Old 3G Mobile Phones Face Cutoff as 5G Takes Over

Telecom companies are phasing out old 3G networks in favor of newer, faster 5G systems, which could leave owners of older mobile phones without service. Vodafone has already made the switch, leaving behind 3G in favor of more advanced 4G and 5G services.

Initially, 3G networks revolutionized the use of smartphones by providing internet access. However, with the shift to 5G, estimated to affect around 2 million people without adequate access, concerns arise regarding a digital divide.

MailOnline has even produced an interactive map highlighting areas with poor mobile phone signals, revealing significant gaps in coverage across the UK. Particularly, rural and deprived regions suffer the most from these ‘not spots,’ where almost one million people experience digital deprivation due to poor coverage.

Research indicates a correlation between rural, deprived areas and 5G “not spots,” with regions like East Anglia, Cumbria, and parts of Wales being among the worst affected. Such areas risk being economically and socially left behind, unable to fully utilize modern digital services like streaming or online gaming.

Vodafone aims to invest in the next-generation 5G Standalone network, promising higher speeds and reliability. The deployment of 5G technology could significantly boost productivity in various sectors, such as agriculture and retail, potentially saving millions of working hours annually.

However, there are concerns that, without adequate investment, the UK may lag behind other European countries in terms of technological infrastructure. Vodafone’s proposed merger with Three UK could accelerate the rollout of standalone 5G coverage, with a pledge to cover 99% of the population by 2034.

Government officials recognize the potential of 5G for businesses and emphasize the need to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in adopting new technologies. Ensuring widespread access to standalone 5G and other digital infrastructure is crucial for driving economic growth and innovation across the UK.