Luxembourg is preparing to phase out its 2G and 3G mobile networks over the next five years, with mobile phone operator Orange planning to switch off both services by the end of the decade.
The older networks take up a lot of space in the radio spectrum while offering poor performance compared to 4G and 5G. Maintaining them is expensive, and their security is also outdated. Orange Luxembourg has already announced its intention to phase out 3G by the end of this year and 2G by 2030.
The decommissioning of the 2G and 3G network, however, will require careful planning for services that still rely on older technologies, Minister for Media and Connectivity Elisabeth Margue said on Tuesday, in response to a written parliamentary question from Green MP Djuna Bernard.
There are several “critical” services whose connectivity still relies on these older technologies, said Margue. These include certain emergency calls in the event that the 4G or 5G network is unavailable, telephone communication devices used in lifts, and the emergency call - eCall - system installed in many cars. “The eCall system will nevertheless be replaced from 2026 by the NG eCall system based on 4G/5G technology,” the minister said.
She also noted that roaming visitors to Luxembourg using foreign SIM cards currently rely on 2G and 3G networks for voice calls, and operators are implementing measures to ensure a smooth transition.
To ensure continuity for essential services, Orange Luxembourg customers will be informed well in advance of the 2G shutdown to prevent service interruptions, Margue said.
“Regarding SIM cards installed in lifts or other equipment, Orange customers will be informed in advance of the 2G network shutdown, to ensure a smooth and uninterrupted transition,” she said. “Orange Luxembourg has also extended its services to the 4G network, including voice over 4G and emergency calls. Tests have been carried out in collaboration with the relevant authorities (CGDIS) to ensure the continuity of this essential service.”
Margue added that all Luxembourg operators using new mobile networks must “implement the necessary technical and organisational measures to manage the risks linked to the security of networks and services.”Ongoing studies are assessing additional measures to improve telephone access for emergency and security services, Margue said, in a bid to prevent disruptions similar to those caused by the cyberattack on the Post network in the summer, which temporarily knocked out several services.
