Mobile network Virgin Media O2 has issued a final, urgent warning to customers across the UK as it prepares to completely deactivate its 3G services. The long-planned shutdown, which follows similar moves by rivals EE and Vodafone, is now just weeks away.
Time is Running Out for 3G Handsets
The provider confirms that anyone still using a mobile phone that relies solely on 3G technology will soon lose the ability to access the internet, use apps like WhatsApp, or browse the web when not connected to Wi-Fi. The final phase of the nationwide switch-off is scheduled for completion in the coming weeks, following a series of pilot schemes run throughout 2025.
Jeanie York, Chief Technology Officer at Virgin Media O2, stated that the 3G network is now "a relic of a bygone era." She urged remaining users to act swiftly: "I’d like to take this opportunity to urge anybody who is still using a 3G-only handset to please visit your local store, or call us, to upgrade as soon as possible."
While the change will impact a small minority of users, O2 says those affected should have already received direct messages about upgrade options. Crucially, voice calls and traditional SMS text messaging will remain functional even after 3G is turned off, as these services will continue to operate over the older 2G network.
Why the 3G Network is Being Retired
The retirement of 3G is driven by dramatically declining usage and the need to modernise the UK's mobile infrastructure. The technology, which offers average data speeds of around 6Mbps, is now vastly outpaced by 4G and 5G networks capable of speeds exceeding 100Mbps.
"Today the 3G network accounts for less than 2% of mobile data usage on our network," explained Jeanie York. She highlighted that the industry and government agreed on the withdrawal back in 2021. This strategic move allows the valuable radio spectrum to be reallocated to enhance 4G and 5G services, leading to faster data, more reliable streaming, and higher quality voice calls for the vast majority of customers.
What Customers Need to Do Now
If you are unsure whether your device is affected, the key indicator is if it can connect to 4G or 5G networks. Most smartphones sold in the last decade are 4G-capable. Owners of very old handsets, typically purchased before 2014, are most at risk.
The advice from Virgin Media O2 is clear: do not wait. While some 3G signals may linger in isolated areas into early 2026, the network is being systematically shut down. Customers who delay upgrading will find their mobile data services abruptly discontinued. To avoid being caught out, users with ageing devices should contact O2 or visit a store to explore upgrading to a modern 4G or 5G phone.
