Following successful switch-off pilots across Plymouth and Basingstoke in February 2023, Vodafone UK has announced its plans to start switching off the remainder of its UK 3G network from June 2023.
The decision to switch-off 3G - which is in line with all UK mobile network operators – will see 3G coverage gradually phased out and replaced by strengthened 4G and 5G services, so customers across more parts of the UK can access more reliable connectivity. Vodafone’s 2G network, which currently covers over 99% of the UK population, will remain in place for calls and texts.
The retirement of Vodafone’s 3G network is also an important part of the strategy to reach Net Zero for its UK operation by 2027, with modern 5G networks being much more energy efficient. Sending a terabyte of data across the 5G network uses just 7% of the energy used to send the same amount of data across the 3G network.
The national shutdown will happen in phases throughout the remainder of 2023, starting in June with Hull, Oxford and Greater London before progressing across the South. The remainder of the UK will follow later in the year.
Vodafone has information available to make sure that consumers are aware of 3G switch off and have the information they need to prepare, as well as helping friends, family members and loved ones to do the same. This includes instructions on how to check if a mobile device is 4G-capable and how to carry out software upgrades where required. It also contains further information on services such as 4G Calling, which enables customers to make and receive calls over the 4G network*.
The Digital Skills Helpline
Vodafone has also partnered with charities, and other third parties, to support vulnerable customers and those needing extra support. This includes working with We Are Digital, a social impact organisation, to set up the Digital Skills Helpline, supported by specially trained advisors who can help callers who may need support in setting up a phone or tablet as well as building confidence when using the internet.
3G use has already dropped significantly, as most of Vodafone’s customers now use the 4G network. Currently less than 4% of data is used on our 3G network, in comparison to more than 30% in 2016.
Vodafone’s UK Chief Network Officer, Andrea Dona,
Our focus is to continue building the UK’s most reliable mobile network. To continue to do this, we need to ensure our technologies are fit for purpose.
