Ofcom has set out what it expects from mobile providers when they switch off their 2G and 3G networks.

Set to happen over the course of the next decade, the switch-off will pave the way for further proliferation of faster and more reliable 4G and 5G networks, Ofcom doesn’t have a direct say in the timing or process of the switch-off – this is left to the discretion of the operators.

Vodafone has said it will begin its phased 3G switch off later this month, with EE and Three expected to switch off their 3G networks in 2024.

While most people now own 4G-capable devices, users that own older devices – including mobile handsets, telecare alarms and payment terminals – will need to replace or update them.

Ofcom has set out four key expectations of providers for this process:

• Minimising coverage impact: EE, Three and Vodafone have committed to offering an equivalent level of coverage after the 3G and subsequent 2G switch-off, with areas currently reliant on these networks being upgraded to 4G ahead of switch-off. We expect Virgin Media O2 (which has yet to set a date for its 3G switch-off) to make a similar pledge. Customers should not experience a reduction in coverage as a result.
• Contractual information: where possible, mobile providers should explain in their contract information and summary when the service being purchased will no longer work because of the switch-off and that the customer will need a 4G-capable handset after that date.
• Customer communication and support: where customers need to replace or update their handset, we expect mobile operators to provide a minimum of three to six months’ notice of the steps they need to take, and to communicate clearly using a range of methods to raise awareness. Vulnerable customers will need to be given additional support – this might include offering discounts on replacement handsets.
• Other services that rely on mobile networks: the switch-off will also impact a range of other devices such as telecare alarms and payment terminals. These services will need a longer notice period. We expect mobile providers to make every effort to identify these services, helping to raise awareness so that relevant suppliers have sufficient time to update their devices and consumers do not lose access to vital services.

Selina Chadha, Ofcom’s Director of Connectivity, said: “In the next few years, older mobile networks will gradually be switched-off to make way for faster, more reliable services.

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“But some people will need help upgrading their devices during this process. So we’ve told mobile networks what they should do to make sure support is available to those who need it.”

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