Better network coverage planned for rural areas
The Telecoms AG, a German telecommunications company that is one of the largest in the world, is planning to switch off its 2G network (GSM) completely on 30 June 2028. This means that old mobile phones without newer standards such as 4G and 5G will no longer be usable.
By switching off the outdated network, Deutsche Telekom intends to utilise the frequencies freed up in the 900 MHz band for 4G and 5G networks in order to improve the Network coverage especially in rural areas. This will then also provide a Faster data transmission where previously only telephony via 2G was possible.
Deutsche Telekom customers do not need a new mobile phone if their device already supports 4G or 5G. Only older models without these standards will no longer work from 2028 and will need to be replaced.
Different plans of the network operators
Other German network operators such as Vodafone and Telefónica O2 reportedly have different plans. Vodafone intends to gradually dismantle the 2G network by the end of 2030, while Telefónica O2 is not currently planning to switch it off.
Other affected devices
In addition to telephony, the switch-off of the GSM network also affects many IoT (Internet of Things) services, such as networked electricity meters and alarm systems, which are currently still based on 2G.
To ensure the operation of these devices, Deutsche Telekom recommends that providers and users plan the replacement of outdated radio modules now. According to information from Deutsche Telekom, a cost-effective replacement can be realised through early planning, especially for devices with long service cycles.