BRITS are at risk of losing access to mobile data in just days, as a major company is shutting down a key service from April.
Mobile networks across the UK have been gradually getting rid of 3G networks, as users shift towards smartphones capable of using 4G and 5G.
2
2
This means that Britons who’s phones can only access 3G, will soon be left without data.
The latest mobile network giant to turn off it’s 3G networks is O2, but its customers won’t be the only ones that are affected.
Tesco Mobile, GiffGaff and Sky Mobile customers will also be left without 3G, as they rely on the same network.
O2 is the last of the big four UK networks to make this change, following an agreement made with the Government, EE, Vodafone and Three in 2021.
According to O2, less than three percent of all network today is carried by 3G at present, so most users will be unaffected by the change.
But those with older devices will find that they are unable to access services such as the internet or social media apps whilst out and about from April.
Affected users will still be able to make and receive calls and send texts, as well as being able to connect to Wifi services.
The 3G shutdown will begin in Durham city from April city.
O2 has assured that it has reached out to any 3G users in the area who will be affected by the change.
Vulnerable users who are known to the company have been contacted and offered a free upgrade to a newer handset.
Other affected users can get a new phone at a cheaper price.
“Switching off 3G will be an important milestone in the evolution of our network, enabling us to focus our attention and investment on faster and more reliable 4G and 5G networks that will deliver improved services for our customers,” said Jeanie York, Virgin Media O2’s Chief Technology Officer.
“By starting in just one location and by putting careful monitoring in place, we’ll minimise disruption to customers and ensure the success of this essential modernisation programme.
“While the vast majority of our customers already have a 4G or 5G device and will not be impacted, our priority is to provide support to those who need it. That is why we are reaching out directly to customers who do not have a 4G or 5G-ready device, and calling those we know are vulnerable, to help them prepare.
Which mobile networks are affected by the 3G switch off?
Mobile networks affected by O2’s 3G switch off:
-O2
– Tesco Mobile
– Sky Mobile
– GiffGaff
Networks which have already switched off 3G:
– Vodafone
– Asda Mobile
– Lebara
– Talk Mobile
– Voxi
– EE
– 1pMobile
– Ecotalk
– IQ Mobile
– Lycamobile
– Mozillion
– RWG Mobile
– Spusi
– Talk Home
– Utility Warehouse
– Your Co-op
– Three
– iD Mobile, Smarty
– Honest Mobile
– Superdrug
“We will continue to support our customers as we complete the switch off of our 3G network.”
How to check if you’re affected
O2, Tesco Mobile, GiffGaff and Sky Mobile customers who have purchased a mobile phone in the last 10 year are likely to be unaffected by the changes.
However, if you are still unsure, there is a simple trick you can use to check.
Head to the settings page on your mobile device and search for Network Mode of Preferred Network.
If you see 4G or 5G listed then your device will still have access to data following the changes.
