South Africa Begins Phasing Out Legacy Cellular Networks, Plans Complete Shutdown by 2027

South Africa has initiated the process of decommissioning its legacy cellular networks, starting with the prohibition of new 2G and 3G device sales this year. This move aims to free up valuable network resources, though concerns linger about the potential impact on essential systems.

Legacy networks support various old sensors and machine-to-machine (M2M) and Internet of Things (IoT) systems that activate infrequently to conserve battery life. These devices typically connect briefly to 2G networks to send updates before going dormant again.

MTN South Africa, however, is confident in its ability to manage the transition. “MTN has full visibility of which device types and device capabilities are attaching to the MTN network,” a spokesperson stated. “2G is mainly used to provide voice services and, in some cases, low-speed data connectivity for M2M and legacy IoT devices.”

Vodacom previously indicated no immediate plans to shut down its 2G network, citing the extensive integration of M2M and IoT devices in critical infrastructure such as vehicles, utility plants, and hospitals. MTN SA is working with its M2M and IoT customers to facilitate a smooth transition to 4G technologies, ensuring they have ample time to upgrade before the 2G network is completely shut down.

While the exact number of M2M or IoT subscribers remains undisclosed for competitive reasons, Vodacom reported supporting 10.3 million IoT connections in its latest financial results. MTN is taking a phased approach to the shutdown, running various user migration campaigns to notify affected customers and tailor interventions based on the services consumed.

The Department of Communications and Digital Technologies (DCDT) has set forth a timeline for the shutdown. Operators are expected to start decommissioning legacy networks from 1 June 2025, with a complete shutdown of 2G and 3G services by 31 December 2027. MTN aims to shut down its 3G network by 31 December 2026, though a date for the 2G shutdown has not been specified.

In addition to network shutdowns, the DCDT has established deadlines to ban new 2G and 3G devices. By 30 September 2024, the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa will cease type approvals for new 2G and 3G devices, effectively stopping their sale locally. Existing type-approved devices can still be imported and sold. Furthermore, networks will be prohibited from activating new 2G and 3G devices starting 31 December 2024.

Vodacom supports the government’s tighter control over the import and approval of 2G and 3G devices but cautions against rigid switch-off deadlines. “Vodacom has advocated for an industry-led timeline in response to the challenge of migrating users from legacy (2G/3G terminals) to more digitally enabled 4G/5G devices,” it stated, highlighting the ongoing gradual migration from 2G and 3G to 4G and 5G.

Vodacom estimates that several million 2G and 3G devices, including a few million M2M devices, remain active in South Africa. It hopes the DCDT and other stakeholders will consider industry submissions and customer demand in setting final deadlines for the transition.

The table below summarizes the DCDT’s historical and upcoming deadlines for switching off 2G and 3G in South Africa:

• 30 September 2024: Halt type approvals for new 2G and 3G devices.
• 31 December 2024: Ban network activation of new 2G and 3G devices.
• 1 June 2025: Begin decommissioning legacy networks.
• 31 December 2026: MTN aims to shut down 3G network.
• 31 December 2027: Complete shutdown of 2G and 3G networks.

Main Image: Ookla