Across Europe, the gradual phasing out of 3G and 2G networks has ignited a wave of transformation in the telecommunications industry. While these legacy networks are becoming obsolete in the face of advanced 4G and 5G technologies, many users remain heavily reliant on them; consequently, operators and regulators are navigating a complex balancing act between modernization and user accessibility.
A July 2024 report from the Global Mobile Suppliers Association revealed that over half of global 2G and 3G network shutdowns have occurred in Europe, underscoring the region’s pivotal role in this transition.
Europe’s Transition Away from Legacy Networks
Europe is a global leader in decommissioning outdated networks, with Nordic countries and the Netherlands leading the charge. In these markets, reliance on 3G and 2G is minimal, reflecting robust infrastructure investment in 4G and 5G. For instance, users in Norway, Finland, Denmark, and Sweden do not frequently use 2G or 3G connections.
In stark contrast, countries like Moldova, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Malta, and Albania still report significant dependence on 3G networks. Moldova leads the pack, with users spending 18.9% of their time on 2G or 3G networks—the highest proportion in Europe. In Albania, ONE network users spend 15.3% of their time on 3G networks, significantly more than users utilizing other operator networks in the country.
The divergence between markets highlights varying levels of readiness in sunsetting these technologies. Wealthier nations with robust digital ecosystems have made strides in replacing legacy systems, while others face infrastructure gaps, regulatory hurdles, and the challenge of accommodating users in rural or underserved areas.
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The UK’s Mixed Approach to 3G Shutdowns
The UK has been at the forefront of 3G shutdowns, with operators like Vodafone and EE leading the way. Vodafone’s abrupt 3G switch-off, however, revealed an unintended consequence: a rise in 2G usage. This was particularly pronounced because Vodafone users initially relied more heavily on 3G than those of EE.
Although transitioning to newer networks brings cost savings, spectrum efficiency, and energy benefits, abrupt changes can disrupt user connectivity. For Vodafone UK, this included drops in network availability and service quality for users without 4G-enabled devices. Such outcomes underscore the importance of phased transitions and consumer education to mitigate the impacts.
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The IoT Factor and Unique Challenges
An often-overlooked obstacle in phasing out 2G and 3G networks is their continued use in Internet of Things (IoT) applications. From smart meters to elevators, these networks underpin many business-critical operations. For instance, nearly half of France’s elevators rely on 2G or 3G for communication, prompting the French Elevator Federation to lobby for delayed shutdowns.
In addition to IoT challenges, a small number of legacy devices still rely on circuit-switched voice, which 4G and 5G cannot support without Voice over LTE (VoLTE). Shutting down both 2G and 3G networks without suitable replacements for such devices risks breaching regulatory obligations and alienating vulnerable users.
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Balancing Network Shutdowns Across Europe
Across the continent, the approach to legacy networks varies widely. In countries like Luxembourg and Greece, where 3G networks have already been retired, reliance on 2G persists. Luxembourg leads in 2G usage, with users spending 4.5% of their time on the network. This trend underscores the ongoing utility of 2G for basic communication in rural areas and its relatively low operational costs.
Meanwhile, Poland and Spain exemplify how reliance on 3G varies even within markets. In Poland, Plus users spend 16.8% of their time on 3G—significantly higher than Orange’s 5.4%. Similarly, Spain’s operators report 3G usage ranging from 9% on Yoigo networks to just 1.1% on Vodafone networks. These discrepancies highlight how operator strategies and investment levels impact user experiences.
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Lessons from Leading Markets
The Nordic countries and the Netherlands offer valuable insights into successful transitions. By prioritizing 4G and 5G deployment, these markets have minimized reliance on legacy networks. Their proactive approach—including banning the sale of 3G-only devices, withdrawing outdated plans, and educating users—serves as a model for other regions navigating this shift.
In addition to technical upgrades, collaboration among operators, regulators, and industry stakeholders is crucial. For example, governments can incentivize IoT device upgrades or extend support to vulnerable populations transitioning to modern networks.
For mobile operators, phasing out 3G and 2G is an essential step to secure a future dominated by high-speed, energy-efficient networks. Yet, the process remains fraught with challenges. Striking a balance between technological progress and user inclusivity will require careful planning, significant investment, and a commitment to minimizing disruptions.
As Europe continues to lead the way in this global transition, the lessons learned from its successes and setbacks will undoubtedly shape the roadmap for other regions still navigating their journey away from legacy networks. By prioritizing collaboration and user-centric strategies, the industry can achieve a future where every connection is faster, more reliable, and more sustainable.
