Orange and French mobile operators phase out 2G networks

In France, the telecommunications operator Orange is executing a phased decommissioning of its 2G mobile network. Following initial service terminations in the southwest during March 2026, the operator announced it would resume shutdowns in Nice on September 22, 2026.

A large-scale shutdown is scheduled for October 6, 2026, which is expected to affect 44 departments across regions including Brittany, Corsica, Grand Est, Occitanie, Pays de la Loire, and Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur. The full cessation of 2G transmissions is slated for October 20, 2026.

Orange cited high maintenance costs and energy savings as primary drivers for the move, noting that 2G accounts for 30% of mobile-network power consumption. The decommissioning is intended to free up antenna sites for denser 4G and 5G coverage.

As the industry moves toward modernization, other major French operators have also established timelines for 2G discontinuation: SFR expects to finish by November 15, 2026, and Bouygues Telecom plans to complete its shutdown by mid-December 2026. Free Mobile is expected to follow these transitions as it relies on Orange’s network for 2G roaming. While 3G phase-outs are anticipated between 2028 and 2029, the current 2G transition presents immediate risks for legacy hardware. Arcep data indicates approximately 2 million SIM cards still rely on 2G technology, including medical assistance devices and alarm systems. Experts warn that roughly 700,000 alarm and senior assistance transmitters may lose connectivity unless upgraded to 4G VoLTE-compatible hardware. Conversely, the shutdown is expected to improve security by eliminating vulnerabilities such as IMSI-catchers.