UK mobile operators will phase out 2G networks by 2033, following the UK Government’s plan to upgrade to 4G, 5G, and IoT networks.
We’ll announce the exact timeline for the 2G shutdown for our customers soon, aiming to retire it later this decade. This will allow us to improve our 4G and 5G services, making the network faster and more secure.
BT has not offered 2G-only SIMs, plans, or devices for many years. Anyone still using one has likely been doing so for a long time, has no access to modern applications, and their devices are less secure because of it.
2G customers will be notified multiple times via their preferred contact method to ensure they have support to switch to 4G, 5G, or IoT networks. Most customers are already on 4G/5G compatible devices, and those who aren’t yet are being encouraged to make over as soon as possible.
BT leverages EE, the UK’s largest and most reliable network, to provide mobile coverage to over 99% of the population and nearly 90% of the country’s landmass.
In the past decade, EE has expanded its 4G network by an additional 60,000 square kilometres, covering two-thirds of the UK’s landmass. Through initiatives like the Shared Rural Network and Scottish 4G Infill, EE has significantly reduced mobile not-spots (an area without signal) across the UK and continues to do so. You can check coverage in your area by entering your postcode into our Coverage Checker.
If you have an Account Manager, you should contact them to discuss moving over urgently, however if you do not have an Account Manager you can contact our Sales team here to discuss this move.
