Shutdown of 2G and 3G Networks in Israel: What You Need to Know

The Ministry of Communications in Israel is implementing a strategic plan to gradually shut down 2G and 3G cellular networks, expected to be completed by the end of 2025. This move, which is part of a broader global trend, aims to significantly improve Israel’s communication infrastructure and free up valuable frequency resources for more advanced technologies like 4G and 5G.

💡 Why Are the Old Networks Being Shut Down?

The main reason for shutting down 2G and 3G networks is technological advancement. These networks are outdated and cannot meet the growing demand for high-speed data transmission and modern multimedia services. By shutting them down, telecom operators will be able to:

  • Improve 4G and 5G infrastructure: Reallocate freed radio spectrum to expand and strengthen 4G and 5G networks, resulting in faster browsing speeds and better service quality.
  • Align with global trends: Israel is joining many countries that have already shut down or are in the process of shutting down these legacy networks.
  • Increase operational efficiency: Simplify infrastructure and focus on newer, more cost-effective, and efficient technologies.

🗓️ Key Timelines

The shutdown is being carried out in several phases:

  • From 01/01/2022: Commercial import of devices supporting only 2G/3G was prohibited.
  • From 01/07/2023: New devices can only connect to the network if they support 4G and above (with VoLTE) or if they are IoT/M2M devices supporting NB-IoT and/or LTE-M.
  • From 31/12/2025 (or earlier if decided): 2G and 3G networks will be completely shut down across all mobile operators in Israel. Devices that do not support modern technologies will no longer receive service.

📱 How Will This Affect You?

The shutdown will primarily affect users who still rely on old mobile phones or machine-to-machine (M2M) equipment that operates on 2G or 3G technologies.

  • Mobile phones: Starting from the end of 2025, 2G/3G devices (such as older “basic” phones) will no longer be able to connect to the network or receive services. Even some 4G devices that do not support VoLTE will be affected, as they won’t be able to make or receive voice calls.
  • M2M/IoT equipment: Systems such as electric gates, lighting sensors, irrigation systems, security systems, and similar devices built on old technologies will stop working.
  • Emergency alerts: Life-saving emergency alerts sent to mobile devices in times of crisis may fail to reach or may be unreliable on devices that only support 2G or 3G networks.

✅ How to Prepare?

To avoid service disruptions or inconvenience, it is recommended to take the following steps:

  1. Check your device compatibility:

    • Ensure that your mobile device supports 4G or higher.
    • Make sure the VoLTE feature is enabled on your device.
    • You can check device compatibility on your mobile operator’s website or by contacting customer service (for example, Pelephone allows checking compatibility using the device’s IMEI number).

  2. Upgrade devices and equipment:

    • If you have an old device that doesn’t support 4G/5G or VoLTE, plan to replace it with a modern device before the end of 2025.
    • If you have M2M/IoT equipment that doesn’t support NB-IoT or LTE-M, consider upgrading or replacing it early to avoid service interruptions.

  3. Understand VoLTE:
    VoLTE (Voice over LTE) is a technology that enables high-quality voice calls over the 4G data network, instead of relying on the old 2G/3G voice channels. Enabling VoLTE is essential to ensure continued voice call services after the old networks are shut down.

Early preparation will ensure a smooth transition and uninterrupted communication services.