Could your phone stop working soon?

Have you ever wanted to watch a video but your smartphone is working at snail's pace?

Well, things might get more tricky soon as older phones with 2G and 3G technology may soon be unable to connect calls or send a text.

This is because the mobile network operators are going to be switching off the technology used to power the 3G networks in order to put more resource into newer 4G and 5G systems.

Read on to find out why, and how where you live will make a difference too.

Why are they switching 3G off?

Giant communication towers provide mobile phone network including 3, 4 and 5G signal... but only if you live close enough to one.

An agreement between the government and mobile network providers, such as Vodafone, EE, Virgin Media O2 and Three, says that 2G and 3G services would be phased out by 2033.

This is because the majority of people with smartphones, use 4G and 5G instead as it is newer, faster and more powerful.

But if your phone is 4G/5G-ready, you may notice it may run on 3G tech because of where you live.

Some phone networks have already started phasing out 3G in some areas of the UK.

There are concerns from campaign groups that the phase-out will create 'digital poverty' where only people with the latest phones or smart devices will be able to access the internet.

In 2023, the Digital Poverty Alliance, which helps people access digital services, said switching off 3G would have "detrimental effects".

"Older and basic devices do not have 4G capabilities, so individuals who can only get online using a basic device will fall into digital poverty".

But network provider Three say the 3G network isn't energy efficient, and its removal will provide a more sustainable future.

Do you think you will be affected by the 3G switch off? Let us know using the comments section below.