O2 sets summer 2029 start for UK 2G switch-off

Virgin Media O2 will begin switching off its 2G network in summer 2029 as part of a broader mobile transformation plan. The operator plans to expand and upgrade its 4G and 5G networks, which it says will reduce energy consumption and deliver faster, more reliable service for customers.

VMO2 joins coordinated UK 2G phase-out timeline. BT/EE will start closing its 2G network from May 2029 while Vodafone will follow in spring 2030. All three operators signed a government 2G switch-off charter earlier this year committing to safe and effective transitions for vulnerable users, life-critical systems and critical national infrastructure.

The charter requires operators to announce end dates at least three years in advance and to verify reliable 4G or 5G coverage before shutting down 2G. They also agreed to encourage suppliers and customers to upgrade or mitigate 2G-dependent devices well ahead of the deadlines.

Legacy devices beyond old phones rely on 2G connectivity. The technology carries less than 0.5 percent of all data traffic on VMO2's mobile network and is already closed for international roaming. Many smart meters, telecare alarms, medical devices, payment terminals, security systems, enterprise equipment and other IoT hardware still depend on 2G as a low-power, cost-effective conduit for small data volumes.

2G networks first launched in Britain in 1992. O2 traces its roots to Cellnet, which introduced its digital GSM network in December 1993. The phase-out stems from 2021 plans by the previous UK government to end all 2G and 3G services by 2033; all major networks completed 3G shutdowns by the end of 2025.

Reallocating spectrum will support modern network priorities. VMO2 says removing 2G equipment and shifting spectrum to 4G and 5G will improve connectivity overall. Paolo Pescatore, founder of PP Foresight, described O2's 2029 date as an important marker that the switch-off is moving from theory to reality.

Earlier parliamentary scrutiny highlighted risks to millions of smart meters that could lose connectivity. Reader comments on prior coverage noted that some UK locations still lack reliable 4G signals, raising questions about coverage verification before shutdowns.