Around 2.7million people may not be able to access their mobile data as the leading phone networks start switching off the 3G network.
One in eight people of those affected said they don’t know if their phone is on a 4G or 5G network and 5% of people still use a 3G handset.
When the 3G network is turned off, which will start early this year for customers of Vodafone and EE, unless these mobiles are upgraded they could be left without the internet.
The mobile providers are switching off the 20-year old 3G network to replace it with the faster 4G and 5G networks. The switch off has been planned for over a year now and later in 2024 Three will switch off its 3G networks and O2 will follow in 2025.
The majority of phones already operate on the faster networks so the switch off will mainly impact people who use older devices. It will also only affect mobile data, so calls and texts will still be able to work on these phones.
43% unaware the switch off is happening
There is also lots of confusion around how the switch off will work, with 52% of customers saying they have received no communication about the change and 43% unaware that it’s happening, according to the research from Uswitch.
The numbers rise for older people, with 24% of those aged 75 or over not sure if their phone is 4G or 5G ready and 7% using a 3G handset. Almost a third of those with elderly relatives also told the comparison website they were worried their relatives may be cut off.
Special helplines and support have been set up for vulnerable customers and phone providers are set to contact all customers who may be affected over the next year, giving them advice about their options and how they can upgrade an existing handset.
But 19% of those who are unsure about the network of their phone said they would not be willing to upgrade their handset and 21% said they would carry on using their phone without the internet.
Important to make sure ‘no one is left behind’
Ernest Doku, telecoms expert at Uswitch.com, commented: “The 3G switch off will ultimately free up the ‘network spectrum’ for 4G and 5G – an important way to ensure our networks can cope with increasing demand as our digital lives continue to grow.
“While for the vast majority of phone users, this isn’t something to worry about – it’s important to be aware this change is coming, especially for those concerned about older relatives who may rely on older handsets.”
If you have an older handset and you’re unsure if it will work after the 3G switch off, you can contact your provider for help.
You may need to download the latest software to continue using your phone for the internet or you may need to upgrade your phone.
Doku adds: “Check your device settings and make sure your phone is 4G or 5G ready. If you’re already using a 4G or 5G handset – you may still need to ensure you have the latest software and security updates to make sure you’re using the correct network.
“It’s also worth checking in with any friends and family members who might have older devices. It might be time for an upgrade – and there’s plenty of support available for those getting set up with a new handset.
“Ultimately, these changes will help us to move towards a faster and more reliable service, but in the meantime, it’s important to make sure no one is left behind.”
