The 3G network is being shut down.
20 years ago, the third generation of mobile telephony, 3G, made it possible to access the internet while on the move. Today, however, faster and more powerful networks are available in the form of 4G and 5G. That’s why the Swisscom 3G network in Switzerland and Liechtenstein will only be available until the end of 2025, after which time it will be shut down within a few weeks.
Possible limitations after the shutdown
The 3G network shutdown will result in some limitations for affected devices. It does not matter whether your device is prepaid or linked to a subscription.
Please see the personal letter or SMS for specific details of the limitations that apply to you.
Mobile Internet
Following the 3G shutdown, it will only be possible to access mobile Internet over 4G/5G. Devices that can only access the mobile Internet over the 3G network will no longer be able to surf the net or use apps after the shutdown. It will still be possible to access the Internet over a WLAN connection.
Telephony
Following the 3G shutdown, it will only be possible to make calls over 4G/5G. Devices that do not support 4G/5G will not be able to make calls after the shutdown. It will, however, still be possible to make calls over a WLAN connection using apps such as WhatsApp, Viber or Signal.
Emergency calls
Following the 3G shutdown, emergency calls (to numbers such as 112, 911, 117 or 144) can only be made over 4G/5G. Devices that do not support 4G/5G will not be able to make emergency calls after the shutdown. Emergency numbers use specific connections, meaning that even some devices that are 4G/5G enabled may not be configured to make emergency calls over 4G/5G.
SIM cards
Following the 3G shutdown, only 4G/5G SIM cards will be able to use mobile Internet and make telephone calls. Some older SIM cards are limited to the 3G network. If you have one of these older SIM cards, you will not be able to use mobile Internet or make calls after the 3G shutdown.
SMS
Following the 3G shutdown, it will only be possible to make and receive SMS messages over 4G/5G. Devices that only support the 3G network will not be able to send or receive SMS messages after the 3G shutdown.
We recommend replacing affected devices.
To make the switch a little easier, we have selected devices for you at an exclusive price without any subscription adjustment or new minimum contract period (includes prepaid customers).
You can either purchase your new device online (you will need your Swisscom Login for this) or from one of our Swisscom Shops(opens in new tab) or arrange an appointment (opens in new tab)(opens in new tab)here(opens in new tab). We will be happy to help you set up the new device.
Our exclusive offer for you.
Until the end of 2025, Swisscom is offering customers affected by the 3G shutdown a range of devices at special rates. The prices and devices on offer are subject to change at short notice. The prices and devices listed on the current website apply at the time of purchase. The current offers are only available to customers affected by the 3G shutdown and while stocks last.
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3G Shutdown - briefly explained
FAQs
What are the terms and conditions of the device offers?
The offers are intended exclusively for customers affected by the 3G network shutdown (with subscription or prepaid). The prices are purely for the hardware, with no obligation to take out a new subscription and no impact on the existing minimum contract term.
You can also benefit from our regular subscription extension(opens in new tab) or prepaid switch offers(opens in new tab).
Do I have to replace my phone by the end of 2025?
To keep using the basic functions of your phone, we recommend switching to an up-to-date device in good time.
What happens if I don’t replace my device?
The 3G network will only be available until the end of 2025, after which time it will be shut down within a few weeks. Depending on your device, you will not be able to access some basic functions. For details of the specific limitations that apply to you, please refer to the letter or SMS we sent you.
How can I check if other devices are affected?
If possible, use the device in question to send an SMS stating 3G to the free number 444. The answer will then be sent directly to the device. You can also check supported functions in the Swisscom Cockpit.
Why is my device affected by the 3G shutdown?
Certain generations of devices, as well as some devices purchased abroad, only support 3G mobile network frequencies or do not support calls over 4G/5G. The limitations have nothing to do with the subscription, but with the technical capabilities of the devices.
What will happen with the old device?
Swisscom is supporting a number of sustainability projects. For example, you can donate your old device to the Swisscom Shop for Mobile Aid. Find out more at swisscom.ch/mobileaid
Is Swisscom also planning to shut down 4G in the near future?
Swisscom has not yet set a switch-off date for 4G and will inform at least three years before any 4G switch-off.
You are on the best and most sustainable network with 5G(opens in new tab).