Switching off 3G

Following guidance from the UK government for networks to turn off their 3G service to focus on building better 4G and 5G to give you the best possible service. Like other networks, SMARTY (who is powered by Three) no longer supports 3G.

Our 3G network has now been switched off across most of the UK.

We aim to switch it off entirely by November 2025.

From November 2025, 3G coverage will no longer be available; however, our aim is to make 4G and 5G coverage available and better in as many areas as possible.

To continue enjoying use of calls, SMS and data service in 4G/5G areas, you need to make sure you have a compatible device:

For data: your device must be 4G compatible

For phone/voice calls: your device must be a 4G Calling (also known as VoLTE) device, compatible with the SMARTY network - some older 4G devices do not have 4G Calling and some 4G Calling devices that are not compatible with SMARTY are listed here.

For 3G devices: calls, data, and SMS will no longer be available.

Check that your area has 4G/5G coverage here.

There may be limited areas where our 4G or 5G networks aren’t available. You won’t be able to use your call, data, or text services in these areas on any devices.

Need a new device?

If your device is not compatible and your area is covered by 4G and/or 5G, you need to upgrade your device to continue enjoying our network.

However, there are more affordable ways to do this than you might think. For example, SMARTY is partnered with Reboxed®, where you can benefit from exclusive SMARTY customer discounts on a refurbished phone.

Our friends at Three also offer device and airtime bundles and are giving SMARTY customers up to 20% off selected 24-month Airtime plans when you sign up to pay for your new phone with Three over 12, 24 or 36 months at 0% APR. Shop here.

You can also buy low-cost, SIM-free compatible devices at most online and high-street tech retailers, just remember, it needs to be unlocked, a minimum of 4G-VoLTE compatible and not listed here.

Have some questions?

We know all the G's can be confusing, so here are some FAQs you may find handy in this help & support article.

SMARTY Team
  • SMARTY Team
  • SMARTY
  • August 6th, 2025