Overview

• The second phase of the 3G shutdown follows an April 2 pilot in Durham and precedes Torquay’s transition on August 4 with full UK completion by year-end.
• Known vulnerable customers are being offered free 4G-ready handsets while other users can access discounted device upgrades to retain mobile data.
• Subscribers who do not upgrade will lose mobile data but can still make voice calls and send text messages over remaining networks.
• Virtual network operators such as Tesco Mobile, giffgaff and Sky Mobile are notifying their customers of the upcoming service change.
• Virgin Media O2’s 3G network carries under 3% of its data traffic and the operator is partnering with charities and its O2 Recycle programme to support the move and uphold a zero-landfill policy.