The network is about to completely turn off 2G in Vietnam

In mid-July, some Viettel subscribers received a message informing them to turn on 4G/5G or VoLTE call mode. The network recommends that users check and activate features on their phones to avoid interruption of voice service when turning off the 2G network.

According to the roadmap, the 2G network in Vietnam is expected to stop operating completely in September, ending mobile technology that has been used for more than three decades.

Previously, according to the frequency band planning of the Ministry of Information and Communications (now the Ministry of Science and Technology), from October 16, 2024, telecommunications businesses have stopped providing services to terminal devices that only support GSM (2G) standards, except for some special areas such as Truong Sa and Hoang Sa islands and DK rigs. Phone users that only support 2G are forced to switch to devices with 3G or higher to use the service. However, the 2G network was not turned off immediately but continued to be maintained for another two years to support groups using older 3G and 4G phones that do not have LTE-based voice features (VoLTE). This transition period gives users more time to upgrade devices or switch services.

VoLTE is a technology that allows making calls directly on the 4G network without having to switch down to 2G. Technology helps shorten call connection time, improve sound quality, and users can still access high-speed Internet during calls.

For most genuine smartphones sold in recent years, VoLTE has been built-in and enabled by default. However, some older models or laptops may not be supported or have not been activated. Meaning, every time there is an incoming or outgoing call, the phone will switch back to 2G network mode to make it. Therefore, after turning off the 2G network, a phone that does not support VoLTE, or has this feature but has not activated it, may not be able to make and receive calls, although it can still access the Internet using the 4G network.

There are currently no statistics on the number of people still using devices that do not have or have not enabled VoLTE in Vietnam.

A network operator representative said that completely turning off 2G will not affect the majority, because the majority have switched to supported phones during the transition process that has lasted nearly two years.

However, to avoid service interruption after 2G shutdown, users are recommended to check whether their phone supports VoLTE and enable 4G/5G Calling (VoLTE) feature in mobile network settings.

If the device does not support VoLTE, users need to upgrade to a new phone. In case you cannot determine whether the device is compatible, users can contact the operator's switchboard or transaction store for support in checking.

According to the management agency, stopping operation of the 2G network helps complete the technology transformation process, helping the network reuse the spectrum to expand coverage, improve 4G and 5G service quality, and bring users to the digital environment, the foundation for new generation digital services.

Luu Quy