Why Most Countries Are Struggling to Shut Down 2G Networks
Last November, a significant shift in mobile technology impacted countless lives, including that of Nguyen Thi Que, a 73-year-old iced tea vendor in Hanoi. Her mobile phone, reliant on Vietnam’s 2G network, suddenly ceased functioning as the country completed its permanent shutdown. Facing an unexpected disruption, Ms. Que articulated a common dilemma: “I thought of buying a new phone, but I don’t have money.” This challenge underscores a critical hurdle for many nations worldwide as they attempt to decommission outdated 2G technology, impacting vulnerable populations and highlighting the complexities of network modernization.
The Hurdles to Sunsetting Legacy Mobile Networks
While many countries face an uphill battle, Vietnam’s experience offers a compelling case study in successful 2G decommissioning. Their strategy was straightforward yet impactful: provide free 4G feature phones to low-income 2G consumers, enabling a smooth transition and addressing the financial barrier. This targeted approach significantly reduced 2G subscribers from over 18 million in January 2024 to a mere 143,000 by November of the same year. Such decisive action has placed Vietnam among a growing list of nations, including Australia, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, the UAE, Brunei, Switzerland, Costa Rica, and Jamaica, that have fully transitioned away from 2G technology. However, the path isn’t as clear for others. According to GSMA Intelligence, the research arm of a leading telecom industry group, a staggering 61 countries are currently grappling with plans or have initiated the process to shut down their 2G networks. This includes major economies like the U.S., Brazil, India, China, and significantly for the African tech context, South Africa. The primary struggle for these nations often revolves around the pervasive digital divide, where the cost of new devices remains a formidable obstacle for millions, echoing Ms. Que’s predicament. Ensuring equitable access to modern mobile services without leaving a substantial portion of the population disconnected requires robust and inclusive strategies that address both infrastructure and user affordability.
The global push to retire 2G networks is a necessary step for freeing up spectrum for faster, more efficient technologies like 5G and beyond. Yet, the ongoing challenge for a majority of countries lies in bridging the gap between technological advancement and socio-economic realities. As Vietnam’s success demonstrates, comprehensive strategies that prioritize consumer affordability and accessibility are paramount for a smooth and inclusive transition. Without such measures, many nations will continue to struggle in their efforts to fully shut down these legacy networks, perpetuating a digital divide for those most reliant on them.
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