Key takeaways
UK mobile networks are switching off their 3G networks. EE switched off 3G in August 2024. Vodafone completed its 3G switch-off in January 2024. Three UK completed switch-off in August 2024. O2 completed its 3G switch-off in 2024.
As of 2026, 3G is no longer available on the four major UK networks. 2G remains active on EE, O2 and Vodafone for voice calls and SMS in areas where 4G/5G coverage is limited.
If your phone or device uses only 3G and has no 4G capability, it will not be able to make calls or use mobile data on the major UK networks. You will need to upgrade to a 4G or 5G-capable device.
IoT devices, car emergency systems (eCall), some basic phones and older mobile broadband devices may be affected. Check with your device supplier if you are unsure.
Ofcom published guidance on the 3G switch-off in May 2026, noting that 2G remains available as a fallback for basic services on some networks.
Reviewed: June 2026Key facts
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Why 3G is being switched off
3G (third generation mobile technology) was introduced in the UK from 2003. It enabled mobile internet, video calls and faster data than 2G. However, 4G (introduced from 2012) and 5G (from 2019) provide significantly faster speeds and more efficient use of radio spectrum. Mobile networks are switching off 3G to free up the spectrum for 4G and 5G, improving coverage and speeds for the majority of users who already have 4G or 5G capable devices.
Ofcom supports the 3G switch-off as part of its strategy to improve UK mobile connectivity. The radio spectrum previously used for 3G is being reallocated to 4G and 5G services.
When did UK networks switch off 3G
| Network | 3G switch-off date | 2G status | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vodafone | January 2024 | Being retired | First major UK network to complete 3G switch-off |
| Three UK | August 2024 | No 2G network | Three UK has never operated 2G |
| EE | August 2024 | Retained for coverage | 2G remains for voice/SMS in rural areas |
| O2 | 2024 | Retained for coverage | 2G remains for IoT and rural coverage |
| Virtual networks (MVNOs) | Follow host network | Varies | Check with your MVNO which network they use |
What devices are affected
3G-only phones: handsets that only support 3G (and not 4G or 5G) cannot make calls or use data on the major UK networks. These are typically phones purchased before 2012. Check your phone's specifications -- if it lists only 3G (UMTS/WCDMA) and not 4G (LTE) or 5G (NR), it will not work on UK networks.
Some 4G and 5G phones use 3G as a fallback in poor coverage areas. These phones will still work -- they fall back to 2G rather than 3G in low-coverage situations. Only phones that cannot use 4G or 5G at all are affected.
IoT devices: some Internet of Things devices (smart meters, connected sensors, vehicle tracking devices) used 3G connectivity. These need to be upgraded by the device operator or supplier. As a consumer you may not be aware of 3G-connected devices in your home or car.
eCall systems: vehicles manufactured from 2018 onward are required to include eCall (automatic emergency call) systems. Many earlier eCall systems were designed for 3G. Vehicle manufacturers are responsible for ensuring eCall systems continue to work -- check with your vehicle manufacturer if your car has an eCall system and you are concerned about compatibility.
Mobile broadband dongles: older USB dongles and MiFi devices that only support 3G will not work. Replace with a 4G or 5G dongle.
What about 2G
2G (GSM) is being retained by EE, O2 and Vodafone as a fallback network for voice calls, SMS and IoT devices in areas where 4G/5G coverage is limited. Three UK has never operated a 2G network. 2G will eventually be retired too, but no firm UK-wide date has been set as of June 2026. Ofcom continues to monitor 2G usage before setting a retirement timeline.
What to do if you are affected
Check your phone: go to Settings > About Phone (Android) or Settings > General > About (iPhone) and check your network capabilities. If you see only 3G/UMTS/WCDMA with no 4G/LTE listing, you need to upgrade.
Upgrade to a 4G or 5G phone: modern smartphones all support 4G as a minimum. 4G-capable phones are widely available at all price points. You do not need a 5G phone to continue using mobile services -- 4G is sufficient.
IoT and connected devices: contact the device supplier or manufacturer to check whether your device needs an update or replacement. Smart meter upgrades are managed by energy suppliers. Vehicle eCall is managed by the manufacturer.
Related guides
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Kael Tripton Ltd is not regulated by the FCA and does not provide financial advice. Telecoms information is sourced from Ofcom, the UK communications regulator. Always verify current information at ofcom.org.uk.
Frequently asked questions
Has 3G been switched off in the UK?
Yes. All four major UK networks (EE, Vodafone, Three UK and O2) completed their 3G switch-offs in 2024. As of 2026, 3G is no longer available on any major UK network. 2G remains active on EE, O2 and Vodafone for basic voice calls, SMS and IoT services in areas with limited 4G/5G coverage.
Will my phone still work after the 3G switch-off?
If your phone supports 4G or 5G, it will continue to work normally -- 4G and 5G are unaffected by the 3G switch-off. If your phone only supports 3G and not 4G, it will not be able to make calls or use mobile data on the major UK networks. Check your phone's specifications.
How do I check if my phone is 3G-only?
On Android, go to Settings > About Phone and look for network technology. On iPhone, go to Settings > General > About. If your device lists only 3G/UMTS/WCDMA and not 4G/LTE, it is 3G-only and needs to be replaced. Modern smartphones all support 4G as a minimum.
What happens to 3G SIM cards?
Your SIM card is not the issue -- modern SIMs support multiple network generations. The issue is whether your handset or device can connect to 4G or 5G. A 3G-only handset with a modern SIM will still not connect after the 3G switch-off because the network infrastructure (not the SIM) has been retired.
Is 2G also being switched off?
Not yet. 2G is still active on EE, O2 and Vodafone. Three UK has never had a 2G network. No firm UK-wide 2G retirement date has been set as of June 2026. Ofcom is monitoring 2G usage before determining a timeline for eventual 2G retirement.
What about virtual network operators (MVNOs)?
MVNOs (such as giffgaff, SMARTY, Tesco Mobile, Sky Mobile) use the infrastructure of one of the four major networks. The 3G switch-off applies to their customers in the same way. Check which host network your MVNO uses -- giffgaff uses O2, SMARTY uses Three, Tesco Mobile uses O2, Sky Mobile uses O2.
What happens to my car's eCall system?
Vehicles from 2018 onward are required to include eCall automatic emergency call systems. Some earlier eCall systems used 3G. Vehicle manufacturers are responsible for ensuring eCall continues to work after the 3G switch-off. Contact your vehicle manufacturer or check their website for specific advice about your model.
Why are networks switching off 3G?
Switching off 3G frees up radio spectrum that can be reallocated to 4G and 5G, improving coverage and speeds for the majority of users. 3G is used by a small and declining proportion of devices. The spectrum is a limited resource and using it for 4G/5G provides better value for users overall. Ofcom supports the 3G switch-off as part of its strategy to improve UK mobile connectivity.
