So long, 3G
Around 20 years ago, the third mobile generation, 3G, heralded the start of the mobile Internet age. What was once a ground-breaking mobile generation is now 20 years old and no longer efficiently meets the needs of today’s customers. By the end of 2025, therefore, Swisscom will switch off 3G completely, freeing up mobile network resources for more powerful, state-of-the-art technologies and ensuring that our network is fit for the future.
Good reasons for
the 3G shutdown
More Speed
At the time of its launch around 20 years ago, the third mobile generation was a revolution. It laid the foundation for the triumphant progress of the smartphone and enabled us to be online any time, anywhere. The very latest technologies are now up to three times more efficient. Which is why we’re upgrading our network now: 3G is making room for more advanced, sustainable technologies.
More power
Nowadays, only 1% of all mobile data is transmitted via 3G, while 4G and 5G account for 99%. However, the 20-year-old 3G technology takes up a large amount of network capacity, which we now need for the latest, more efficient mobile technologies. This is the only way we will be able to meet the growing demands of our customers.
More sustainability
Swisscom sources its electricity from 100% renewable energy. A current 5G mobile network consumes around 30 times less energy than a 3G installation to transmit the same volume of data. This is similar to a high-speed train travelling on a new line compared to a conventional train on a classic railway line. The shutdown of 3G is worth it for this reason alone.
A mobile phone journey through time
The first mobile phones hit the world almost 30 years ago. Within a short time they became the smartphones that have become an integral part of our everyday lives.
Free SMS enquiry offers clarity
There are 4G mobile phones around which still use 3G for calls, even though they are 4G-enabled. These devices will no longer work after the shutdown. By sending a free SMS with “3G” to 444, you can easily check which technologies your phone supports.
Trainer Marcel explains the difference between 3G and 4G
Donate your old mobile phones to children in need
Do you have a mobile phone you no longer need? It doesn’t matter whether it works or not: we will turn it into cash and donate the proceeds to SOS Children’s Villages.
On the move on Swisscom’s network, powered by renewable energy
We have been using 100% renewable energy for our network since 2010.
Frequently asked questions
When will 3G/UMTS be deactivated?
The Swisscom 3G network will only be available until the end of 2025, after which time it will be shut down.
Where can I go if I have questions about the 3G switch-off and my services or equipment?
Residential customers:
Take your smartphone to a Shop or contact us via the hotline, so that we can look at your device together and see if it’s ready for the future.
Business customers:
Please get in touch with your contact person at Swisscom so that we can discuss the next steps together. Please start replacement planning early to avoid bottlenecks in equipment availability, required resources and budgets.
Third party customers:
Approach your suppliers and discuss the possible solutions with them.
How can I use VoLTE on my device?
The newer devices that are enabled for 4G or higher also support VoLTE telephony. If VoLTE telephony is not activated on your device, you can do this under “Settings - Mobile Networks - VoLTE Calls” or by searching in Settings.
If it is not clear whether your device is VoLTE-enabled, you can test it. If your device displays 4G but this disappears when you make a call, then VoLTE is not switched on or your device is not VoLTE-enabled.
Is there already an expiry date for 4G?
We recommend devices based on the latest technology, currently with 4G and 5G support. At present, there are no plans to phase out 4G or 5G.