14 January 2025

The first switch-off site in Durham will help to inform their wider withdrawal programme. The process also aims to free up radio spectrum so it can be used to further improve the network coverage and mobile broadband speeds of more modern 4G and 5G based networks, as well as future 6G services. The switch-off will also reduce the operators’ costs and power consumption.

O2 Virgin Media says that the ‘vast majority of customers’ will not have to take any action as a result of the switch off, and they’ve already started directly contacting the small proportion of customers in Durham who don’t currently have a 4G or 5G device to let them know that, from April, they will require a 4G SIM and handset to continue using mobile data.

As part of the company’s plan to support the small number of customers who will be impacted, known vulnerable customers have already been offered a 4G-ready device free of charge, helping them stay connected, while all other customers who don’t currently have a 4G handset or SIM will be offered a new device at a reduced price. Customers who don’t upgrade will find that their connections fall back to 2G.

“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, VMO2’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. We will continue to support our customers as we complete the switch off of our 3G network.”