In order to introduce new services on wireless/ mobile devices providing higher data rates, there is a need for installation of latest commercial wireless networks (such as 4G and 5G systems, particularly the latter). However, these 4G and 5G systems need much more wider frequency bands for operation compared to their predecessors. The increasing pressure to introduce newer services is forcing a phasing out of older technologies so that more spectrum may be freed. While 1G services were stopped long back, most of the countries now have either already shut down 2G services or they are in the process of doing so. In the same context, I think it is now expected that operators in some countries may be actively considering the possibility of shutting down 3G services also. Is there already a hint of a possible trend being pursued by network operators for switching off the 3G services?
In Sweden, the 3G networks will also be closed down in the coming years. Actually, before 2G is closed down since there are many small devices (terminals for payment, electricity meters, etc) that require 2G. But also 2G is on the roadmap to be closed down.
In my opinion, it will not be easy to do away with 3G systems just yet. In India, for e.g., there are states that still operate on 2G; thus doing away with 3G systems will not be possible. Also, payment and UE related issues persist. This 3G shut-down will be a longer process. However, hint of it can be seen in the market.
Best Regards
Sridhar
Dear Preston Guynn
Thanks for your timely answer. I checked up the link https://www.att.com/support/article/wireless/KM1324171 provided by you which further led me another useful link https://www.att.com/idpassets/images/support/pdf/Devices-Working-on-ATT-Network.pdf which in turn gives a list of phone/tablet models which may (or may not) continue to work as result of phase out.
Thanks once again.
M. Salim Beg
Dear Sridhar Iyer
Thanks for your input. It does seem from the answer given by Preston Guynn that phasing out of 3G has in fact started. Of course the pace at which this phasing out takes place is also relevant.
Some countries which are more resourceful, such as USA, may carry this out somewhat vigorously.
Other countries which are relatively less affluent may perhaps exhibit more inertia (because of financial issues) and consequently take a longer time before shutting down their 3G transmissions, as you have rightly hinted.
Thanks.
M. Salim Beg
Dear Emil Björnson
Thanks for your input. I was just wondering whether you are aware of any timeline or pace that may possibly be pursued for 3G phase out in Sweden!?
Thanks.
M. Salim Beg
Professor Beg, I agree that this phase out will be financially dependent.
The other aspect I would point out is the willingness of the citizens. There are few groups against deployment of 5G systems. The government/agencies will need to convince them to move further from 3G, and find a way out. This has been mentioned in multiple survey articles on 5G/6G.
Regards
Sridhar
Hi M. Salim Beg Sir,
In India, 3G has already been phased out in several circles. Please have a look at the links below.
1. https://www.republicworld.com/technology-news/mobile/airtel-3g-shutdown-in-which-states-has-airtel-3g-stopped-working.html
2. https://telecom.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/vodafone-idea-to-shut-down-3g-services-in-delhi-on-15-january-2021-report/80057391
Although, in India, 2G will still be there as mentioned by VI in the report below.
3. https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/info-tech/vodafone-idea-to-exit-3g-services-by-financial-year-2022/article33847255.ece#:~:text=Vodafone%20Idea%20Ltd%20(VIL)%2C,network%20is%20also%205G%20ready.
YES.
Both PSTN Landline and 2G/3G Cellular sunset date has already been provided .
PSTN ~ so the removal of the -50VDC highly reliable and 2023 for 2G/3G with reparenting of RF assets and Bands.
Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) are typically members of the GSM Association (GSMA). The topic on 2G/3G Network "sunset" in light of 5G network rollouts and 4G network expansions, is an on-going "hot" topic faced by all affected MNOs. Such network evolution is natural to benefit from the new network features and capabilities improvements, besides for cost and spectrum efficiencies.
No doubt the 2G/3G Network shutdown will directly impact existing services, but will also require planning for other in-direct impacts. These are documented and available for public reference at the GSMA web pages. For example, please refer to:
https://www.gsma.com/spectrum/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/Legacy-mobile-network-rationalisation.pdf
https://www.gsma.com/aboutus/workinggroups/key-areas/volte-roaming
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