Millions of mobile phone users across the UK are being urged to check their devices after the country’s largest mobile network confirmed it will shut down a long-running service that has been in place for more than two decades.
The move marks a major turning point in the UK’s mobile infrastructure and could leave some phones unable to make calls, send texts, or access data unless customers act in time.
The provider behind the change is EE, which has confirmed plans to permanently switch off its 3G mobile network, ending a service first launched in the early 2000s.
What Is Being Shut Down
EE is closing its 3G network, a technology that once revolutionised mobile phones by enabling mobile internet, video calls, and app usage for the first time.
Key points:
- 3G has been operating in the UK for around 20 years
- The shutdown is permanent
- Older phones that rely on 3G will stop working properly
- Customers are being told to upgrade their device
The company says the move is necessary to free up capacity for newer technologies like 4G and 5G.
Why EE Is Switching Off 3G
According to the company, 3G now accounts for only a tiny fraction of mobile data usage, while occupying valuable radio spectrum.
An EE spokesperson said the shutdown will allow the network to:
- Improve 4G coverage and reliability
- Expand 5G services
- Reduce energy use and maintenance costs
- Modernise the UK’s mobile infrastructure
Industry experts say keeping older networks running is expensive and inefficient, especially when most customers now use smartphones capable of faster connections.
Who Will Be Affected
The impact depends on the type of phone you use.
Most at risk:
- Older smartphones released before widespread 4G support
- Basic mobile phones that rely on 3G for calls or texts
- Emergency backup phones kept in cars or drawers
- Some medical or alarm devices using mobile SIMs
Less likely to be affected:
- Smartphones that support 4G calling (VoLTE)
- Newer handsets released in the last 6–8 years
EE says it is contacting affected customers directly and advising them to upgrade.
What Happens If You Don’t Upgrade
Once the 3G service is switched off:
- Phones without 4G calling may lose call capability
- Mobile data may stop working entirely
- Text messages could fail
- Emergency calls may not connect reliably
This is why the provider is urging customers to act early rather than wait until the shutdown date.
What “Upgrade Now” Means
EE is advising customers to:
- Check if their phone supports 4G calling
- Upgrade to a compatible handset if it does not
- Ensure software is updated and 4G calling is enabled
In many cases, customers may already have a suitable phone but need to adjust settings.
How This Fits Into a Wider UK Change
EE is not alone. All major UK networks are gradually switching off older technologies.
The government-backed plan aims to:
- Retire 2G and 3G networks nationwide by the end of the decade
- Improve digital connectivity
- Support faster, more reliable services
However, EE is among the largest providers to complete the transition, meaning the impact is especially widespread.
Questions and Answers
1. Which service is being shut down?
EE’s 3G mobile network.
2. How long has 3G been running?
Around 20 years.
3. Is this happening immediately?
The shutdown is rolling out region by region.
4. Will my phone stop working completely?
If it relies on 3G, some or all functions may stop.
5. Can I still make emergency calls?
Only if your device supports 4G calling.
6. How do I know if my phone supports 4G calling?
Check your phone settings or model specifications.
7. Do I need a new SIM card?
Usually no, but some older SIMs may need replacing.
8. Will this cost customers money?
An upgrade may be required if your phone is incompatible.
9. Are pay-as-you-go users affected?
Yes, if they use a 3G-only device.
10. What about elderly users with basic phones?
Some may need a newer basic phone that supports 4G.
11. Is 2G also being shut down now?
No, 2G will remain available for longer.
12. Will coverage improve after the shutdown?
EE says 4G and 5G performance will improve.
13. Are other networks doing the same?
Yes, all UK networks plan similar shutdowns.
14. Should customers act now?
Yes. Waiting could result in sudden loss of service.
15. Where will EE contact customers?
By text, email, letter, or account notifications.
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