A MAJOR broadband provider will be closing down one of their services at the end of May.
Some customers were surprised to learn that their internet service would be retired.
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Mobile operator Three UK has notified users of its Relish Wireless service that the service will end on the 19th of May 2025.
The 4G based fixed wireless service has been in use since it was acquired from UK Broadband Limited in 2017.
They have never increased the monthly charge for the service which was priced at £25 per month for a 30Mbps+ internet connection.
Users received an email which reads: “We have previously contacted you about your current broadband service ending in May.
“Due to technical changes your current Home Broadband service will now end on 19 May 2025.
“Prior to this date you will notice loss of service from approximately 13-15 May 2025 due to a power outage.
“Providing a great service to our customers is important to us, so we would like to apologise in advance and acknowledge that this unavoidable situation isn’t ideal.”
Despite Three claiming to have notified customers in advance, some users claim they did not receive this and have had just two weeks’ notice after receiving the newest email.
Customers were told that they could leave their contract early without incurring termination charges.
The email also did not include guidance for alternative service options or available promotions.
In 2017, the service was used by an estimated 15,000 subscribers but slow speeds meant that its users have declined.
The closure affects an estimated 43 customers based in Swindon, Wiltshire according to Three UK.
It is part of the company’s plans to move to 5G, with remaining customers being upgraded to this service by the end of the month.
During this transition, customers could experience disrupted service.
As compensation for the ongoing issues, Three UK has offered three months free broadband, as well as offering to install a new antenna for affected residents.
In addition, they have spoken to Swindon Borough Council to try and minimise disruption.
Customers looking for an alternative service could consider their unlimited 5G Three Home Broadband Package.
This costs just £19 per month on a 24-month term, although it rises to £21 from April 2026 and then £23 from April 2027.
Included in this package are an Outdoor Hub, average download speeds of 150Mbps, and a 30-day money-back guarantee if download speeds are slower than expected.
However, some of the postcodes in Swindon do not currently seem to be covered by this service, leaving customers unsure of what to do.
Goodbye 3G, hello 5G
Analysis by Jamie Harris, Assistant Technology and Science Editor at The Sun
It’s the end of an era.
3G brought significantly faster mobile internet speeds enabling millions to do things like watching YouTube videos without needing a Wi-Fi connection.
But nothing lasts forever, and 3G has been overtaken by 4G and 5G too.
There will be concerns that vulnerable people could be left behind by the move.
Fortunately, the mobile networks have led schemes to upgrade people.
So definitely get in contact with O2 (or GiffGaff and Tesco Mobile) if you need support.
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