Withdrawal of 3G Mobile Network
Virgin Media O2 will start withdrawing its 3G mobile network in parts of Scotland from 5 November 2025. The move marks a significant step in the network’s broader plan to phase out older 3G technology and shift focus to faster, more efficient 4G and 5G services. The initial phase of the switch‑off will affect the east of Scotland, including areas such as Aberdeen and Dundee. Customers based in those locations will see 3G services gradually withdrawn. The company emphasises that many of its customers already use 4G or 5G capable devices and thus will not be impacted.
From an Active Digital perspective, we have already contacted all our customers still using 3G‑only phones or devices. If they haven’t already, we are encouraging users to upgrade to a 4G or 5G ready device and to ensure their SIM and handset are compatible. Customers should check whether their mobile handset is compatible with 4G or 5G networks. An easy check is to consider whether the phone ever shows “4G” or “5G” as the network indicator; if only “3G” appears, it will be time to upgrade. Those with older hardware which lack 4G SIM support are likely to be impacted.
The rationale for the switch‑off is both operational and environmental. The 3G network, first launched over two decades ago, now carries a tiny fraction of data traffic but still consumes a disproportionate amount of energy. By clearing the spectrum used for 3G services, Virgin Media O2 can reallocate those frequencies to 4G and 5G networks, enabling improved data speeds, better service reliability and lower energy consumption. Despite the upgrade benefits, customers who rely on older devices should pay attention. Once 3G is switched off in their region, mobile data will no longer be available on a 3G‑only handset. Voice calls and text messages may still work via 2G in some cases, but full internet access and many apps will be affected.
The company’s phasing plan states that the complete end of its 3G services across the UK is expected by the end of 2025. This places Virgin Media O2 somewhat later than other major UK network operators, which have already largely completed their 3G retirements. In Scotland, the launch of the 3G switch‑off comes amid continuing efforts to roll out and upgrade 4G and 5G infrastructure, including through rural coverage programmes. The transition aims to ensure that even in more remote and suburban areas, customers have access to modern mobile connectivity. For customers using virtual network operators that rely on Virgin Media O2’s network, for example, those on providers such as Tesco Mobile, Sky Mobile or giffgaff, the changes will likewise apply.
It is worth noting that for our customers, we are offering device recycling for older handsets via our Tech Recycle programme, often allowing users to trade in their old phone for money back. Additionally, increased investment in the network infrastructure means that while the transition may require some adaptation, customers who move to 4G/5G stand to benefit from faster speeds, stronger signals and improved battery efficiency.
Looking ahead, the retirement of 3G is part of a larger, necessary trend in telecoms as operators free up spectrum to meet growing data demands. In an era of streaming, video calls, mobile gaming and IoT devices, networks that were built for the early 2000s are no longer optimal. By shifting to 4G and 5G, providers such as Virgin Media O2 are positioning themselves for future needs. However, for a small proportion of customers with legacy devices, the change is immediate and tangible.
In summary, from 5 November customers in East Scotland should expect the beginning of the 3G switch‑off by Virgin Media O2. While most phone users are unlikely to notice any disruption thanks to widespread 4G/5G access, those relying on older phones should take action to avoid losing mobile data services. The change signals both the end of an era for 3G and a step forward towards faster, more efficient mobile connectivity across Scotland and the UK.
Need help with the 3G switch-off? Please reach out to Active Digital today on 01892 835522 for professional support. Don’t let the switch-off disrupt your service; we are here to help your business and ready to assist you every step of the way.
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