Virgin Media O2 has announced it will begin switching off its 3G network in April, starting with Durham as the first affected area. The move is part of the company’s broader strategy to invest in faster, more reliable, and energy-efficient 4G and 5G networks.
The telecoms provider confirmed the shutdown on its website, stating:
"3G has been superseded by 4G and 5G networks over recent years, with the 3G network carrying less and less traffic. By focusing our investment on 4G and 5G, we’ll be able to further expand and upgrade services. And it means you’ll be able to benefit from quicker download speeds and higher quality voice calls."
Older Phones at Risk of Losing Internet Access
The switch-off will only affect older devices and SIM cards that do not support 4G or 5G connectivity. Those customers still using 3G-only phones may find themselves unable to access mobile internet, with limited ability to make calls or send texts via the slower 2G network.
Consumer website MoneySavingExpert.com, founded by Martin Lewis, warned:
"If you have a phone or SIM that only supports 3G, you’ll effectively no longer be able to use the internet once it’s fully switched off by your provider.
You’ll still be able to make calls and send text messages over 2G, though the quality of the call will likely be worse than it was on the 3G network."
Providers Affected by the 3G Shutdown
The change won’t just impact Virgin Media O2 customers. Other mobile providers that use O2’s infrastructure, such as:
- Giffgaff
- Sky Mobile
- Tesco Mobile
may also see service disruptions for users of outdated devices.
Check If Your Device Is Affected
To find out if your phone or SIM card will be impacted, Virgin Media O2 encourages users to visit its website and review the list of non-compatible devices. Here are some of the older models known to be affected:
Apple
- iPhone 1st Gen
- iPhone 3G / 3GS
- iPhone 4 / 5S
Samsung
- Samsung Galaxy Fame
- Galaxy Ace 3
- ZV60, Binou, BEAT S
Sony
- Xperia Z2, Xperia E
- Sony Ericsson WT13I, W705
LG
- LG Calisto, Pop, Prada, G1600
Motorola
- MOTO E, Motokey Social, EM30, C118V
- Nexus ONE
- Galaxy Nexus
Nokia
- Nokia 220, Lumia 925
- 106.1, 2330 Classic
For the full list of affected devices, visit Virgin Media O2’s official website.
What Should Customers Do?
Customers using older phones are strongly encouraged to upgrade to a 4G or 5G-compatible device before the switch-off to avoid losing connectivity. Virgin Media O2 is offering trade-in deals and upgrade offers, with some users eligible for over £1,000 when recycling old phones and tech.
Virgin Media O2’s 3G network switch-off is part of a UK-wide shift among mobile providers. EE and Vodafone have already begun phasing out 3G services as the country prepares for a fully digital, high-speed mobile future.
