We're switching off 3G in 2023
You may have seen in the news that all UK networks have committed to closing their 3G networks. Here at Vodafone, we'll be saying goodbye to 3G in 2023, so that we can focus on strengthening our newer 4G and 5G networks.
Say hello to better connections
Our 4G and 5G networks come with loads of great benefits, from faster internet speeds to improved call quality. If you currently rely on 3G, we don't want you to lose your connection, so over the next year we'll help you with additional support, handy FAQs and a customer service team ready to any answer questions you may have. There's plenty of time to make the move over to 4G or 5G and we'll be with you every step of the way.
What can I do now?
We won't be retiring our 3G network until 2023, but there are some steps you can take now to make saying goodbye easier.
Upgrade with Pay monthly
If your phone isn't compatible with 4G or WiFi Calling, and you're on a Pay monthly plan, you could consider upgrading your device from our wide range of options.
Need more help?
Why is 3G being retired?
Twenty years ago, 3G was ideal for the way we used phones and communicated. But since then, technology has continued to grow and improve, so now we can move on and focus on making our 4G and 5G networks even better.
By retiring 3G, we'll be able to repurpose our 3G bandwidth, meaning that our 4G and 5G networks will get a speed and capacity boost - so you'll be able to enjoy a better connection.
When will 3G be closing down?
Our 3G network won't be closing until 2023, so you've got lots of time to make the move over to our 4G and 5G networks.
Will I be contacted about 3G closing?
We'll be reaching out to everyone impacted by the 3G closure through text and email in the first six months of 2022. Don't worry though - we'll give you plenty of time to get a better connection and we'll be on-hand to help.
What will happen if I don't upgrade to 4G or 5G?
If you haven't made the switch to 4G or 5G by 2023, and you have a 3G phone, it'll switch over to our 2G network.
We'll do everything we can to make sure you benefit from the best possible connection. There's no need to worry about this change and over the next year we'll help you find the right solution with additional support and a customer service team ready to answer any questions you may have.
Will 2G be switched off too?
We'll be meeting the government's ambition to turn off our 2G service by 2033 - so we won't be retiring our 2G network anytime soon.
What are the benefits of switching to 4G?
By switching to a 4G phone, you'll be saying hello to a better connection. You'll be able to enjoy:
- Faster internet speeds
- Improved call quality
- WiFi Calling and texting - perfect for those out of the way places that don't get signal
- The benefit of our constant investment in our 4G network
I'm a vulnerable customer - what support will be available for me?
If you're registered as a vulnerable customer and need extra support, our dedicated team will be on hand to help - just call 191 free from your Vodafone mobile.
What's 4G Calling?
4G Calling, also known as VoLTE, lets you make seamless, high-quality phone calls, wherever you have a 4G network.
Plus, it won't affect your other data streaming. Carry on multi-tasking; watch videos, use apps, or do anything that uses data - all while enjoying better phone calls.
To benefit from 4G Calling, you'll need to have a compatible device and plan.
What is WiFi Calling?
WiFi Calling lets you make and receive calls over WiFi when there's poor mobile phone signal.
Find out how to set up WiFi Calling
There's no extra charge for using WiFi Calling. All calls you make with it use minutes from your allowance as usual.
Calls will automatically transfer between WiFi and mobile signals, so you won't get cut off.
It's also possible to send and receive texts over WiFi if your device supports it.
Check if you have a compatible device and find out more about WiFi Calling
