Ukrainian mobile operator Lifecell will switch off 3G services in selected settlements across 17 regions from September 3, 2026, refarming its entire 2,100 MHz spectrum allocation in those locations for 4G as it seeks to increase network capacity and improve mobile internet performance.
The move will allow Lifecell to use spectrum previously dedicated to 3G more efficiently for LTE services, with the operator expecting greater bandwidth, faster mobile internet and more stable connectivity during periods of high network demand.
Lifecell refarms 2,100 MHz spectrum for 4G
The transition involves terminating 3G operations at selected sites and reallocating the associated 2,100 MHz frequencies entirely to 4G.
Spectrum refarming allows operators to reuse frequencies originally assigned to older mobile technologies for newer and more widely used network generations.
Rather than maintaining separate spectrum capacity for 3G and 4G, Lifecell will be able to dedicate the affected 2,100 MHz resources to LTE traffic.
The operator said this should increase available network bandwidth and improve connection stability, particularly during peak usage periods.
3G shutdown affects selected settlements in 17 regions
The change will begin on September 3 and cover a number of settlements across 17 Ukrainian regions.
The announcement concerns selected locations rather than a complete nationwide shutdown of Lifecell's 3G network.
The available information does not specify the number of sites or settlements involved, nor does it provide a timetable for a full national 3G retirement.
This distinction is important as operators can progressively refarm spectrum on a location-by-location basis while maintaining legacy services elsewhere where they remain necessary.
Refarming addresses growing mobile data demand
The commercial value of spectrum has changed considerably as mobile internet usage has shifted towards 4G and newer technologies.
Keeping valuable frequencies allocated to networks carrying declining amounts of traffic can limit the capacity available for technologies handling the majority of mobile data demand.
By moving the 2,100 MHz spectrum to LTE, Lifecell can increase the resources available to its 4G network without acquiring additional frequencies.
The approach can provide an immediate capacity benefit in areas where 4G traffic is increasing, while also simplifying the operator's network technology mix over time.
Customers increasingly move away from legacy networks
Progressive 3G retirement has become part of the wider evolution of mobile networks as operators concentrate investment and spectrum on more efficient technologies.
For customers already using compatible 4G devices and SIM cards, the transition should primarily result in additional LTE capacity rather than a fundamental change in how they access mobile services.
The impact on customers still dependent on legacy devices or services will depend on Lifecell's remaining network configuration and migration arrangements.
The available source information does not specify any customer migration requirements associated with the September changes.
Source: MEA Tech Watch Press Reporter
