Three, iD Mobile’s network partner, is switching off their 3G network, so they can continue to invest in rolling out 4G and 5G. This article explains what the 3G switch off means for you, and what you need to do to continue using your services as normal:

The 3G switch off started in April in the Midlands area of the UK and some Welsh border towns. The national 3G switch off started in September across the country, phasing out its 3G network completely by the end of 2025.

If you have a 3G-only phone, you’ll be unable to use data, make calls, or send text messages on our network once 3G in your area is switched off.

If you have a 4G (VoLTE) Calling phone, but 4G is disabled within your phone settings, you’ll still be able to send texts and use your data, but you won’t be able to make calls.

If your phone is not compatible, we recommend upgrading to a phone that supports 4G calling (VoLTE).

4G calling (or VoLTE) is a free iD service that lets you call over a 4G network. Indoor blackspots can stop you from getting connected. But with 4G calling, that's not a problem. It gives you clearer calls in more places than ever before.

Check here to upgrade your phone online.

4G Calling (VoLTE) is another great iD feature on selected handsets. This free service lets you make and receive calls over our 4G Network.

We know that indoor blackspots can stop you getting connected. With 4G Calling, that's not a problem.

It gives you clearer calls, in more places than ever before.

You can see whether 4G or 5G coverage is available in your area using this handy network coverage checker.

In December 2021, the UK government announced 2G and 3G will be phased out by 2033. By switching off these networks, Three can focus funds and resources on new, more efficient 4G/5G tech. And that’ll benefit you even more.

Three are not the only network turning off 3G; other networks in the UK and abroad are phasing out their 3G networks too.

Your 3G phone will not be able to make calls, send messages or use data services once 3G in your area is turned off. It’s a great time to upgrade to a compatible 4G or 5G device.

We know it’s important having a phone that does exactly what you need it to. But if the phone you’re using isn’t 4G calling compatible, you won’t be able to use it on our network after 3G is switched off.

If you need emergency assistance in the UK, you can send an SMS to 999. The text will then be converted and passed to the appropriate emergency service. Your phone will need to be registered to the service beforehand. To do this, simply text the word 'register' to 999. You should then receive a confirmation by SMS, telling you a little more about the service. For more details, visit www.emergencysms.org.uk

Please be aware that this service may not always be available. So until you get a reply to your emergency message, you should try using other ways to contact the emergency services, such as dialling 18000 on a textphone, or asking someone to dial 999 for you. And don't forget that this service only works in the UK. So if you’re abroad, you’ll need to try other ways of contacting the local emergency services. If you’re in Europe, the number to call will be 112.

Please note: The UK Emergency Video Relay Service supports people who are deaf or those who have hearing loss. It allows them to make a video call to the emergency services. Find out more here.

After the 3G service is switched off, you can still make emergency calls as usual with a 4G-compatible phone. If your phone isn’t 4G-compatible, it will automatically connect to another available network that provides 2G service for the call. However, this doesn’t apply to emergency SMS, which can be extremely helpful for customers who are unable to use emergency calling. To continue using emergency SMS, you'll need to upgrade to a 4G-capable phone.