Hungary’s Magyar Telekom has stated that its 3G network “will no longer be available anywhere from 1 July”, with phased shutdowns already in effect.
CommsUpdate notes that the operator had already laid out its roadmap for its 3G shutdown, and this statement confirms its previously announced timeframe. Magyar Telekom noted that it has sent phased SMS alerts directly to “the most affected customers”, which it describes as “those who have recently been using the mobile Internet on the 3G network and would not be able to reach it after disconnection due to their device settings, old SIM card or use of a device with up to 3G capability.”
As Hungary’s operators continue the shutdown of their 3G networks, the country’s regulator NMHH has implemented a legacy device replacement scheme. Owners of 3G devices can claim cash subsidies to upgrade to 4G/5G devices before 17th July.
Magyar Telekom has justified phasing out its 3G network, noting that its 4G network offers near-nationwide coverage and better user experience for voice and data traffic and arguing that its 2G network can be used for voice calls previously carried its 3G network – around 2.3% of its total voice traffic. In terms of data, the 3G network accounts for just 0.84% of the operator’s total.