Vodafone UK Announces 3G Network to Be Retired in 2023

The plan will phase out 3G network coverage and replace it with enhanced 4G and 5G services, meaning that customers in more areas of the UK will have more reliable connectivity over the Vodafone network.

After 17 years and nearly 500 billion minutes of calls, the decommissioning of the 3G network is a key part of Vodafone’s strategy to provide customers with the most reliable network experience. Today, less than 4 percent of data used on Vodafone’s network is transmitted using 3G, compared to more than 30 percent in 2016.

Vodafone will begin a communications campaign with customers today and will continue to share information, advice, and guidance with customers to ensure they can stay connected during the changes next year.

We are building the UK’s most reliable mobile network and focusing on the technologies that best connect our customers and have the least impact on the environment,” said Ahmed Essam, chief executive of Vodafone.

The 3G network has connected so many customers over the past 17 years, but the future is 4G and 5G. we will focus on delivering a faster, more reliable mobile experience for our customers and minimizing our environmental impact by eliminating network layers that use inefficient devices.

“As we begin to communicate with our customers today, our goal is to keep everyone connected, and we will make every effort to ensure that this is indeed the case.

During the campaign, we will be asking customers to not only make sure their phones support 4G and 4G calling but also to check on friends and family. Some people don’t have confidence in technology and we want to make sure everyone gets the help they need so that no one is left behind.

The retirement of Vodafone’s 3G network is also an important part of the strategy to achieve net-zero emissions by 2027, with modern 5G networks more than ten times more energy-efficient than older 3G equipment.

To ensure customers across the UK are aware of what is happening and how to stay connected, Vodafone is launching a year-long communications campaign to help those who may need extra support.

As part of the campaign, Vodafone will encourage its more tech-savvy customers to get in touch with friends and family. Vodafone is also working with the Good Things Foundation and other third parties to ensure that the campaign reaches the most vulnerable consumers.

Helen Milner OBE, Group Chief Executive of the Good Things Foundation, said: “We are supporting Vodafone through this important campaign to ensure that every consumer can stay connected during a time of change. Access to digital connectivity is vital, especially for the most vulnerable in our society.

As the 3G network moves away, people are at risk of being disconnected, locked in, and left behind. That’s why we’re delighted to be working with Vodafone to ensure as many people as possible continue to have the essential digital access they need.

The pandemic demonstrates the importance of technology that keeps people connected. Healthcare, education, and the economy all depend on people across the UK having a reliable data connection. For every Vodafone customer, the transition to 4G and 5G is an important part of ensuring everyone has the digital access they need.