January 14th 2025.
At the bottom of this page, you will find a complete list of phones that will be affected by the upcoming switch-off. If you are someone who uses one of these phones, then you may soon lose access to mobile internet. According to Virgin Media O2, this switch-off is expected to happen within the next three months.
The company has already started contacting customers who will be affected by this change. They are making sure that these customers are aware of the situation and have enough time to make the necessary arrangements. This switch-off primarily affects people who still use older smartphones, which rely on 3G. So, if you have been experiencing difficulties in updating your apps recently, then this could be the reason behind it.
The government has announced plans to phase out all 3G connectivity by 2033. This is being done to focus on providing better connectivity for 4G, 5G, and even 6G in the future. As part of this plan, networks are gradually removing their support for 3G. For some, this will take effect as early as April. While this may only affect a small portion of customers, it could still impact hundreds of thousands of people across the country. This is because 3% of network data is still running on 3G.
However, it is important to note that the entire country will not lose access to mobile internet at the same time. The network providers are taking steps to troubleshoot any potential issues before completely pulling the plug. The first area to lose access will be Durham. So, if you are an iPhone 5 user in Durham, you need to be aware of this switch-off.
Virgin Media O2 has stated, "While the majority of customers will not be affected by this switch-off, we have started directly contacting the small proportion of customers in the area who do not currently have a 4G or 5G device. They will need to upgrade to a 4G SIM and handset to continue using mobile data from April." To minimize the impact of this change, the company is offering free 4G handsets to "known vulnerable customers." Other customers without a 4G handset will be offered a new device at a reduced price.
So, does this switch-off affect you? Well, it could if you have been using the same phone for a long time. For example, if you still have a working iPhone 5, then you may be affected by this change. However, it is worth noting that the iPhone 5 was released in 2012, which is almost 13 years ago. Similarly, older Samsung Galaxy devices, such as the Galaxy Ace 4, will also lose access to mobile internet.
For those who are curious, we have also included a full list of devices that will not be compatible with 4G. This includes models from popular brands like Apple, Samsung, Sony, OnePlus, LG, Doro, Google, Xiaomi, OPPO, Huawei, Motorola, Nokia, and Alcatel. If your phone is more than ten years old, then it may be on this list. However, do keep in mind that this switch-off only affects mobile data. You will still be able to make calls and send SMS text messages.
Virgin Media O2 has also stated that they have already upgraded the 4G and 5G masts in Durham over the past year. They are also planning further improvements in 2025. It is also important to note that customers will still be able to use 2G for now, as this will not be switched off until later. This is because the 2G networks have been in use since the 1990s and are still used for essential functions like SMS, phone calls, and basic email capability. This transition will be more gradual to minimize any potential disruptions.
In conclusion, if you are someone who uses an older phone, then it may be time to consider upgrading to a 4G or 5G device. This will ensure that you do not lose access to mobile internet when the 3G network is phased out. However, if you are a "known vulnerable customer," then Virgin Media O2 has already taken steps to offer you a free 4G handset. For others, a new device will be available at a reduced price. For more information and to see if your device will be affected, please refer to the list below.
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