O2 confirms exact date of mobile network switch of | Tech News

Most adults within the UK own a mobile cellphone, and have finished so for thus long that they hardly ever have to fret about shedding mobile signal or service. However, the UK’s 4 mobile operators are at the moment within the course of of shutting down the nation’s ageing 3G networks, and Virgin Media O2 has as we speak issued the exact dates its clients in a number of cities might be affected by the switch-off.

Virgin Media O2, which because the identify suggests owns and manages the UK’s O2 mobile network, is reminding clients this week that O2’s 3G network is being turned off within the cities of Norwich, Telford and Guildford on July 16 and in Torquay on August 4, “as part of longer-term plans to deliver faster and more reliable 4G and 5G connectivity for customers.”

“3G services in those areas will be switched off in the coming weeks, and those who currently don’t have a 4G or 5G device must upgrade to a compatible handset in order to retain access to mobile data services,” Virgin Media O2 mentioned.

Vodafone, Three and EE have already accomplished the switch-off of their 3G networks, with O2 the final remaining mobile supplier nonetheless offering 3G connections to clients.

Though Norwich, Telford, Guildford and Torquay are the cities to subsequent be affected by the switch-off, by the tip of the yr O2 will utterly shut down its 3G network.

The nationwide switch-off is down to the very fact 3G networks have turn into outdated and used a lot much less than they as soon as had been. Three launched the UK’s first 3G network in 2003, which heralded the age of the smartphone due to improved mobile knowledge speeds that allowed for sooner web connections on mobile gadgets.

In 2025, these 3G networks have been largely changed with 4G and 5G network technology that’s mandatory for smartphones to stream video and run different data-hungry functions.

Most smartphones bought within the UK as we speak can entry 4G networks, with many additionally suitable with 5G technology. That means you might be unlikely to be affected by the O2 3G switch-off, as your smartphone will most likely have 4G or 5G compatibility.

But in case you have a very previous smartphone or less complicated mobile cellphone, it might solely have the ability to connect with 3G networks. Once 3G is absolutely turned off, this may imply you would no longer entry mobile knowledge companies in your machine. You can be unable to make use of apps akin to WhatsApp, Facebook and Google companies except your cellphone was linked to Wi-Fi.

“While the vast majority of customers will not need to take any action, the operator is directly contacting all customers across the UK who currently don’t have a 4G or 5G device to provide support,” a Virgin Media O2 spokesperson mentioned in an electronic mail.

The operator is offering “known vulnerable customers” a 4G machine free of charge. Other clients who don’t have a 4G cellphone or SIM will probably be provided one “at a reduced price”.

“Customers can go to their native O2 store for additional data and help, and they’re additionally reminded they’ll use O2 Recycle to responsibly and sustainably dispose of their previous handsets in exchange for money.”