FAQs

Q: Have all countries closed down their 2G and 3G networks?

Most countries still have operators offering a 2G or a 3G network in addition to a 4G or even a 5G network. However this is situation is very dynamic and in most countries Mobile Operators are in the process of shutting them down. It’s always best to check with your home mobile network as to which specific services you’ll be able to use.

Q: While roaming abroad will I still be able to call emergency numbers, if there are no 2G or 3G networks in the country I'm visiting?

Making an emergency call does not even require a sim card or a roaming agreement between your home network and the networks of the visited country. As long as your mobile device is compatible with the mobile networks in the visited country your phone has been designed such that even if you have no other services or your services have been disconnected by your service provider you’ll still be able to make emergency calls. All you need to do is make sure that when your travel your mobile device is 4G and VoLTE (Voice over a 4G network) compliant. Most mobile handsets manufactured after 2015 are, but its always best to check with your provider.

Q: How does the shut down of 2G/3G networks across the world impact my current roaming experience?

As is always the case new technology brings in changes to services and how we use them. e.g. when we use WiFi when travelling instead of roaming onto other mobile networks, we cannot make or receive calls or dial emergency numbers. Similarly as 2G and 3G networks are decommissioned, depending on your mobile device you may perceive a difference in your experience when in comes to making a voice call.

Q: What will be the impact of not closing down 2G/3G services?

The choice for Mobile Operators is simple: either provide the next generation of services, save and protect lives providing more security and advancing our society or simply carry on using critical spectrum required for this instead to continue to offer old 2G and 3G services severely compromising the roll out of 5G services.

Q: What are these next generation of services that 5G will be able to provide?

The benefits of moving to 5G are innumerable and will enable telecom companies to offer critical services to both customers and businesses. Amongst other applications this technology is set to revolutionised health services through connected health monitors, remote surgery, disaster relief, advanced warnings during accidents and emergencies.