UK Mobile Operators Announce 2G Network Phase-Out: What It Means for Roaming Customers

EE’s 2G Switch-Off Timeline

EE has confirmed it will begin switching off its 2G network from May 2029, ahead of the UK government’s 2033 deadline. This follows on from EE’s 3G shutdown which was completed in early 2024.

Vodafone UK’s 2G Retirement Plan

Vodafone UK (VodafoneThree) has announced it will switch off its 2G network during 2030, three years ahead of the government’s deadline. This aligns with Vodafone’s broader European strategy to phase out all remaining 2G networks by the end of 2030.

Virgin Media O2’s 2G Network

Currently, Virgin Media O2 (VMO2) have given no update on their plans to shut down 2G. For now, they are focusing on closing their 3G network by the end of 2025. However, in October 2025, VMO2 stopped Roaming Access for non-O2 networks onto their 2G network. This is a clear indication that the network is working towards an eventual shutdown.

With EE’s switch-off beginning in May 2029 and Vodafone following in 2030, there is greater clarity, and substantial time to ensure continuity of services. While these announcements do offer assurance, customers should also begin planning towards future ready devices and technologies. At CSL, we’re committed to helping you ensure seamless connectivity for your devices throughout this transition period.

We understand that network changes and sunsets create concerns, particularly with specialist devices. For example, many IoT, Telecare and Lone Worker devices still rely on 2G for their data and voice services. Please be assured, CSL Group has successfully supported customers through previous network transitions, and we’re fully prepared to guide you through this one.

Our Upgrade Programme has helped hundreds of companies upgrade thousands of older solutions impacted by the 3G and PSTN Switch-Offs. Now we are helping companies future-proof their systems ahead of the 2G Shutdown. CSL has been supplying 4G devices since 2018 and today all our solutions are 4G-enabled as standard.

Our experience, combined with the sufficient transition timeline, will help ensure your existing connectivity remains uninterrupted. Providing ample time to work together to plan for and implement the changes.

To help this process, we are:

• Monitoring Developments: Tracking announcements from all UK and international operators to keep you informed
• Testing Compatibility: Ensuring our solutions work optimally with evolving network infrastructure
• Providing Guidance: Offering expert advice on device upgrades and configuration
• Maintaining Support: Our technical team remains available to address any concerns

While the transition from 2G to modern 4G and 5G networks will ultimately bring significant benefits: faster speeds, better reliability, enhanced security, and a foundation for future innovations, there are questions that will undoubtedly arise from these specific changes:

Q: Do I need to do anything right now?

A: If you’re using older 2G/3G capable-only devices, you need to begin planning your device strategy for when 2G is no longer available.

Q: Will my roaming services be disrupted?

A: No. The transition is carefully planned to avoid service disruption, and operators are providing extensive notice periods. At this time, we are not expecting any changes to roaming access to EE and Vodafone 2G services in the UK and will inform you if this changes.

Q: What about low power IoT devices and M2M connections?

A: Alternative technologies such as LTE-M, CAT-1bis, and NB-IoT are available for low power IoT applications. Contact our team for specific guidance on your IoT deployments.

Q: How will this affect rural coverage?

A: Operators are committed to maintaining and expanding coverage in rural areas through 4G networks before 2G is switched off. As we have seen in other countries, re-farming 2G and 3G spectrums has greatly improved 4G and 5G availability and access.

At CSL Group, we’re committed to keeping you connected as mobile networks evolve. Trust us to navigate these changes together, ensuring your business stays connected wherever you operate.

If you have questions about how the 2G phase-out affects your specific roaming requirements, our expert team is here to help.