From August onwards, the 3G network will be switched off as we prepare to launch our new mobile network.
Most devices in use today, including modern smartphones and home devices, will continue to work normally. Only a small number of older devices, largely over 10 years old, rely on 3G for their fastest data connection.
Once the 3G network is switched off, these devices will fall back to slower 2G data, which is suitable for basic calls and texts but not for streaming or web browsing.
Some customers have 4G-capable devices but currently have 4G switched off in their settings.
This page explains why you should enable 4G and VoLTE, and how to check your device to maintain the best experience.
How your device may be affected and what you should do
Devices that support 4G or 5G
- These will continue to work as normal.
- To get the best experience, make sure your device is set to connect to 4G/5G and that VoLTE (4G Calling) is enabled where available.
Devices that support 3G (but not 4G)
- After 3G is switched off, these devices will still be able to make calls and send texts using 2G.
- Mobile data will also work on 2G, but speeds will be much slower and some apps may not perform well.
- You may wish to upgrade to a 4G or 5G device for a better experience.
Devices that only support 2G
- These will continue to support calls and texts.
- Mobile data will remain very limited and only suitable for basic use such as simple messaging.
How to enable VoLTE
iPhone (iOS)
Enable 4G (or 5G if available) and make sure Voice & Data isn't set to 3G.
- Open Settings
- Tap Mobile Data (or Cellular)
- Tap Mobile Data Options
- Tap Voice & Data
- Select 5G Auto (recommended) or 5G On
If 5G options don't appear, select 4G (LTE).
Samsung Galaxy (One UI)
Set network mode to Auto/LTE (or 5G if available), not 3G only.
- Open Settings
- Tap Connections
- Tap Mobile networks
- Tap Network mode (or Preferred network type)
- Select an option that includes 5G/LTE/3G/2G (auto connect)
- Restart the phone (optional but helps) and check you see 4G/LTE (or 5G) in the status bar
Google Pixel (Android)
Ensure your network type is set to 4G/LTE (or 5G if available) automatically.
- Open Settings
- Tap Network & Internet
- Tap SIMs (select your SIM if asked)
- Tap Preferred network type
- Choose 5G (or LTE) / Automatic
- Toggle Airplane mode on, then off to refresh the connection
Other Android devices (generic)
Set your device to automatically use 4G/LTE (or 5G if available) instead of 3G.
- Open Settings
- Tap Network & Internet / Connections / Mobile network
- Tap Mobile network / SIM / Preferred network type
- Choose an option that includes 5G or 4G/LTE and Auto/Preferred
- Examples: '5G/4G/3G/2G (Auto)', 'LTE/3G/2G', '4G preferred'
- Do not select 3G only
- Restart if the device does not connect immediately
Apple
Android
Why we encourage you to use VoLTE
Voice over LTE (VoLTE) allows your phone to make calls over the 4G network.
- Most modern devices already have VoLTE enabled. If it's not enabled, you may need to turn it on in your phone's settings to make voice calls over 4G/5G once 3G is switched off. Your internet data and apps will continue to work normally on 4G or 5G.
- To maintain reliable calls and fast internet on 4G (and future 5G), make sure VoLTE is switched on.
Most modern devices already have VoLTE enabled. If it isn't, you can turn it on in your phone settings.
Need help?
Our teams are ready to assist in-store, over the phone, or at home with a free visit from one of our Community Officers.
- Customer Service Centre: Call 0808 10 15 247 for assistance
- In-store: Pop in for help with devices or checking your network settings. Book an appointment
Following these steps will help your device continue to work reliably for calls, texts, and data, and be ready for 4G today and 5G when it launches.
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