- O2’s 2G networks to retire from 2029 in line with industry
- 4G and 5G networks are more secure and efficient
- Some IoT and connected systems still use 2G
Virgin Media O2 (VMO2) has become the latest UK mobile operator to announce plans to close its legacy 2G networks from 2029.
At the same time, VMO2 said that not having to take care of 2G networks will free up more resources to take care of and improve the capacity, speeds and reliability of 4G and 5G networks.
The company has already begun shutting down its 3G networks in 2025, with a national outage planned for this year, but 2G networks have remained open in the meantime.
VMO2 will begin withdrawing 2G networks from 2029
EE will also switch off its 2G networks from 2029, and VodafoneThree will do the same in 2030.
While VMO2 promises to warn 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.
But IoT devices, smart meters, payment terminals, alarm systems and other crucial infrastructure have traditionally used 2G networks.
“While most customers will not need to take any action, some businesses may need to start planning for this now,” explained Chief Technology Officer Jeanie York.
The industry-wide 2G shutdown ultimately falls within government plans to strengthen telecommunications 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 closure. Although its 2G networks only carry 0.5% of all VMO2 mobile network traffic, they account for more than 10% of the company’s total cell site power consumption. The company stated that its 4G and 5G networks are 10 times more efficient.
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