Catenaa, Saturday, November 01, 2025- Virgin Media O2 (VMO2) is accelerating the shutdown of its 3G network in Scotland, starting with Aberdeen and Dundee, as part of a UK-wide plan to retire 3G services by the end of 2025.
The operator said most customers already have 4G or 5G devices and will not be affected, while those without will be contacted to upgrade.
Customers without a 4G or 5G handset will need a new device and SIM to continue using mobile data after 3G is switched off.
Vulnerable users are being offered a 4G-ready device free of charge, while others can upgrade at reduced prices. Voice calls and text messages will continue to work on older devices. Customers are encouraged to recycle old handsets through O2 Recycle for cash.
VMO2 said 3G currently carries less than 2% of network data, and freeing this spectrum will support faster and more energy-efficient 4G and 5G services.
Redeployed spectrum has already been used to upgrade sites in Durham, with more locations planned in the coming months.
Earlier this year, the company spent £343 million to acquire 78.8 MHz of mobile spectrum from Vodafone Three, increasing its total share of UK mobile spectrum to roughly 30%. VMO2 has pledged £2 billion in network investment in 2025, including £700 million for mobile upgrades.
Chief Technology Officer Jeanie York emphasized that the transition to 4G and 5G will improve user experience and network efficiency. Customers are advised to upgrade promptly to maintain uninterrupted mobile data services.
