We are building for the future

In line with the upgrade and modernization of 4G and 5G it is time to say goodbye to the older technologies 2G and 3G. This is a futureproofing technology shift that gives Tele2 the opportunity to reuse frequencies for newer generations that are safer and more robust.  

On December 1st, 2025, Tele2’s 2G network will be switched off. The decommissioning of the 3G network is already underway in individual locations and will finally be switched off at the same time as the 2G network in December. 

How are you affected by the change?

IoT devices that only support 2G or 3G needs to be upgraded to support the future technologies 4G and 5G. In the cases where you solution is depended on voice service, it is important to make sure it supports VoLTE, Voice over LTE.    

We are here to help you identify where changes need to be made and our team is ready to assist you in assessing which technology you should move to, as well as address other challenges, such as if your hardware will be compatible. 

Please feel free to contact us to assess your needs for 2G/3G, as well as to answer any other questions you might have.  

What do you need to do?

In order to be ready for this technology shift, it is important that you upgrade or swap your devices to support 4G and 5G before December 2025. After this date Tele2 will no longer support the older technologies, 2G and 3G.  

This inventory and upgrade will take time, please make sure you start already now.  

Sunsetting is a global trend

This technology shift is happening all over the world. We are aware of at least 40 partners in Europe that will close down 2G and 3G before end of 2025. Even if Tele2 Sweden no longer supports 2G and/or 3G in the home network after December 2025, the technology will work in roaming scenario, as long as the roaming operator supports it.  

We have gathered all the information in the Roaming Services Sunset list, this is distributed quarterly or upon request.

Why are the 2G and 3G networks switched off?  

All technologies eventually become outdated and require upgrades or replacement. By shutting down the increasingly unused 2G and 3G networks, Tele2 frees up capacity to expand its 5G coverage while enhancing the speed, stability, and security of existing 4G services 

How is the coverage affected by this technology shift? 

As Tele2 close down 2G and 3G, we are also expanding and increasing capacity in both 4G and 5G, which in the long run means that mobile coverage will be better than before. 

Will I be able to use equipment that is only compatible with 2G or 3G when these networks are turned off? 

No, devices that only use 2G or 3G will stop working when the networks are closed down. This applies to both voice and data services, SMS and emergency calls.  

Upgrading services and equipment takes time and careful planning. We therefore recommend that, well before December 2025, you review and assess your company’s needs for upgrades or replacements. 

What if my device is not compatible with 4G or 5G?

If your device or equipment is not compatible with 4G or 5G, it needs to be upgraded or replaced. You are welcome to contact us if you need any guidance.  

What devices and services can be affected by the 2G sunset? 

Devices and equipment that will be affected are older mobile phones and equipment for mobile broadband, but also many connected devices such as; alarm systems, telephone exchanges, card terminals, electricity meters, heat pumps, remote control equipment, parking meters, tracking equipment, video surveillance, security alarms and security phones. Therefore, we urge everyone to review their connected device and, if necessary, replace it with a future-proof alternative. 

Will my older equipment work abroad?

This technology shift is happening around the world and several markets have already completely closed 2G and 3G. We have gathered important dates in our Roaming sunset file, for you to keep track of networks that are sunsetting these technologies.

Why is the 3G network shut down before the 2G network? 

In Sweden 2G is more common than 3G for connected devices, and therefore both Tele2 and other operators choose to keep the 2G network open longer than 3G. 

Is it allowed to shut down a network? 

Yes it is. The operators who own the 3G and 2G networks may make changes to them as long as they comply with the permit conditions in their frequency permits. They are technology neutral and therefore have no requirement to provide a specific technology such as 2G (GSM) or 3G (WCDMA). 

Tele2 jointly owns the 3G network with Telia, via the company Sunab, and the 2G, 4G and 5G networks with Telenor, through the company Net4mobility. 

Useful links

Tele2 Coverage Map: www.tele2.se/mobilt/tackning-och-nat/tackningskarta 

Link to PTS: www.pts.se/internet-och-telefoni/teknikskifte/ 

Official Swedish Campaign: www.bytnat.nu/