. They also support apps that use a
lot of data.
Enhanced Reliability: Updated systems offer steadier connections, even in remote areas.
Future-Proofing: Spending on 4G and 5G keeps the UK in the competition for new technologies, like
charging solutions for electric vehicles.
Mobile customers can get ready for the 2G switch-off by taking some simple steps:
Check Device Compatibility: Find out if your mobile phone or IoT device can use 4G or 5G.
Upgrade to a New Device: If your mobile device is old, talk to your mobile provider about getting an
upgrade.
Monitor Announcements: Keep updated on news and timelines from EE and other service providers.
Contact Customer Support: For any questions, get in touch with your mobile provider for help just for
you.
The Role of IoT and Emerging
Technologies
The end of 2G will allow new growth in the Internet of Things. This change will help areas like healthcare,
smart homes, and farming by providing better network coverage and allowing for improved data traffic
management. EE is working to switch smart
meters and similar devices to newer networks. This shows how important it is to have technologies that are
ready for the future.
Challenges and Considerations
The move to modern networks brings many perks, but it also has some challenges.
Loss of Coverage in Remote Areas: It’s important to keep good connections in hard-to-reach places.
Cost of Upgrading Devices: Customers might have to spend more when getting new devices to replace their
older mobile devices.
Support for Vulnerable Groups: Helping people who do not know much about technology is key. This support
can stop interruptions in service.
The Future of UK Networks
The UK is moving to better mobile networks to meet the needs of today’s people. Mobile operators are starting
to stop using old systems. Now, they are focused on providing new solutions. These solutions help with
digital voice calls and improve
mobile data
experiences. They also support green projects, such as large solar initiatives.
Correct as of 20 January 2025
FAQs About EE’s 2G Switch Off
Why is EE phasing out 2G?
EE is shutting down 2G. They are doing this to move the spectrum to 4G and 5G networks. These
newer networks provide better performance and efficiency.
Who will be affected by the 2G switch-off?
Users with older devices, smart meters, and payment terminals that still use 2G must upgrade
their equipment.
What support is available for affected customers?
EE is providing advice, upgrading devices, and giving additional support. This will help you have
a smooth transition.
Will the 2G switch-off impact emergency calls?
EE is trying to make sure that emergency services can stay connected. This will happen even in
remote areas.
How can I prepare for the switch-off?
Check if your device is compatible.
Upgrade it if needed.
Stay informed with updates from your mobile provider.
We use cookies to provide the best possible user experience and maintain a secure environment. Some cookies are essential for the proper functioning and security of our website, enabling core features like processing your comparison queries and accessing your rewards. We also employ optional cookies for advanced analytics, tracking, advertising, testing, and performance optimisation.
By clicking 'Accept All', you consent to our use of all cookies. If you click 'Reject All', we will only use the necessary cookies required for the site to function securely. For more control over your cookie preferences, click 'Let Me Choose' to customise which optional cookies you're comfortable with. To learn more about the specific types of cookies we use, please visit our comprehensive
Cookie Policy.
Manage your cookies preferences.
Please select and accept your cookie preferences:
These essential cookies ensure the proper functioning and security of the website and app. They enable core features and services without collecting personal information for tracking or advertising purposes.
These cookies provide insights into how customers interact with our website and app. The aggregated and anonymous data collected helps us understand the usage of our products and services, enabling us to identify areas for improvement and optimise your browsing experience.
These cookies help us present products, services and offers that are most relevant to you. We may use the data collected by these cookies to personalise the advertisements you see on our website and other platforms, ensuring a more tailored browsing experience.
These cookies allow our website and app to remember your preferences, such as your region, country, language, accessibility options, and other settings. By enabling these cookies, we can provide you with a more personalised and convenient browsing experience tailored to your specific needs.
These cookies are used when we advertise on social media platforms. They allow these platforms to recognise you as one of our users and display relevant ads to you on our behalf. When you use your social media account to log in to our services, these cookies may also be used by the platforms to collect information about your behaviour for personalised advertising purposes.