Poland to retire 3G mobile network by end of 2026

Polish mobile operators—including T‑Mobile, Orange, Play and Plus—are phasing out the 3G network, with a complete shutdown planned for the end of 2026. The move is driven by low usage of the legacy technology and the desire to free spectrum for faster 4G/LTE and 5G services.

The transition will be largely invisible for most users, whose smartphones will automatically switch to newer bands. However, hundreds of thousands of older devices that support only 3G risk losing mobile internet access, affecting functions such as maps, mobile banking and data‑heavy apps. Voice calls and SMS will still work on 3G‑only phones. Operators have warned that seniors and low‑income users are the most vulnerable groups. Piotr Szymanowski, deputy director of B2C sales at Plus, urged customers to check whether their phones support 4G/LTE or 5G before the shutdown.

Consumers are advised to verify device compatibility through carrier tools or manufacturer specifications to avoid digital exclusion once the 3G spectrum is repurposed.