So, 3G is making room for its successor 4G. The frequencies currently still occupied by 3G, will give 4G extra power in future. Newer versions of mobile networks also get more 'space' when 3G makes way. Like Vodafone 4G+ and 5G. It sounds like good news. But what does it mean for customers?
4G everywhere
When 3G is gone, they will have more and improved coverage through 4G. In remote areas you sometimes only have a 3G signal at present. In the new year, in many of such places mobile internet will become a fraction better.
Age check
What about any disadvantages? That depends on the age of your handset. The 4G network was rolled out in 2013. If you have a phone dating back to previous years, it’s probably not equipped for 4G. This means that you will not be able to use mobile internet once 3G is off the air. For customers who want to be sure that their phone remains in working order, we have the handset check (in Dutch).
Switch your SIM
Another thing to check: how old is your SIM card? If it hasn't been replaced in the last ten years, it's high time you get a new one. Ordered in a sec, at no extra cost. The last thing you might have to do, is adjust the settings of your phone, so it's geared to 4G. This is also done in two ticks.
Enjoy
Old phones, even older SIMs – chances are that your smartphone and SIM card are already using 4G as it should… and have done so for years. In that case you will only benefit even more. The end of 3G will bring the Netherlands much faster, safer and stabler mobile internet.
Read more about GigaNet, the network of Vodafone and Ziggo