Orange begins phased 2G network shutdown in France

Orange is beginning a phased shutdown of its 2G mobile network in France. On October 6, 2026, the shutdown will affect 44 departments, with an additional 43 departments scheduled for disconnection on October 20, 2026.

The transition impacts more than just mobile phones; critical devices such as teleassistance systems, alarms, intercoms, and heating controls may rely on this technology. Users are advised to check if their devices support 4G or 5G and specifically if they support VoLTE (Voice over LTE) to ensure voice calls function correctly on newer networks.

While the shutdown is widespread, Orange noted that temporary exceptions will exist in certain regulated white zones, with a final shutdown for those areas planned between December 1 and December 15.