EE customers have around five months until they are locked out of 3G services forever – when they may need to buy a new phone to use their data allowance.
While the network hasn’t unveiled an official date, EE has said it is planning to switch off its 3G network in early 2024.
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It forms part of an industry-wide effort to clear 3G frequencies from the deck to make room for stronger 4G and 5G services.
Three expect to switch off their own 3G services by the end of 2024.
While Vodafone announced in late July that it will also dismantle 3G services, starting in Glasgow by early 2024.
Will I be affected?
Around 5.5million people in the UK are estimated to be still using devices which rely on 2G or 3G services, according to Vodafone’s figures.
The decision to axe 3G will mostly affect people with older devices.
This is because these devices don’t have the in-built radio technology that is needed for 4G or 5G connection.
The devices that will be affected will have been released pre-2012, or before 4G was first introduced.
Can I still use my mobile data?
If your phone is only compatible with 2G and 3G, you will no longer be able to access most of your mobile data allowance.
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But you will still be able to use your usual texts and calls allowance.
You must upgrade your phone to a newer model that can connect to 4G or 5G if you want to use your mobile data.
Telecoms regulator Ofcom has offered advice for consumers on the switch-off on their website.
How do I know if my phone can access 4G?
The list of 3G smartphones still being used by EE‘s pay monthly customers over the last six month include:
- Doro 6520, Doro 6521, Doro 6620
- Apple iPhone 4S
- TCL 1C
- Nokia 301
- Apple iPhone 4
- Nokia C2-01
- HMD 3310
- Samsung Galaxy Ace
- Samsung Galaxy S3 Mini
- TCL Pixi 4
If you’re phone isn’t listed but you’re still curious, there is another way to check if your device can access 4G.
If you have an iPhone, simply follow these steps:
- Go to Settings > General > Cellular.
- Here if you see Enable 4G LTE option, your phone is 4G compatible.
- You can select this option to enable 4G.
For Android users, follow this:
- Go to Settings > Mobile Networks > Network Mode.
- Here you will see if your phone has the option of selecting a 4G/LTE mode.
- If the mode is listed, your phone is 4G enabled.
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