- O2’s 2G network is to be pulled from 2029 in line with the industry
- 4G and 5G networks are more secure and more efficient
- Some IoT and connected systems still use 2G
Virgin Media O2 (VMO2) has become the latest UK mobile operator to announce plans to shut down its legacy 2G networks, starting in 2029.
At the same time, VMO2 said not having to look after 2G networks will free up more resources to look after and improve 4G and 5G network capacity, speeds and reliability.
The company already began shutting down its 3G networks in 2025, with a national shutdown planned as early as this year, but 2G networks remained open in the meantime.
VMO2 will start pulling 2G networks from 2029
EE is also switching off its 2G networks from 2029, with VodafoneThree following suit in 2030.
While VMO2 promises to alert customers to help them identify affected devices and migrate to more modern networks, most smartphone users are unlikely to notice an impact because modern smartphones rely on 4G and 5G networks instead.
But IoT devices, smart meters, payment terminals, alarm systems and other critical infrastructure have traditionally used 2G networks.
“While most customers don’t need to take any action at all, some companies may need to start planning for this now,” explained CTO Jeanie York.
The industry-wide 2G shutdown ultimately falls under the government’s plans to strengthen telecoms security, following concerns over supply chain risks, cyber attacks and the overall security of critical national infrastructure.
VMO2 also revealed the environmental benefits of the shutdown. Although its 2G network carries only 0.5% of all VMO2 mobile network traffic, it accounts for more than 10% of the company’s total mobile device energy consumption. The company stated that its 4G and 5G networks are 10 times more efficient.
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