Brits warned they could be left with no mobile data access as major network provider prepares to close service
Share:
MILLIONS of Brits have been warned to check their mobile device as they could lose access to data very soon. The change is coming to O2, but it will affect other operators that use the network too, including Tesco Mobile, GiffGaff and Sky Mobile. O2 is starting to switch off its 3G network this year in favour of faster 4G and 5G services.
![[O2 is the last big network to close 3G]](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/2gfy050-photo-illustration-o2-logo-878856042.jpg?strip=all&w=960){kind=logo}
Rivals Three, Vodafone and EE have already shutdown their 3G tech. For most people with a modern smartphone from the last few years it won't make any difference. But if you happen to own an older phone that's not 4G or 5G capable it means you will no longer be able to access data even though you're paying for it.
![[Older phones like the iPhone 4S are among the models affected]](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/dgabpm-apple-iphone-4s-mobile-730978180.jpg?strip=all&w=960)
It will still be possible to access the internet via Wi-Fi. Calls and texts will still be possible as 2G is staying put. One in twenty mobile customers are unaware if their phone is 4G or 5G ready, according to a USwitch poll of 2,000 O2, Tesco Mobile, GiffGaff and Sky Mobile users.
"The 3G switch-off, which began last year, is a crucial step to free up capacity for expanding 4G and 5G networks, offering significantly faster and more reliable connectivity than 3G," explains Ernest Doku, telecoms expert at Uswitch.com. "While the majority of customers do have a 4G or 5G compatible phone, there will still be a proportion of customers with older devices who will need to upgrade this year.
