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Switching off 3G

Learn how saying goodbye to 3G affects you

Casey avatar
Written by Casey
Updated this week

Following guidance from the UK government for networks to turn off their 3G service to focus on 4G and 5G, like other networks, SMARTY (who is powered by Three) will no longer support 3G. This means better quality 4G and 5G service for all.

Our 3G network has now been phased out across most of the UK.

To use our network, you will need a compatible device. If you have a:

  • 3G device

  • A device listed here

  • 4G only device that doesn’t have the capability to make calls over 4G (also known as VoLTE)

We know that all the G’s can be confusing, so we’ve listed some FAQs you may find handy below.


FAQ's

When is 3G being switched off? 📅

Our 3G network has now been phased out across most of the UK.

The majority of our 3G network was switched off in September 2024. However, a few areas still rely on 3G where 4G isn't available yet. We're working to upgrade these sites by the end of 2025, after which 3G will no longer be available

You can check which coverage is available in your area by clicking here.

Why have Three switched off their 3G network?

In December 2021, the UK government announced that 2G and 3G will be phased out by 2033.

Aside from the government guidance to sunset 2G and 3G spectrum by 2033, 4G and 5G are newer, faster, and more efficient technologies, so switching off 3G allows us to focus our investments and spectrum resources which will benefit our customers.

I'm in a 3G-only area right now/was in a 3G area or have device that isn't compatible, what should I do? 🏡

If 3G has been is switched off in your area, you will need a compatible device to make calls, texts and use data.

If we thought you didn’t have a compatible device, we would have contacted you in advance before the 3G switch-off happened in your area to give you plenty of time to find a replacement.

How can I check if my device is compatible? 🔍

What is VoLTE?

Let's break it down 👇

Vo = Voice

LTE = Technical term for 4G

Put together they form VoLTE which means voice calls over 4G. If a device isn't VoLTE compatible, it'll drop to 3G to carry the call.

VoLTE provides a better quality of voice call.

You’ll need a VoLTE-compatible device to enable you to make calls, texts and use data over the 4G network.

Some devices are 4G, but do not have VoLTE capability, meaning you'll need to upgrade to a VoLTE-compatible device to connect to the 4G VoLTE spectrum when 3G is turned off in your area.

This sounds very techy! So in short, your device will no longer have the connection that is required to continue using the network and you’ll benefit from a better connection on a 4G VoLTE compatible device.

My device isn't compatible, what do I need to do? 💭

If your current device is listed here and/or not 4G VoLTE-compatible, you’ll need to upgrade to one that has the ability to use our network.

If we thought you didn’t have a compatible device before September 2024, we would have contacted you in advance before the 3G switch-off happened in your area to give you plenty of time to find a replacement.

I can't afford to upgrade right now, what should I do?

We understand that purchasing a new device isn't always an option.

If you received communication that your area would be impacted and chose not to upgrade, you might still be able to use your handset in certain 3G areas where 4G isn't yet available. However, you won't be able to stay connected in most parts of the UK, where 3G is no longer available.

If you're looking to upgrade, there are many ways to do this sustainably. For example, SMARTY is partnered with Reboxed®, where you can benefit from exclusive SMARTY customer discounts on a refurbished phone.

Our friends at Three also offer device and airtime bundles and are giving SMARTY customers up to 20% off selected 24-month Airtime plans when you sign up to pay for your new phone with Three over 12, 24 or 36 months at 0% APR. Shop here.

You can also buy low-cost, SIM-free compatible devices at most online and high-street tech retailers, just remember, it needs to be unlocked, a minimum of 4G-VoLTE compatible and not listed here.

What will happen if I don't have a compatible device?

We won’t support any device that only relies on 3G for data, calls or texts entirely after 2025, so you won’t be able to get connected.

Why can't I stay on 3G?

On 8 December 2021, the Government announced that all public 2G and 3G networks will be switched off by 2033 at the latest. However, it encouraged operators to switch off their networks, particularly 3G networks, earlier than this date.

The device I have is suitable for my accessibility needs, what should I do?

We understand how important your device is for your needs. If your current device isn’t compatible, we’ll be happy to discuss devices that could suit your needs.

Our dedicated Accessibility Team are on hand to help with any specific queries you might have.

If I change my phone, will I need a new SIM? 📏

Our SIMs are sent as a trio, so you can pop out the size you need. Most new devices take Nano SIMs. See here for more info on SIM sizing.

I use my SIM in a broadband device, does this impact me?

If you have a 3G data-only Mobile Broadband device, it may still be usable in some areas until 4G becomes available and 3G is switched off. However, as it will no longer be fully supported after 2025, we recommend upgrading your device.

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