3G Switch off

[Simonashe]

I have just learned from the Martin Lewis Money Show that the 3G network ( whatever that actually means )  is ending soon. I'm getting old now and find understanding and dealing with all this tech stuff, really difficult !!

I only need to text on occasions and make a phone call. Nothing else. My current phone is a simple DORO 6520 and it is 3G. Will I still be able to text ad make a phone call  once the 3G thing is closed down or will I need to go though the hassle of getting a new phone ? Any advice of information would be greatly appreciated

Many thanks

Simon

[XRaySpeX]

@Simonashe : The 3G switch-off only affects data. You will still be able to make calls & texts.

[bristolian · Accepted solution]

The 3G switch-off doesn't only affect data, EE are totally switching the 3G network off by the end of 2024 - 3G phones will no longer get any 3G service once this is complete.

Any 3G phone also supports 2G, so when this is complete your phone will still get coverage from EE's 2G network. Basic data use is available, calls & texts will still continue and you are unlikely to notice any difference to this.

EE's 4G network has been the standard for several years now, and in many locations 4G service is now greater than 2G or 3G.

[XRaySpeX]

@bristolian : Yes, that's what I'm trying to say w/out going into the nitty-gritty complexities of it.

[Simonashe]

Many thanks bristolian !!!

Simon

[michael271]

Further to that: One phone in my family has highest connection speed of 3g. Is that a limitation of the phone or the SIM - and would upgrading the SIM enable 4g? If not, what actual difference will be noticed when it reverses to 2g - e.g. to receiving texts and calls. I assume it will still be able to receive WIFI. 

[James_B]

Hi @michael271,

Welcome to the EE Community. 🙂

To access 4G, you need a 4G plan and a 4G ready phone.

What type of phone is it? Which EE plan?

James

[bristolian]

"G" support, be it 2G, 3G, 4G or 5G, is part of a device manufacturing process.

WiFi is a connection between a mobile device & broadband router, the mobile network connection has no bearing on it.

[michael271]

Thanks James. So changing the SIM will not help. It's an old Microsoft phone that still works surprisingly well considering it's age. It is only used for email and texting from home, and sending and receiving calls and text on the move. No data. I just wanted to know how those limited facilities might be affected .

[James_B]

Do you know the model number of the phone and what type of plan the SIM is using @michael271?

If it's an old 3G plan, I would have expected you to have been contacted with information on how to switch to a 4G plan.

James