Do you remember your first mobile phone? For many, it operated on a 2G network. Today, as France begins shutting down these networks, a crucial question arises: are you ready for the transition to 4G and 5G? Discover why the switch to these new technologies is more urgent than ever.
The 3 key facts not to miss
- ARCEP warns against the slow migration of millions of subscribers still on 2G and 3G networks.
- The shutdown of 2G networks begins on March 31, 2026, in certain French regions, led by Orange.
- VoLTE compatibility is essential to continue making calls after the 2G shutdown.
Start of the 2G shutdown in France
March 31, 2026, marks the beginning of the shutdown of 2G networks in mainland France, with Orange leading the way. This shutdown starts in the Bayonne, Anglet, and Biarritz area, before gradually extending to other regions and departments. SFR and Bouygues Telecom have also planned their respective shutdowns in November and December, while Free, which uses Orange’s 2G network, will follow the same schedule.
Impact on subscribers and connected objects
According to ARCEP, about 5.2 million SIM cards are still inserted in devices only compatible with 2G or 3G. This situation mainly concerns two categories: regular users for calls, SMS, and internet, and connected objects such as smart meters and surveillance systems. The current pace of migration, although improving, remains insufficient in the face of the urgency of the scheduled shutdown.
VoLTE: the key technology for the transition
The migration to 4G relies on VoLTE technology, which allows voice calls over the 4G network with quality equivalent to that of 2G and 3G networks. However, not all phones are automatically equipped for VoLTE. It is therefore crucial to check your device’s compatibility and make the necessary updates, or replace it if needed. Operators offer online tools to facilitate this verification.
Common issue: adapting connected objects to 4G
Besides phones, the transition to 4G also concerns a multitude of connected objects that still rely on 2G or 3G to function. These devices, such as anti-intrusion alarms or medical devices, often require an upgrade or replacement to continue functioning after the shutdown of the old networks. Owners must therefore contact their suppliers to ensure their equipment’s compatibility with 4G and plan the necessary adjustments.