Overview
The retirement of 2G and 3G networks is an industry-wide transition as operators free up spectrum to support 4G, 5G, and LPWAN technologies.
In the UK, this process is well underway, all 3G networks will be switched off by the end of 2025, when O2 and Three complete their sunsets. After that, 2G will remain available for a limited time on some networks before being withdrawn entirely.
What’s Changing
After 2025:
2G will continue on Vodafone and EE for a limited period.
O2 will support 2G only when using local O2 UK SIMs or O2 Global / Telefónica Spain SIMs — inbound roaming on O2 UK 2G is not supported.
EE has announced that its 2G network will close in May 2029.
The UK Government has set 2033 as the final deadline for all 2G and 3G networks to be retired. Operators are expected to phase out remaining 2G services progressively toward the end of the decade.
How This May Affect You
If your devices or solutions rely on 2G or 3G connectivity for data, SMS, or voice, they will eventually lose service as these networks are retired.
This may impact:
Older IoT or M2M devices that only support 2G/3G
Legacy hardware or modules without VoLTE capability
Applications dependent on inbound roaming via O2 UK
Recommended Actions
To maintain service continuity, Wireless Logic recommends the following steps:
Audit your estate
Identify which devices and SIMs still rely on 2G or 3G connectivity.Plan your migration
Transition to 4G, 5G, or LPWAN-compatible devices and modules. Ensure new hardware supports VoLTE for voice.Phase upgrades early
Schedule migrations well before sunset dates to avoid a large-scale, high-cost replacement under time pressure.Review network coverage
Confirm your target networks and technologies offer adequate coverage across your deployments.
Technologies such as LTE Cat-1 BIS, LTE-M, and NB-IoT provide future-proof, energy-efficient connectivity options for IoT deployments.
Wireless Logic Support
Wireless Logic is committed to supporting you through this transition and beyond.
Our teams can assist with:
Network migration planning and risk assessment
Multi-network SIM solutions supporting 4G, LTE-M, and NB-IoT
Guidance on device certification and VoLTE enablement
Acting early helps ensure business continuity, reduce operational risk, and unlock the benefits of modern, efficient connectivity.