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Vodafone to Shut Down UK 3G Networks by Year’s End
Internet and phone service provider Vodafone will continue to shut down its 3G networks across the UK, with the goal of retiring the entire UK by the end of 2023.
In June, the company will switch off networks in Hull, Oxford and Greater London following a successful switch-off pilot in Plymouth and Basingstoke in February of this year. Before making its way through the rest of its regional roadmap.
The retirement of 3G is making way for faster 4G and 5G services. Andrea Dona, Vodafone’s UK chief network officer, says 3G is using old, outdated equipment and taking up valuable spectrum, which can be better used for 4G and 5G services.
The shift away from 3G will not make a significant impact, as the data traffic on 3G networks has dropped from more than 30% in 2016 to less than 4% this year according to the company. In addition, 2G which covers 99% of the population will remain available for calls and texts.
Shifting away from 3G also aligns with Vodafone’s goal of a net-zero UK operation by 2027, since 5G networks are far more energy efficient. One terabyte of data sent through a 5G network uses just 7% of the energy used to send the same amount of data through 3G, the company reports.
“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,” said Dona. “Now is the time to say goodbye to 3G and focus on the current benefits and future possibilities of our 4G and 5G networks.”
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Successful 3G network retirements have already taken place by Vodafone in Germany and Italy. Dona said that the UK arm of the company has learned valuable insight from their programmes, and will work with them to ensure a smooth UK transition.
In preparation for the shut down, Vodafone set up a digital skills helpline to support people in setting up their phone or tablet to work on 4G and 5G networks. The helpline can be reached at 0800 987 4110 and is available to call for free on any UK mobile or landline. The support system is open to anyone, Vodafone customer or not.
