Users of older phones on the O2 network are urged to upgrade promptly as the service provider issues a final alert. Failure to do so could result in a loss of access to online services and applications like WhatsApp. O2, now under Virgin Media, will completely deactivate its 3G signal by the end of this year, following a trend set by other major companies such as EE and Vodafone.
Although a 3G signal may still be visible in certain areas early in 2026, O2 has stated that the network will soon be shut down entirely.
After the discontinuation of 3G, individuals without a more modern device supporting 4G or 5G connectivity will no longer be able to browse the internet or utilize apps like WhatsApp without a Wi-Fi connection.
Jeanie York, Chief Technology Officer at Virgin Media O2, emphasized the advancements in faster and more reliable 4G and 5G networks, making 3G technology outdated.
York further explained that other operators have already completed their 3G switch-offs, and Virgin Media O2 is on track to finalize its transition in the next few weeks following successful trials in 2025.
O2 assured that only a small segment of the population will be affected by the change, and users with 3G devices should have received upgrade notifications.
Customers still using 3G-only devices are encouraged to upgrade promptly to avoid disruptions. While mobile data access will cease without an upgrade, voice calls and text messaging services will remain unaffected.
York highlighted that the 3G network has been phased out in many locations across the UK, with the final areas scheduled for closure soon.
The move to deactivate 3G is driven by its inability to meet current demands, with speeds limited to around 6Mbps compared to over 100Mbps on 5G networks. Shutting down 3G will free up more capacity for 4G and 5G signals.
York elaborated that the 3G network now accounts for less than 2% of mobile data usage, leading to the industry decision, in collaboration with the government in 2021, to retire 3G networks and reallocate spectrum for enhanced 4G and 5G services, offering customers superior speed, streaming reliability, and voice call quality.
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