Vodafone has now switched off their 3G network across the UK. As VOXI is powered by Vodafone's mobile network, this means we've said goodbye to 3G too. This is so Vodafone can invest more in their 4G and 5G networks.
Vodafone’s 4G and 5G networks come with loads of great benefits, from faster internet speeds to improved call quality.
Every UK mobile network has committed to switching off their 3G network by 2033. This gives us a head start on reusing the radio frequencies used for 3G to help more customers get faster, more efficient 4G and 5G services. Our 2G network remains in place for calls and texts.
Switching off our 3G network also allows us to be much more energy efficient – sending a terabyte of data across the 5G network uses just 7% of the energy used to send the same amount of data across the 3G network.
Today, less than 4% of the data used on our network uses 3G, compared to more than 30% in 2016.
We plan to use the current 3G radio frequencies for our 4G and 5G networks, meaning stronger and more reliable connections in more places.
How can I get ready for the switch-off?
If you have a 4G or 5G-enabled device, you don't need to worry – just keep using your phone as you do today and enjoy the best possible connection.
If your current phone's not 4G-ready, we've got you covered - check out our great range of 4G and 5G phones, including refurbished devices.
If you don’t switch to a 4G or 5G device before the switch-off, you’ll connect to the 2G network – you’ll still be able to use your calls and texts, but you’ll get a much better connection on a 4G-enabled device. If you can't get 4G Calling on your phone, WiFi Calling is also an option!
Will 2G be switched off too?
No, the 2G network isn't being switched off. It currently covers over 99% of the UK population, and you can keep using it for calls and texts (you'll also default to 2G if you don't have a 4G-ready device when your local 3G is switched off)
What about coverage in rural locations?
Vodafone continues to invest across the UK to make sure customers benefit from the network wherever they work, live or visit. Switching off 3G means radio frequencies can be repurposed the to boost 4G and 5G services. The remaining network has also been strengthened – so where you previously had 3G, Vodafone hopes to replace it with 4G. Remember, our 2G (which covers 99% of the UK) will also remain for calls and texts.
Finally, Vodafone are also engaged in a number of programmes such as Shared Rural Network, where they're working with the government and the other UK networks to deliver reliable 4G coverage to rural parts of the UK.
