A POPULAR UK mobile provider has announced the imminent shut down of its 3G services this year.
Customers using an older mobile phone have been urged to upgrade their tech in order to not lose access to mobile internet.
Within in the next few weeks, the UK’s biggest mobile phone provider O2, which is now part of Virgin Media O2, will “fully shut down” their 3G network.
Other 4G and 5G services will continue to operate as normal.
This change will only effect customers who use 3G-only devices and they will have already received messages outlining upgrade options.
Delays in switching to a newer device with 4G and 5G technology could mean that customers will be left without web services.
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Only two per cent of O2’s mobile data usage is 3G as it can no longer meet the demands of modern technology.
Scrapping the service means O2 can reclaim radio spectrum on its wireless networks, allowing it to boost speed and improve 4G and 5G coverage.
Many other providers have also scrapped 3G access in the last few years including Vodafone, EE, and Three.
Numerous trials were carried out during 2025 to ensure the service will be successfully switched off.
Jeanie York, Chief Technology Officer at Virgin Media O2, said: “We’re now more connected than ever thanks to significant investment in faster, more reliable 4G and 5G networks.
“As a result, 3G has become a relic of a bygone era.
“Our 3G network has already been withdrawn across many parts of the UK, with the remaining areas set to follow shortly.
“Although a 3G signal may still appear in some locations briefly in early 2026, the network will soon be fully shut down.
“Anyone still using a 3G-only handset should upgrade as soon as possible.”
