INTELLIGENT BRANDS // Mobile Technology
Vodafone UK announces 3G retirement in 2023
Vodafone will begin retiring its 3G network in 2023 as part of a network modernisation programme to improve the 4G and 5G experience for all customers . The programme , which will see 3G coverage gradually phased out and replaced by strengthened 4G and 5G services , will mean customers across more parts of the UK can access more reliable connectivity through the Vodafone network .
Retiring 3G – after 17 years and nearly 500 billion minutes of calls – is a key part of Vodafone ’ s strategy to give customers the most reliable network experience . Today , less than 4 % of the data used on Vodafone ’ s network travels on 3G , in comparison to more than 30 % in 2016 .
Vodafone will begin a campaign of communication to customers and will continue to share information , advice and guidance to customers to ensure they can stay connected during the change next year .
“ We ’ re building one of the UK ’ s most reliable mobile networks and focusing on the technologies that best connect our customers and have the least impact on the environment ,” said Ahmed Essam , Vodafone ’ s UK CEO . “ 3G has connected so many customers over the last 17 years , but the future is 4G and 5G .
“ We ’ re going to be focused on giving customers a faster and more reliable mobile experience and minimising our impact on the environment by taking away a layer of our network that uses inefficient equipment .
“ Our goal is for everyone to stay connected and we ’ ll be doing everything we can to make sure that ’ s the case . During the campaign , we ’ ll be asking customers not just to make sure that their phone supports 4G and 4G calling , but also to check in on friends and family .” The retirement of Vodafone ’ s 3G network is also an important part of the strategy to reach net zero by 2027 , with modern 5G networks more than 10-times as energy efficient as old 3G equipment .
To ensure customers across the UK understand what is happening and how they can stay connected , Vodafone is initiating a year-long communications campaign to help those who may need additional support . As part of the campaign , Vodafone will encourage its more techsavvy customers to check in on friends and family . Vodafone is also partnering with The Good Things Foundation and other third parties to ensure the campaign reaches the most vulnerable consumers . p
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