One of the biggest mobile networks in the UK will imminently shutter its 3G signal nationwide.
It's true. If you haven't upgraded your phone in some time and rely on an O2 SIM card inside your handset, you could find yourself unable to check social media, check sort directions, or send WhatsApp messages.
The good news? You'll still be able to make calls and send text messages via O2's extensive network of masts across the UK.
However, if you're hoping to browse the internet, call someone via FaceTime or WhatsApp, get turn-by-turn directions via Google Maps, or anything else that requires mobile data — you're out of luck unless you're connected to Wi-Fi.
O2 has already switched off 3G across huge swathes of the UK, with the final few stretches of the UK set to follow soon. While you might still spot a 3G signal popping up briefly in early 2026, don't be fooled – it won't last long.
Like other rival mobile networks, including EE and Vodafone, have already outlined, the closure of all 3G services across the UK will free-up more spectrum to improve connectivity on 4G and 5G
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This final switch-off isn't coming out of nowhere.
O2 ran a series of trial programmes last year in places like Norwich, Telford, Guildford, Torquay and Watford to make sure everything would go smoothly. Scotland started seeing 3G services withdrawn from November, beginning in the east around Aberdeen and Dundee.
The numbers explain why the network is going. 3G now makes up less than two percent of all mobile data used on Virgin Media O2's network. That's a dramatic drop that led the UK Government and mobile industry to agree back in 2021 that it was time to retire the technology.
O2 isn't alone in this move either. Other major UK providers, including EE, Vodafone and Thre,e have already completed their own 3G shutdowns in recent years. So if you're on any of these rival networks, you already won't be able to connect to any mobile data services with a 3G-only device.
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So why is your 3G network being taken away? The simple answer is that the technology just can't keep up anymore. If you're using a 3G-only device, you're getting speeds of roughly 6Mbps at best. Compare that to 5G, which can deliver well over 100Mbps, and you'll see why it's time for an upgrade.
But there's another reason O2 is pulling the plug. Getting rid of 3G means the company can free up valuable radio spectrum and pump it into 4G and 5G instead. That translates to faster download speeds and better quality voice calls for everyone who's already made the switch.
Jeanie York, Chief Technology Officer at Virgin Media O2, described 3G as "a relic of a bygone era" and pointed out the benefits you'll get from moving to newer networks, including more reliable streaming and improved overall connectivity.
The company says only a small portion of its customers will be affected by the change. If you're one of them, you should have already received a message explaining your options for getting a newer device.
O2 has been reaching out directly to people still using older handsets to make sure they know what's happening. The firm is encouraging anyone who hasn't upgraded yet to pop into an O2 store or give them a ring to sort out a 4G or 5G phone. Making the move means you'll keep your mobile internet access and benefit from better voice call quality. You can also check your upgrade choices by signing into My O2 online.