MTN plans to close its 3G network by December 31, 2025, a year ahead of its scheduled switch-off date.
This follows a pilot project that the mobile network operator carried out in Cape Town to move users away from 3G in a ring-fenced area.
In a letter to pilot participants, MTN stated that the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies had announced its plan to phase out 2G and 3G networks in September 2022.
”Our customers will be impacted by this process, but MTN is dedicated to making sure the transition has as little impact as possible. MTN will therefore implement the migration in stages.”
In January 2024, MTN provided impacted consumers with information regarding the test operation.
It clarified that MTN would evaluate the initiative when the pilot phase was finished before implementing the 3G migration widely.
”MTN is evaluating the best dates to migrate users on the 2G network, with engagements for this service expected to be communicated in due course.”
MTN confirmed the success of its 3G switch-off pilot and plans to complete the transition from legacy technology by the end of the year.
”MTN is actively moving its customers from outdated 2G and 3G networks to more advanced 4G and 5G technologies,” a representative stated.
”The strategic migration aims to improve customer experience and ensure continued investment in modern, efficient networks.”
MTN announced that the 2024 pilot will cover Durbanville, Greater Melkbosstrand, Cape Town suburbs, and the Milnerton and Bloubergstrand areas in Cape Town.
According to the spokeswoman, “the pilot aimed to assess the migration process and optimise future rollouts.”
”MTN is adopting a phased migration strategy in response to its success, with the whole shift anticipated to be finished by December 31, 2025. MTN is dedicated to providing exceptional connectivity and minimising customer disturbance during this operation.”
Former communications minister Mondli Gungubele’s deadlines for South Africa’s 2G and 3G migration have been suspended due to industry consultations.
Communications minister Solly Malatsi announced that ICASA is conducting an economic impact assessment to minimise the impact of the switch-off.
South Africa is assessing 4G and 5G coverage in areas lacking 4G and 5G coverage, with the possibility of turning off legacy networks once the assessment is complete.
South African telecom companies Vodacom and MTN are urging the government to avoid arbitrary deadlines for legacy network switch-offs, despite the high costs of 4G and 5G devices.
In September 2024, Vodacom introduced the Mobicel S4, a cloud-based phone with 4G capabilities. The cell operator claimed that the device, which costs only R199, offers a “smartphone lite” experience.
MTN’s Icon 5G, launched in November 2024, offers an affordable entry-level smartphone with a 6.6-inch display, 128GB storage, 50MP camera, and 5,000mAh battery. Malatsi plans to reduce 4G and 5G smartphone prices by scrapping ad valorem taxes.
”We are proposing to establish a threshold, but we are not advocating for the elimination of all related luxury goods taxes on smart devices,” Malatsi told MyBroadband.
