Vodafone UK has confirmed that it will phase out its legacy 2G network during 2030.
The carrier noted yesterday (September 22) that it aims to free up spectrum from its 2G network.
On the same day, the telco's German unit outlined plans to phase out 2G even sooner, starting its switch-off in 2028.
Vodafone launched its 2G network in the UK back in 1991. The company recently completed its merger in the country with Three UK, though the latter doesn't have any 2G spectrum, as it launched as a 3G network initially.
According to Vodafone, spectrum from its 2G network will be reutilized for its 4G and 5G networks.
"With spectrum in short supply, phasing out outdated 2G networks efficiently frees up this valuable resource, as well as allowing Vodafone to reallocate capital to support more advanced technologies," said the company.
Vodafone added that it will phase out all its remaining 2G networks in Europe by 2030, with the GSMA reporting that 131 networks are scheduled for shutdown by 2030, with about half being 2G networks.
The exact timing of the retirement of Vodafone's various 2G networks will vary country-by-country, added Vodafone.
2G networks are significantly slower than modern technologies such as 4G and 5G. This is highlighted by the GSMA, which reports that 2G can carry 0.1 bits of information per second. In comparison, 4G can carry 2.4 bits.
Legacy Internet of Things (IoT) systems have traditionally used 2G networks, but now have alternative technologies, such as CAT-M and NB-IoT, which can support older voice and IoT devices still in operation, such as low-powered meters.
"Network operation and maintenance costs will decrease as legacy equipment required for 2G can be recycled, which may also make physical space available for new equipment at Vodafone’s mobile sites," added Vodafone, which said its 2G phase out will be done gradually over the next five years, to minimize disruption.
Vodafone has already switched off its 3G network in the UK, doing so last year.
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