Why you need a phone that works with 4G or 5G

All 2G-only devices need upgrading to 4G and/or 5G capable devices to maintain connectivity. Most mobile devices in the UK are already 4G and/or 5G capable.

You’ll need a phone that works with 4G and/or 5G to:

• stay connected
• make voice calls
• use data

Modern phones can do this, but older ones may need replacing.

Steps to take to check if you phone will connect to 4G or 5G

1. Look for ‘4G’ or ‘5G’ on your phone screen when using mobile data services (not whilst using Wi-Fi)
   

2. Make sure 4G calling (sometimes known as VoLTE) or 5G calling is turned on in your phone settings. Most modern phones have this on by default.

Check with your mobile provider

You can also contact your mobile provider if you are unsure whether your mobile phone can connect to 4G or 5G. If you don’t know who your provider is, check your phone settings or your bill.

Your mobile network provider will always contact you directly if they need to get in touch with you. If you do not think it is your provider, hang up. Then call your provider back using a legitimate phone number.

If you are a customer with a mobile provider who does not operate a 2G network, such as Three, Superdrug Mobile and Smarty, you will not be impacted by the 2G switch-off.

Smart devices and personal equipment (e.g. medical pendants or fire alarms)

It’s not just mobile phones that use 2G. Some personal equipment can rely on 2G, such as:

• medical pendants (telecare alarms)
• lift alarms
• fire alarms

Check with your service provider to make sure it works with 4G or 5G. If it doesn’t, you’ll need to upgrade.

Further Information: provider websites

• EE: We’re saying goodbye to 2G - EE Business
• VodafoneThree to boost network performance for customers by phasing out 2G – Vodafone
• MobileUK: 2G/3G Switch Off
• VMO2: Our 2G switch-off explained