BT Group phases out 2G network amid push for 4G and 5G access

In early 2024, BT Group completed the nationwide shutdown of its 3G network in the UK. The telecommunications giant is now initiating the process to discontinue its 2G network, which will officially close by the year 2030. Over the coming months, BT will reach out to its EE business customers to inform them about the impending closure and encourage a transition to 4G and 5G services. This move forms part of a broader industry trend, with all major mobile networks agreeing to phase out 2G and 3G signals by 2033. Howard Watson, chief security and networks officer for BT Group, and Kerry Small, chief operating officer for BT Business, articulated in a communication to customers that mobile connectivity has significantly evolved since the introduction of 2G in the early 1990s. They emphasized that expectations for digital communications have transformed dramatically over the decades, reflecting the rapid advancement in smartphone technology and data usage. Current data carried over the 2G network accounts for only 0.1% of all data on BT's EE mobile network, highlighting the diminishing relevance of this older technology. In tandem with BT's 2G shutdown, Virgin Media O2 also announced plans to discontinue its 3G network, starting with the city of Durham in April 2025. These actions affect several mobile service providers that rely on O2's infrastructure, including Tesco Mobile and Giffgaff. As major networks like EE, Three, and Vodafone have previously shut down their 3G services, Virgin Media O2 remains the last significant provider to take this step. For customers using older devices, this transition could pose challenges, as many may need to upgrade to newer models that support 4G or 5G for mobile data access. Virgin Media O2 indicated that it will communicate directly with affected customers, advising on the switches and the need to adapt to newer technologies.