Brits must check phones or face having NO data as provider shuts down service – but you may be eligible for free mobile
ONE of the UK’s biggest network providers has confirmed the next locations where a key service will close down soon.
Affected Brits will be left with no data access on their phones once the switch off is complete – but you could be eligible for a free mobile upgrade.
The UK’s four main network providers have been gradually closing down their old 3G service.
O2 is the last of the networks to carry out the work, in line with an objective agreed with the Government in 2021.
But it will affect other providers that use O2’s network too, including Tesco Mobile, GiffGaff and Sky Mobile.
The move means more faster 4G and 5G services can be installed.
However, anyone with an older phone may not be able to use 4G and 5G.
Most more recent phones from the last ten years or so should be 4G capable – as such, the vast majority of Brits are expected to be unaffected.
But for those that are only 3G enabled, they will lose access to data when out and about, so no web browsing, WhatsApp or any other app that requires you to be online, unless you’re connected to a Wi-Fi connection.
Virgin Media O2 has already switched off 3G in the city of Durham but the company has now revealed where the service will disappear next.
Norwich, Telford and Guildford will be the next UK locations to have 3G withdrawn on July 16.
Torquay will follow on August 4.
O2 says it is directly contacting all customers across the UK who currently don’t have a 4G or 5G device to provide information and support ahead of a wider switch off beginning from August.
The switch off is due to be complete by the end of 2025.
Known vulnerable customers have already been offered a 4G-ready device free of charge.
All other customers who don’t currently have a 4G handset or SIM will be offered a new device at a reduced price.
“We’re switching off our 3G network to focus our attention and investment on upgrading faster and more reliable 4G and 5G networks that will give our customers a better overall experience,” said Jeanie York, Virgin Media O2’s Chief Technology Officer.
“Following the successful pilot in Durham earlier this month, we will now be switching off 3G in Norwich, Telford and Guildford in July, and Torquay in early August, with the rest of the UK to follow by the end of the year.
“While we know that the vast majority of our customers already have a 4G or 5G device and will not have to take any action, 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 handset, and calling those we know are vulnerable, to provide information about their next steps.
“It is important these customers upgrade their handsets in order to continue using mobile data after 3G is switched off.”
How to check if your phone is affected
There is a simple trick to check if phone is affected by the 3G switch off.
Go into your phone’s settings and search for Network Mode or Preferred Network.
If you see 4G or 5G listed then you are in the clear.