Virgin Media O2 has ramped up its Scottish 3G retirement plans, announcing that its legacy network will be withdrawn in the country from November 5.

The UK carrier said that it will kick off the retirement in Aberdeen and Dundee, before moving to other locations in Scotland.

Virgin Media O2 said that its 3G network accounts for less than two percent of all network data. O2 launched its 3G network more than 20 years ago.

Spectrum from the company's 3G network will be reallocated to upgrading Virgin Media O2's 4G and 5G networks.

Rival carriers EE and Vodafone shut down their 3G networks early last year, while Three UK said it has phased out 3G across most of the country.

“We have already successfully withdrawn 3G in a number of UK locations, and in November we’ll be turning our attention to large areas of Scotland," said Jeanie York, chief technology officer, Virgin Media O2.

"We know that the vast majority of our customers already have a 4G or 5G handset and will not have to take any action, and we’re writing directly to those who will be impacted to provide guidance and support.

Virgin Media O2 didn't give a specific date for when its 3G switch-off will be completed nationwide.

So far, the carrier has retired its 3G network in a number of locations, including Durham, Norwich, Telford, Guildford, and Torquay.

The telco claims that its 4G mobile network covers 99 percent of the UK, while its 5G network reaches more than half of the nation.

In July, the company stated it would start its transition away from its 2G network this year.