SIGNALInfrastructure Software·Jun 23, 2026, 3:56 PMSignal55Medium term

O2 joins UK 2G switch-off with summer 2029 start date

Source: The Register

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O2 joins UK 2G switch-off with summer 2029 start date

It's not just old phones – many smart meters and telecare alarms still use the ancient technology

Why this matters
Why now

Telecommunications providers are modernizing their infrastructure, phasing out legacy technologies like 2G as newer, more efficient options become widely available and user adoption shifts.

Why it’s important

This move highlights the ongoing obsolescence of older network technologies, pushing users and dependent systems onto newer, more secure, and data-rich network standards.

What changes

The UK telecommunications landscape continues its transition from legacy 2G networks, impacting older devices and requiring significant upgrades for sectors like IoT and telecare.

Winners
  • · 5G and 4G network providers
  • · IoT device manufacturers (modern standards)
  • · Telecom infrastructure companies
  • · Cybersecurity providers
Losers
  • · Legacy 2G device users
  • · Manufacturers of 2G-only smart meters
  • · Elderly care services reliant on old telecare
  • · Remote monitoring systems (older generation)
Second-order effects
Direct

Existing 2G-dependent devices, such as smart meters and telecare alarms, will cease to function or require costly upgrades.

Second

This mandate will accelerate the adoption of newer cellular IoT technologies, potentially boosting innovation in smart city and healthcare solutions.

Third

It might expose vulnerabilities in sectors that have been slow to modernize, potentially leading to transitional disruptions in essential services or an increase in digital divide for those unable to upgrade.

Editorial confidence: 90 / 100 · Structural impact: 40 / 100
Original report

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