Latest news with #Giffgaff
The Irish Sun
5 days ago
- Business
- The Irish Sun
Mobile network service closing down in ANOTHER area as list of locations where customers are blocked from internet grows
O2 has revealed the latest area where major network changes are coming in a matter of weeks. The mobile operator has started closing down a long-running service this year to make way for faster data. Advertisement 2 O2 has already closed 3G in four areas Credit: Alamy 2 Other networks like Giffgaff will be affected too Credit: Getty Sky Mobile, Tesco Mobile and Giffgaff - which use O2's masts - are also affected by the move. It's all part of a wider plan agreed with Government to rip out old 3G and replace it with 4G and 5G. Virgin Media O2 is the last of the big four - O2, EE, Vodafone and Three - to discontinue the 3G network. The firm's work kickstarted in the city of Durham back in April, and has gradually followed with Norwich, Telford, Guildford, and Torquay. Advertisement Now bosses have announced the next area that will see 3G disappear as Watford. The withdrawal is due to take place on September 17. It's only expected to affect a small number of customers who have older phones not capable of handling 4G or 5G technology. These handsets can still make calls and send texts via the even older 2G (which isn't closing down). Advertisement But data will no longer work, meaning no internet or use of apps like WhatsApp when out and about. The only time they can get online is when they're connected to a Wi-Fi connection. Most modern smartphones bought in the last 10 years will continue to work as normal with 4G and 5G. Here's the full list of areas that have lost (or will lose) 3G: Advertisement City of Durham Norwich Telford Guildford Torquay Watford "Switching off our 3G network will enable us to focus our investment on upgrading faster, more reliable and more energy-efficient 4G and 5G networks, giving our customers a better overall experience," said Jeanie York, Virgin Media O2's Chief Technology Officer. "Following on from successful switch-offs in Durham, Norwich, Telford, Guildford and Torquay, we're now turning our attention to Watford, which will have 3G withdrawn on 17 September. "We know that the vast majority of our customers already have a 4G or 5G handset and will not have to take any action, and we're writing directly to those who will be impacted to provide guidance and support. "While customers without a 4G or 5G device in Watford are particularly urged to take swift action, regardless of where you live in the UK, you will need to upgrade very soon in order to continue using mobile data after 3G is switched off." Advertisement
Scottish Sun
5 days ago
- Business
- Scottish Sun
Mobile network service closing down in ANOTHER area as list of locations where customers are blocked from internet grows
Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) O2 has revealed the latest area where major network changes are coming in a matter of weeks. The mobile operator has started closing down a long-running service this year to make way for faster data. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 2 O2 has already closed 3G in four areas Credit: Alamy 2 Other networks like Giffgaff will be affected too Credit: Getty Sky Mobile, Tesco Mobile and Giffgaff - which use O2's masts - are also affected by the move. It's all part of a wider plan agreed with Government to rip out old 3G and replace it with 4G and 5G. Virgin Media O2 is the last of the big four - O2, EE, Vodafone and Three - to discontinue the 3G network. The firm's work kickstarted in the city of Durham back in April, and has gradually followed with Norwich, Telford, Guildford, and Torquay. Now bosses have announced the next area that will see 3G disappear as Watford. The withdrawal is due to take place on September 17. It's only expected to affect a small number of customers who have older phones not capable of handling 4G or 5G technology. These handsets can still make calls and send texts via the even older 2G (which isn't closing down). But data will no longer work, meaning no internet or use of apps like WhatsApp when out and about. The only time they can get online is when they're connected to a Wi-Fi connection. Most modern smartphones bought in the last 10 years will continue to work as normal with 4G and 5G. Here's the full list of areas that have lost (or will lose) 3G: City of Durham Norwich Telford Guildford Torquay Watford "Switching off our 3G network will enable us to focus our investment on upgrading faster, more reliable and more energy-efficient 4G and 5G networks, giving our customers a better overall experience," said Jeanie York, Virgin Media O2's Chief Technology Officer. "Following on from successful switch-offs in Durham, Norwich, Telford, Guildford and Torquay, we're now turning our attention to Watford, which will have 3G withdrawn on 17 September. "We know that the vast majority of our customers already have a 4G or 5G handset and will not have to take any action, and we're writing directly to those who will be impacted to provide guidance and support. "While customers without a 4G or 5G device in Watford are particularly urged to take swift action, regardless of where you live in the UK, you will need to upgrade very soon in order to continue using mobile data after 3G is switched off."
The Sun
5 days ago
- Business
- The Sun
Mobile network service closing down in ANOTHER area as list of locations where customers are blocked from internet grows
O2 has revealed the latest area where major network changes are coming in a matter of weeks. The mobile operator has started closing down a long-running service this year to make way for faster data. 2 2 Sky Mobile, Tesco Mobile and Giffgaff - which use O2's masts - are also affected by the move. It's all part of a wider plan agreed with Government to rip out old 3G and replace it with 4G and 5G. Virgin Media O2 is the last of the big four - O2, EE, Vodafone and Three - to discontinue the 3G network. The firm's work kickstarted in Durham back in April, and has gradually followed with Norwich, Telford, Guildford, and Torquay. Now bosses have announced the next area that will see 3G disappear as Watford. The withdrawal is due to take place on September 17. It's only expected to affect a small number of customers who have older phones not capable of handling 4G or 5G technology. These handsets can still make calls and send texts via the even older 2G (which isn't closing down). But data will no longer work, meaning no internet or use of apps like WhatsApp when out and about. The only time they can get online is when they're connected to a Wi-Fi connection. Most modern smartphones bought in the last 10 years will continue to work as normal with 4G and 5G. Here's the full list of areas that have lost (or will lose) 3G: Norwich Telford Guildford Torquay Watford "Switching off our 3G network will enable us to focus our investment on upgrading faster, more reliable and more energy-efficient 4G and 5G networks, giving our customers a better overall experience," said Jeanie York, Virgin Media O2's Chief Technology Officer. "Following on from successful switch-offs in Durham, Norwich, Telford, Guildford and Torquay, we're now turning our attention to Watford, which will have 3G withdrawn on 17 September. "We know that the vast majority of our customers already have a 4G or 5G handset and will not have to take any action, and we're writing directly to those who will be impacted to provide guidance and support. "While customers without a 4G or 5G device in Watford are particularly urged to take swift action, regardless of where you live in the UK, you will need to upgrade very soon in order to continue using mobile data after 3G is switched off."
The Sun
03-08-2025
- Business
- The Sun
One of UK's biggest mobile networks is shutting service TOMORROW leaving some Brits with NO internet
Jamie Harris, Assistant Technology and Science Editor Published: Invalid Date, A MAJOR network provider with millions of customers continues a massive service switch off in just hours. Those affected won't be able to use the internet when they're out and about unless they upgrade their phone. 1 O2 has been pressing on with plans to shut down its old 3G network technology. The other main networks - EE, Vodafone and Three - have already got rid of theirs, as part of a joint agreement made with the Government in 2021. O2's 3G switch off has already gone ahead in Durham, Norwich, Telford and Guildford. But now Torquay is the next spot to lose 3G. The move not only affects O2, but also other firms that run off its masts, including Giffgaff, Tesco Mobile and Sky Mobile. For most customers it won't make any difference - if anything it'll make space for more faster 4G and 5G kit. But some older smartphones may not be 4G or 5G compatible. While they'll still be able to make calls and send texts, they no longer get access to data. Virgin Media O2's 3G network carries less than 2 per cent of all network data now. The operator is already writing directly to all customers currently without a 4G or 5G handset, offering free compatible devices for known vulnerable customers and discounts on new handsets for all others. O2 Ends Pay-As-You-Go Data and iPad SIM Services: What You Need to Know Bosses have also announced that they're working with charity Age UK to help raise awareness and support. "The 3G switch-off may feel daunting for many older people so it's important that we do all we can to support those affected," said Caroline Abrahams, Charity Director at Age UK. 'We're very grateful for this funding from Virgin Media O2 as this will enhance our services, including our Advice Line, so that older customers can get the help needed when 3G is switched off. 'It's important to note that for those using a 3G network who don't wish to change their handset, for now they will still be able to make phone calls and send texts as they do today – it's just their mobile data this change will affect. 'Anyone who is feeling worried and would like some support can get in touch with their provider to find out more about their options and make sure they are ready for the change, or they can call Age UK's Advice Line for free on 0800 169 65 65." Which mobile networks are affected by the 3G switch off? Mobile networks affected by O2's 3G switch off: -O2 - Tesco Mobile - Sky Mobile - GiffGaff Networks which have already switched off 3G: - Vodafone - Asda Mobile - Lebara - Talk Mobile - Voxi - EE - 1pMobile - Ecotalk - IQ Mobile - Lycamobile - Mozillion - RWG Mobile - Spusi - Talk Home - Utility Warehouse - Your Co-op - Three - iD Mobile, Smarty - Honest Mobile - Superdrug How to check if your device is affected Smartphones bought in the last 10 years are unlikely to be affected by the switch off. However, if you are still unsure, you can do a simple trick to check. Click on the settings page on your phone and search for Network Mode or Preferred Network. If you spot 4G or 5G listed, then you will be unaffected by the switch off. IS THE SWITCH OFF THAT BIG OF A DEAL? Analysis by Jamie Harris, Assistant Technology and Science Editor at The Sun It's unclear exactly how many people will be affected by the 3G switch off. There wasn't much noise after Three, EE and Vodafone ended 3G. So, there will undoubtedly be some still using 3G-only phones but the numbers are probably very small. Just because it may be a small figure doesn't mean those people should be cast aside, especially if they're not very tech-savvy or vulnerable. So definitely get in contact with O2 (or GiffGaff and Tesco Mobile) if you need support, or Age UK.
Daily Record
01-08-2025
- Business
- Daily Record
Ignore the rumoured iPhone 17 - Sky's iPhone 16e deal is almost unmissable
The iPhone 16e is Apple's latest budget smartphone, taking all the best parts of a phone but at a much cheaper price - and Sky has just dropped the monthly price of the device The iPhone 17 is on the horizon, with many rumours and leaks already circulating. It seems that Apple is set to significantly revamp the design of the phone, with speculation suggesting a new iPhone 17 Air could be in the pipeline. However, as many of us are aware, these newly designed iPhones will likely come with a hefty price tag upon release. Instead, we've unearthed a deal for those who desire all the functionality of an iPhone but at a more affordable cost. The iPhone 16e is Apple's latest budget-friendly handset, offering the best features of an iPhone 16 but at a lower price. Sky has reduced the monthly cost of the device to just £18 in time for payday. For £18 per month, customers will receive a 6.1‐inch Super Retina XDR display, extended battery life, the A18 chip onboard, and a 48MP camera to capture all the photos any Apple fan could ever need. Essentially, it's a watered-down iPhone 16, but at a cheaper price, and it still boasts some of the best aspects of the iPhone. Those in the market for a new mobile, there have been several appealing options available. The newest Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7 could be an option, and prices kick off at £44.99 a month. Alternatively, there are always Apple's devices as well. Giffgaff offers the newer iPhone 16 Pro for £24 per month, though there's a slightly higher initial cost of £25 upfront, allowing shoppers to split the price into smaller payments. One shopper recently switched to the new device, and said: "I upgraded from my old iPhone and wow, what a difference. The screen is edge-to-edge, and the battery capacity is impressive. It's well worth the cost as it's the cheapest iPhone that has been produced in some time." Another buyer simply remarked: "Very impressed with battery life on this phone." Nevertheless, one customer did observe: "The phone is ideal for my needs, long life on battery. Although I did need to buy an adapter to charge, I will also need one to use my non-wireless earphones." Technology experts also examined the iPhone 16e on the Daily Express upon its launch, it features some premium capabilities of an iPhone 16 without the hefty price tag. Technology editor Dave Snelling commented: "Apple's new iPhone 16e should definitely not be ignored. This is a great smartphone that packs quite a punch for a much cheaper price than its siblings. "No, it doesn't get all of the features found on the iPhone 16 or iPhone 16 Pro, but if things such as Camera Control and MagSafe don't really bother you, then this is a solid device to consider. What you do get is a beautifully made phone that is built for the future and the next generation of Apple Intelligence updates." He did caution that the iPhone 16e isn't a full-fledged iPhone - and it's something Apple enthusiasts should bear in mind. He further stated: "Just be aware that its lower cost means fewer features. You'll need to decide what really matters to you and what compromises you are prepared to make."
