Major networks in the UK are beginning to phase-out their 3G services, which may have an impact on those who have stayed true to older devices.
It is being switched off to make room for a broader 5G network, as more people are getting devices that support the speedier services. The UK government has set a deadline of 2033 to phase out the older services, but most will have already scrapped 3G by 2025.
This will not affect most people who use smartphones, however if you have been using an older mobile phone which uses 3G, you may become unable to use mobile data.
The consumer experts at Which? found that Vodafone will begin switching 3G off in early 2023, with the whole network due to be switched off by December.
EE will also begin work to switch off their network this year, but it won't be gone entirely until early 2024, according to the consumer publication.
As for Three and its subsidies, the 3G network that it ran is expected to be fully closed down by late 2024.
If you use an older device that utilises a 3G network and are with 02, you may be in luck as it has not yet announced a date for closing down its 3G services.
These providers are considered to be the 'Big Four' and share networks with smaller providers. For example BT uses EE's network, Tesco Mobile uses 02's network and Virgin Mobile uses Vodafone's network.
While 3G networks are being switched off, other networks are expanding. EE has recently announced that they upgraded nearly 120 4G sites across Scotland last year, and to extend coverage to nearly 230 more rural areas.
Philip Jansen, Chief Executive of BT Group, said: "EE's 4G has expanded by 500 square miles over the past year and we continue to be the sole provider of mobile services in many areas of the UK."
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