Replace a 2G-only or 3G-only phone with a handset that supports at least 4G, but check that it can also make calls on your provider’s network. An older 4G phone may only need a software or settings update; if you do buy, choose a simple 4G phone for calls and texts or a smartphone if you also need apps and mobile data. Ofcom confirms that UK 3G networks have closed and 2G is being phased out, while EE and Three UK explain why 4G Calling compatibility matters for voice service.
If your phone cannot use 4G, plan a replacement rather than waiting for its existing connection to continue. Ofcom says UK 3G networks have closed and 2G-only devices need an upgrade to at least 4G; your provider can tell you when its 2G service will end.
You may be able to keep your phone if its exact model, SIM and plan support your provider’s 4G Calling service. EE and Three UK explain that 4G data capability alone does not establish call compatibility after older-network closures.
If messaging apps, maps or banking matter alongside calls, consider a 4G or 5G smartphone rather than a basic feature phone. Check the exact handset’s calling compatibility with your provider as a separate step.
Choose this when: Your provider confirms that the phone, SIM and plan support its 4G Calling service; a software or settings update may be all you need.
Trade-off: A 4G label does not establish that an older handset can make calls without 2G or 3G fallback.
Choose this when: Physical keys and straightforward calling and texting matter more than smartphone apps.
Trade-off: Check the exact model’s 4G Calling support; not every feature phone in a brand’s range is 4G-capable.
Choose this when: You need apps and mobile data as well as calls; a suitable 4G or 5G model can meet that need.
Trade-off: 5G is not required for the network transition and does not, by itself, confirm 4G Calling compatibility.
| Concern | What to check | Who this matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Call compatibility | Ask your provider about 4G Calling, also called VoLTE, for the exact phone model and whether your SIM or plan needs changing. | I need ordinary calls to keep working after my provider withdraws older networks. For around 40% of consumers, call compatibility is the primary concern. |
| Simple calling and texting | Compare the exact model’s keypad, display and charging arrangements, and check any accessibility feature you rely on. | I would rather use physical keys than a touchscreen and need controls I can manage comfortably. Simplicity comes first for around 30% of consumers. |
| Apps and mobile data | Choose a smartphone that supports the apps you use, then confirm its 4G Calling compatibility with your provider. | Calls alone are not enough if I also use apps and online services on my phone. Around 20% of consumers put smartphone access first. |
| Coverage in key locations | Check your intended provider’s coverage at home, work and other important places; treat map results as a guide. | My phone needs to work where I spend time, especially if reception varies between places. Coverage is the main concern for around 10% of consumers. |
EE and Three UK distinguish 4G data access from 4G Calling. An older phone may also be affected by its SIM or plan when the provider withdraws legacy service.
Give your provider the exact handset model and ask about its 4G Calling support, SIM and plan before buying. Check the calling setting when you set up the phone.
Ofcom says a 2G-only device needs an upgrade to at least 4G. For calls, provider-supported 4G Calling matters more than a 5G label.
Consider 5G for your smartphone and data needs, but confirm calling compatibility whichever network generation you choose.
Ofcom identifies telecare and security alarms among devices that may use mobile networks independently of your phone. Replacing a handset does not change their connection.
Ask each device’s supplier, service provider or installer what that particular equipment needs; handset buying advice cannot establish whether it will continue to work.
Three UK says coverage can vary indoors and by device, so a map result cannot establish service in a particular room.
Check the intended provider’s coverage for important locations and test the replacement there promptly, taking account of the seller’s applicable return terms.
A range to examine if you want a feature phone with physical keys for calling and texting.
A range to examine if large keys or other accessible controls are important.
A smartphone option to examine if you want to retain app access.
Not necessarily: Ofcom says some 4G or 5G devices may only need a software or settings update. Ask your provider whether your exact phone supports its 4G Calling service and whether your SIM and plan are suitable; EE warns that older non-VoLTE 4G devices and legacy SIMs or plans can be affected by its 2G closure.
Start with the provider supplying your service and ask it to check the exact handset model, SIM and plan against its switch-off guidance. Check that 4G Calling is supported and enabled on the phone, and use the provider’s coverage checker for places that matter to you. EE customers can also text HANDSET to 150 for its handset check.
No: Ofcom says 2G-only devices need upgrading to at least 4G. A 4G replacement still needs the calling support required by your provider; choose 5G if it also suits your smartphone and data needs.
No. Ofcom identifies telecare and security alarms among equipment that may connect to mobile networks separately. Contact the equipment supplier, service provider or installer about that device’s own transition requirements.
A provider’s postcode checker is a useful starting point, not a guarantee of indoor service. Three UK says coverage can vary by building and device, so test the phone in the places where you need it.