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Virgin Media O2 to turn off 3G network nationwide

Virgin Media O2 will shut down its 3G services, impacting customers across the UK by year-end.

July 18, 2025 at 09:11 AM
blur UK's biggest mobile provider is shutting MORE services in just days leaving thousands of Brits without a working phone

Virgin Media O2 aims to enhance its services by shutting down 3G entirely.

UK mobile provider plans 3G shutdown affecting thousands of customers

Virgin Media O2 is set to turn off its 3G network, impacting numerous customers across the UK. The shutdown begins with areas such as Torquay and will continue nationwide by the end of the year. Other major providers like EE and Vodafone have already ceased their 3G services. This change is aimed at improving mobile experiences with faster and more reliable 4G and 5G networks. Virgin Media O2 is alerting those without compatible devices to upgrade to maintain mobile data access. Most customers are already using devices that support newer technologies, leaving only a minority potentially affected by the switch-off.

Key Takeaways

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Virgin Media O2 plans to disable 3G network nationwide by late 2023.
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Customers with 3G-only devices will lose data access after the shutdown.
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The move is intended to strengthen 4G and 5G services.
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Other major UK providers have already discontinued their 3G services.
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Most users already have compatible devices, limiting the impact.
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Virgin Media O2 is contacting vulnerable customers to assist with upgrades.

"We're switching off our 3G network to focus our attention and investment on upgrading faster and more reliable 4G and 5G networks."

Jeanie York, Chief Technology Officer of Virgin Media O2, outlines the reason for the service shutdown.

"While we know that the vast majority of our customers already have a 4G or 5G device, our priority is to provide support to those who need it."

Jeanie York addresses concerns for customers without modern devices as 3G is phased out.

The end of 3G networks symbolizes a significant shift in the telecommunications industry towards faster mobile technology. While the majority of users will adapt easily, the sudden cutoff poses risks for those still relying on older devices. Virgin Media O2's proactive outreach to affected customers is essential, but challenges remain on how quickly these individuals can upgrade. This transition underscores the fast pace of technological change and raises questions about digital inclusivity.

Highlights

  • The end of 3G raises new hurdles for unprepared users.
  • Moving forward means leaving some behind in the digital age.
  • 3G shutdown highlights the urgency for device upgrades.
  • Telecom evolution demands adaptation for all.

Risk of losing connectivity due to 3G shutdown

The rapid transition away from 3G networks potentially leaves users with outdated devices disconnected. This could affect vulnerable populations who may not be able to upgrade their handsets quickly enough.

The shift from 3G serves as a reminder of the technological evolution in the telecommunications sector.

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