2G and 3G Network Status Updates

Adam Hayes

COO

LinkedIn

As technology advances, mobile networks too need to evolve. Outdated networks that can no longer support the needs of IoT devices and applications make way for new, faster and more efficient networks. 2G and 3G sunsetting is where the industry is controlling the change to newer 4G, 5G and 6G networks by gradually switching off the 2G and 3G networks.

In this post I’ll cover:

• Why 2G and 3G networks are shutting down
• What the shutdown means for IoT connectivity
• How to future-proof your IoT connections
• 2G and 3G shutdown dates

We regularly publish the latest information about coverage changes made by MNOs. Please find the latest bulletin below (reviewed on 13 December 2024).

Find out how we’re supporting our customers to migrate their IoT devices and maintain connection in light of Virgin Media and O2’s planned changes to their 2G and 3G networks in 2025,

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Why are 2G and 3G networks shutting down?

Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) are shutting down 2G and 3G networks (sunsetting) for a number of reasons:

• Obsolete Technology: 2G and 3G networks are now outdated technologies and networks need modernisation. 4G, 5G and soon 6G are the next evolution of cellular networks and offer optimised options including faster speeds, greater capacity and operational efficiencies. 2G is over thirty years old now, while 3G is not far behind! These legacy networks were designed for basic data and voice usage. Technology today has soon outpaced their network capabilities and they are unable to support high-speed data applications like video streaming and emerging technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT).
• Spectrum Efficiency: Did you know there is only so much wireless spectrum to go around? That means that for newer networks to come into play, old ones must go. MNOS will reallocate 2G and 3G spectrums for the likes of 4G and 5G. This will improve the overall quality and capacity of their networks.
• Cost Savings: Maintaining multiple generations of networks is expensive for MNOs. A legacy network requires ongoing maintenance and support, which diverts funds and resources away from newer networks. It is possible for MNOs to reduce operating costs by retiring older networks.
• Customer Demand: 2G and 3G service demand is decreasing as more consumers and businesses adopt devices with faster data connections. In today’s fast-paced world, customers expect quick, reliable connections with minimum latency. It’s up to MNOs to deliver on these expectations and meet customer demand.
• Global Trend: 2G and 3G sunsetting is occurring around the globe, and impacting everyone. More regions are moving toward 4G and 5G technologies, limiting the ability of older devices and services to operate across borders smoothly.

What the 2G and 3G network shutdown means for IoT

2G and 3G sunsetting is impacting IoT in a profound way, especially for businesses that have active IoT estates which rely on these networks for sole connectivity.

Unless businesses can update their devices and move across to newer networks, their devices will be rendered obsolete when shutdowns occur. IoT devices by their very nature rely on connectivity for the transmission of data and insights. Without access to reliable coverage, the business case is destroyed.

For businesses looking to deploy an IoT initiative, it is wise to take the learnings that 2G and 3G shutdowns present and futureproof your device design, so that you are proactively prepared for any other future network landscape changes.

How to future-proof your IoT connections

You’ll have no doubt heard the saying “Don’t put all your eggs in one basket”. The same applies to IoT connectivity. The best way to future-proof your IoT business case is to design your device to connect to multiple connectivity types. This is called multiple radio access type connectivity – or multi-RAT for short.

How does this work in practice? Let’s give an example of one of our smart vending customers, Costa Express. The self-service vending machine offers Costa’s most popular hot and cold drinks for customers to buy on-the-go. Currently, Costa Express has more than 13,500 machines in 17 markets across the world.

Each machine has complete flexibility when it comes to connectivity with multiple fallback options enabled by Eseye’s Hera 604 IoT edge router. This means the vending machine can switch between 3G, 4G LTE and Wi-Fi connections depending on availability and network strength. Regardless of which connectivity type Costa Express uses, its smart vending machines will remain up and running. Because Costa Express has connectivity redundancy, its operations will remain unaffected when 3G is phased out in the markets it operates in.

When will 4G be phased out?

The good news is that 4G LTE is not going anywhere soon. 4G LTE is widely available and perfectly adequate for businesses and consumers, offering high bandwidth and high-speed connectivity with reduced latency. The likelihood is that as 5G gains momentum and scales, 4G LTE will be used less and less, and will eventually be phased out in 10 to 12 years’ time (2033-35).

When will 2G and 3G be phased out?

The mobile network operator landscape (MNO) is constantly changing and the situation varies from country to country. Below are the latest dates:

Use 2G or 3G?

Get your definitive IoT guide to handling 2G and 3G network shutdowns. Explore the alternative connectivity options available and find helpful advice that will help you to plan a smooth migration.

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Adam Hayes

COO

LinkedIn

Working at the forefront of developments in the telecommunications industry, Adam has both an in-depth knowledge and high-level experience in a range of operational, commercial and financial roles. Adam has a passion for early-stage businesses and has worked alongside the Eseye founders since 2011. Previous roles within telecommunications companies include Mercury, Cable and Wireless, Tele 2 and BlueStar Mobile. Adam’s current responsibilities include understanding and agreeing the commercial and regulatory arrangements with our carrier partners along with the coordination, synchronization and integration of operational and contractual activities. Adam is a Chartered Accountant and holds a degree in Engineering.

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