Ukrainian mobile operators plan to gradually disable 3G communication in 2025, IZ writes with reference to the Obozrevatel material. This is due to the transition to more modern 4G technology, which should provide subscribers with faster and more stable access to the Internet. Important changes will occur for customers of Kyivstar, Vodafone and lifecell, as these companies are beginning the gradual dismantling of outdated base stations. The greatest impact will be felt by some users of virtual operators, such as Trimob and LycaMobile.
Kyivstar was the first to announce specific dates for the shutdown. At the end of January 2025, the company will stop operating 3G networks in Smila, and in February – in Lviv, Zhovkva and Vynnyky. In general, 40% of base stations that support 3G are planned to be disconnected during the year, and by the end of 2026, the operator will completely abandon this technology. Vodafone and lifecell are acting less aggressively, but are already conducting test disconnections.
In 2024, lifecell tested the abandonment of 3G in Slavutych, and Vodafone plans a gradual transition to 4G in Dnipro, Odessa and Kovel. At the same time, a partial shutdown of 3G networks is expected in large cities with further expansion of 4G. Experts note that this transition is provoked by the permission to use radio frequencies for new technologies and low demand for 3G.
According to the latest data, only 5% of Kyivstar subscribers still use 3G, while smartphones without 4G support make up less than 2% of customers. The situation is similar at Vodafone, where 12% of subscribers still have old-style SIM cards. However, the most problems are experienced by users of virtual operators who actively offer unlimited 3G for work in remote areas, for example, at dachas.
Recall that we previously wrote that dozens of pirated sites were blocked in Ukraine
