O2 is urging users with older phones still on its network to upgrade promptly or risk losing access to online services like WhatsApp. The telecom giant, now a part of Virgin Media, is set to completely shut down its 3G signal this year, following similar moves by competitors EE and Vodafone.
While a faint 3G signal may linger in some areas in early 2026, O2 has confirmed that the network will soon be entirely deactivated. Individuals who have not transitioned to newer devices supporting 4G or 5G connectivity will face internet and app limitations when not connected to Wi-Fi.
Jeanie York, Chief Technology Officer at Virgin Media O2, emphasized the increased connectivity facilitated by investments in faster 4G and 5G networks, rendering 3G obsolete. She highlighted that other providers have already completed their transitions, with Virgin Media O2 set to finish its program in the coming weeks after successful trials in 2025.
O2 assured that only a small fraction of users would be affected by the change, and those still using 3G devices should have received upgrade notifications. It is advisable for individuals to switch to modern devices promptly to avoid disruptions. Although mobile data will cease, calling and texting capabilities will remain unaffected.
The shift away from 3G is motivated by its inability to meet current demands, with speeds around 6Mbps compared to over 100Mbps on 5G networks. Discontinuing 3G will free up bandwidth for more efficient 4G and 5G services.
York explained that 3G usage now accounts for less than 2% of mobile data traffic, leading to the decision to reallocate spectrum for enhanced 4G and 5G experiences. This reallocation aims to provide customers with faster data speeds, reliable streaming, and improved voice call quality.
In closing, York urged individuals still using 3G-only devices to upgrade promptly to avoid service disruptions as the network transition progresses.