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Global 2G and 3G network decommissioning

Updated 3 times since CLSTR started tracking revisions of this situation.

What changed

2026-08-29 05:24 UTC → 2026-09-07 10:58 UTC · added removed

Europe is leading the global transition to decommission legacy 2G and 3G mobile networks to repurpose spectrum for 4G and 5G. According to the Global Mobile Suppliers Association (GSA), 43% of all network switch-offs are concentrated in Europe, followed by Asia (26%) and Latin America (9%). While 3G decommissioning is progressing—with 102 operators having completed the process—2G remains more resilient due to its role in machine-to-machine (M2M) communications and the Internet of Things (IoT). The phase-out presents significant risks to critical infrastructure. Automated emergency systems like eCall, medical equipment, elderly assistance bracelets, and truck trackers may lose functionality. In Spain, concerns persist regarding elevators that rely on 2G for emergency calls, though 4G coverage remains high at 99.99%. In La Réunion, SFR has confirmed a 2G shutdown date of November 30, 2026. In France, the transition has sparked intense debate. The association Hop estimates up to 12 million devices could be affected. Industry professionals have criticized operator timelines as “unrealistic,” arguing that upgrading equipment involves complex industrial manufacturing rather than simple SIM card changes. The Elevator Federation has specifically highlighted that over one-third of the French elevator fleet relies on 2G technology. While professional federations have requested delays from the regulator Arcep, Beyond infrastructure risks, the French government decommissioning process intersects with growing cybersecurity concerns. 2G networks are noted for being highly vulnerable because they lack mutual authentication, allowing attackers to use devices such as “SMS Blasters” or “False Base Stations” to mimic legitimate towers and the Senate have maintained intercept communications. In response to these vulnerabilities, Google is introducing features in Android 17 that will allow operators have provided sufficient notice and that public authorities cannot easily interfere with private network decisions due to European Union law. disable 2G by default, offering a ‘zero click’ layer of protection for users.

Versions

  1. 2026-09-07 10:58 UTC Global 2G and 3G network decommissioning
  2. 2026-08-29 05:24 UTC Global 2G and 3G network decommissioning
  3. 2026-08-29 04:56 UTC Global 2G and 3G network decommissioning
  4. 2026-08-26 02:07 UTC Global 2G and 3G network decommissioning

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