CUSTOMERS are being warned that a long-running service ends tomorrow.
The move will leave some users with no data to go online and check apps such as WhatsApp or Instagram.
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The only way some O2 customers in parts of the UK will be able to have a normal service is if they have an up-to-date device or are connected to Wi-Fi.
Together with EE, Three and Vodaphone, O2 is one of the big four networks and the last to ditch its 3G service.
O2 customers have been warned for months that the shutdown is coming to some areas of the country tomorrow, Wednesday September 17.
After more than 20 years, the companies are phasing out 3G, which was a game-changer for smartphones when it was introduced in the UK in 20023.
It brought significantly faster mobile internet speeds enabling millions to watch YouTube videos without needing a Wi-Fi connection.
The move is designed to allow networks to focus on building a better 4G and 5G service and is part of an objective agreed with the government in 2021.
Shifting focus
The change tomorrow will also affect Tesco Mobile, GiffGaff and Sky Mobile, which rely on O2’s network technology.
It means O2 can focus its energy on improving 4G and rolling out even faster 5G to more places across the country.
The end of 3G won’t make much difference to the vast majority of users in the UK.
But some older handsets aren’t 4G or 5G capable, meaning the 3G shutdown will leave owners with no means of going online when out and about.
This will result in no internet and no access to popular apps like WhatsApp, Facebook and Instagram.
The City of Durham was the first place O2 ended 3G back in April, with Durham, Norwich, Telford, Guildford and Torquay following.
Now it’s the turn of Watford, which will lose 3G on Wednesday.
The changes should mean more faster connections, allowing O2 to focus its energy on improving 4G and rolling out even faster 5G to more places across the country.
Customers notified
As previously reported, Jeanie York, Virgin Media O2’s Chief Technology Officer, said the vast majority of customers already have a 4G or 5G handset.
She also said the company had written directly to those likely to be affected by the changes.
There will undoubtedly be concerns that vulnerable people could be left behind by the move.
Anyone who would like further information ahead of the switch is advised to contact O2.
Similarly, anyone using GiffGaff or Tesco Mobile can contact their provider for support.
Hung Up
The City of Durham was the first place O2 ended 3G back in April, with Durham, Norwich, Telford, Guildford and Torquay following.
Now it’s the turn of Watford, which will lose 3G on Wednesday.
The change tomorrow will also affect Tesco Mobile, GiffGaff and Sky Mobile, which rely on O2’s network technology.
