The 3G switch-off explained

3G has been retired. Here’s what that means for you.

UK mobile networks have switched off their 3G services as newer technologies such as 4G and 5G have become more widely available.

The change frees up network capacity for newer technology and helps mobile providers offer faster, more efficient services.

If you’re using an older phone that was designed around 3G, it may now have to rely on an older 2G connection — where available — or may no longer offer the same level of service you’re used to.

Why 3G was retired

Why upgrade to 4G?

Why 3G was retired

Making room for newer technology

As mobile technology has evolved, fewer people have continued to rely on 3G.

Retiring older networks allows mobile providers to reuse the same radio frequencies for newer technology, helping increase network capacity and support faster, more efficient mobile services.

For customers, it means older phones may eventually need to be replaced with devices designed for modern networks.

Why 3G was retired

Making room for newer technology

As mobile technology has evolved, fewer people have continued to rely on 3G.

Retiring older networks allows mobile providers to reuse the same radio frequencies for newer technology, helping increase network capacity and support faster, more efficient mobile services.

For customers, it means older phones may eventually need to be replaced with devices designed for modern networks.

Why upgrade to 4G?

A newer network doesn’t mean a more complicated phone

Moving to 4G doesn’t mean you have to switch to a complicated smartphone.

Doro offers both easy-to-use feature phones with physical buttons and straightforward smartphones — all designed to make everyday calling and communication easier.

Benefits of moving to 4G

  • - Clearer voice calls
  • - Better mobile network coverage
  • - Reliable everyday calling and texting
  • - Modern network compatibility
  • - A choice of simple phones or smartphones
  • - Familiar Doro usability and accessibility features

Why upgrade to 4G?

A newer network doesn’t mean a more complicated phone

Moving to 4G doesn’t mean you have to switch to a complicated smartphone.

Doro offers both easy-to-use feature phones with physical buttons and straightforward smartphones — all designed to make everyday calling and communication easier.

Benefits of moving to 4G

  • - Clearer voice calls
  • - Better mobile network coverage
  • - Reliable everyday calling and texting
  • - Modern network compatibility
  • - A choice of simple phones or smartphones
  • - Familiar Doro usability and accessibility features

Which type of 4G phone is right for you?

Whether you prefer a traditional mobile with physical buttons or want access to apps, photos and video calls, there’s a Doro 4G phone designed to suit the way you like to stay connected.

Simple or smart? 
You decide.

Black smartphone with app icons displayed on the screen, showing front and back views.

Doro Aurora Series

Remote Help & Support

Designed around age related changes

Doro Secure Button for help when needed most

Doro ClearSound for calls you can hear

Doro Leva Series

Large buttons that make dialling simpler

Doro ClearSound for calls you can hear

Doro Secure Button for help when needed most

Clear, intuitive controls and easy-to-use interface.

Everything you need to know about switching to 4G

What has happened to the 3G network?

Mobile providers have retired their 3G networks as they move capacity towards newer technologies such as 4G and 5G.

This means phones that depend on 3G can no longer connect to that network.

Will my old 3G phone stop working completely?

It depends on the phone and mobile network.

Some older phones may fall back to 2G for certain services where 2G remains available. However, relying on older networks may affect coverage and functionality, which is why upgrading to a 4G-compatible device is recommended.

How do I know if my phone supports 4G?

Check your phone’s specifications or look up the model on the Doro website.

If you’re unsure, Doro Support can help you identify your phone and check whether it supports 4G.

Do I need a smartphone to use 4G?

No.

Doro offers 4G feature phones with physical buttons as well as smartphones. You can continue using a simple mobile while benefiting from a modern network.

What are the benefits of a 4G phone?

A 4G phone gives you access to a modern mobile network with improved coverage and support for high-quality voice calls.

Depending on the phone you choose, you can still keep the familiar buttons and straightforward features you’re used to.

Can I keep my existing mobile number?

In most cases, yes.

If you’re changing mobile provider as well as your phone, you can usually transfer your existing UK number using a PAC code from your current provide

Do I need to change my SIM card?

Possibly.

Older SIM cards may not support all 4G services. Your mobile provider can confirm whether your existing SIM is suitable or provide a replacement.

Will a 4G phone be more difficult to use?

Not necessarily.

Doro offers 4G phones designed specifically around straightforward everyday use, including models with physical keypads, large displays and simple menus.

What is the difference between a Doro feature phone and a Doro smartphone?

A Doro feature phone is designed mainly for calls and texts and typically uses physical buttons.

A Doro smartphone offers additional features such as apps, internet access, photos and video calls while retaining Doro’s focus on easy-to-use design.

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