What happens;
Connecting to the internet with mobile phones is crucial for many citizens. Not just so they can find information wherever they are, but because many people work that way. That is why companies are trying to increase the speed of the internet, while now the world records are being set. Also, remember that satellite internet is now available in Greece as well.
The above certainly delights those who work from the internet, however, it is expected to cause some problems. What are these; The evolution of technology means that the 3G signal will come to an end by the end of 2021, while more weight will be given to 4G but, mainly, to the 5G network.
In fact, the company Cosmote officially announced that from September 2021 the gradual deactivation of 3G will begin and will be completed by the end of the year.
The reason, according to the company, is to support the ever-increasing demand for data, focusing on investing in 4G services but also in new technologies, such as 5G. Turning off 3G will free up the spectrum now used by the older network to achieve the best possible internet experience.
This practically means that anyone who has a 3G device and wants to continue to have access to mobile internet should upgrade to a 4G or 5G device in 2021. Otherwise, users will be able to access mobile internet, but only with a 2G signal, which will bring too low speeds.
Which mobiles will stop having internet in the near future – What is happening
According to the current plan, 5G coverage is projected to reach 60% in three years, while the even longer-term six-year plan sees 94% coverage.
Answers to important questions for 3G users:
What does the abolition of 3G mean?
- If you have a 4G device you will not be affected by the change, unless it is an old technology device, where you may notice very small differences.
- If you have a 3G device and you want to have the same or better mobile internet experience you should replace it with a new 4G device. Otherwise you will be able to continue using it for voice and messaging services through the 2G network with fewer mobile internet possibilities.
- If you have a 2G device and you are satisfied with your mobile internet connection, you do not need to make any changes. How can I have the best possible mobile internet experience?
To have the best possible mobile internet experience, it is recommended to get a state-of-the-art 4GVOLTE device because:
Your experience will be significantly improved since the 4G / 4G + network of COSMOTE offers 6 times higher average speed than the 3G network. You will also be able to upgrade your voice service experience to have WiFi Calling coverage in difficult areas where there is not enough mobile signal (eg underground). You will be able to use voice and internet in parallel.
Is there a case where I do not have 4G coverage?
All 3G network coverage will be completely replaced by 4G. In addition, the free WiFi Calling service that is available for all 4G VoLTE devices ensures coverage in the most demanding areas (underground, etc.) via WiFi, as long as there is a fixed internet connection.
Will the removal of the 3G network affect my 4G device?
4G devices belong to two major categories:
- 4G VoLTE devices that support WiFi Calling services, ie high quality voice services via 4G but also calls via WiFi Internet where there is no mobile network coverage but there is WiFi Internet.
- On 4G non-VoLTE devices that do not support WiFi Calling services.
So if your device is 4G Non-VoLTE you will not see a difference in internet service except during your phone calls.
I have a tablet with a built-in sim card. Am I concerned about the abolition of the 3G network?
If you have a 4G tablet, you do not need any action on your part. In case you have a 3G tablet you will have to replace it with a 4G one in order to have internet when you are not connected to WiFi.
I have special pocket WiFi equipment (or USB stick) in order to have internet. Am I concerned about the abolition of the 3G network?
If you bought the special equipment five years ago or older it is very likely that you will need to change it in order to continue to have internet.
