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2G network shutdown threatens critical infrastructure and devices
The phase-out of 2G and 3G mobile networks is creating significant challenges for various sectors. In La Réunion, SFR has confirmed that 2G services will end on November 30, 2026, as part of a broader effort to modernize networks and reallocate frequencies to 4G and 5G technologies.
In France, the transition poses risks to millions of devices. The association Hop estimates that up to 12 million devices could face obsolescence. Critical infrastructure is particularly vulnerable, including alarm systems, medical equipment, elderly assistance bracelets, truck trackers, and elevator emergency communication systems. The Elevator Federation noted that over one-third of the French elevator fleet relied on 2G technology.
While professional federations have called for delays, citing an ‘unrealistic calendar’ and the complex industrial time required to manufacture and test new hardware, the French government and the Senate have maintained that operators have sufficient time. Regulatory authorities have indicated that public powers cannot easily intervene in the commercial decisions of network operators due to European Union law.
Entities
ARCEP · France · French Senate · Fédération des ascenseurs · Hop · La Réunion · SFR Réunion
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [● 4 SOURCES] More than one-third of the French elevator fleet, approximately 230,000 out of 661,000 devices, relied on 2G at the end of last year. www.estrepublicain.fr · www.lejsl.com · www.dna.fr · www.vosgesmatin.fr
- [○ 1 SOURCE] The 2G network in La Réunion will be shut down on November 30, 2026. www.megazap.fr
- [● 4 SOURCES] Up to 12 million devices are threatened with obsolescence due to the phase-out of 2G and 3G networks. www.estrepublicain.fr · www.lejsl.com · www.dna.fr · www.vosgesmatin.fr
- [● 4 SOURCES] Public authorities cannot intervene in network operators' decisions without violating European Union law. www.estrepublicain.fr · www.lejsl.com · www.dna.fr · www.vosgesmatin.fr
- [● 2 SOURCES] The government maintains that professionals have been provided with sufficient time to transition. www.dna.fr · www.vosgesmatin.fr