Did you know that the 2G network is being shut down in Norway?
The 2G network will be shut down with Telia first out in August 2025, and Telenor will follow . This development affects everyone who still uses equipment dependent on 2G technology.
Soolo offers modern remote sensing solutions that work independently of 2G. We have a promotion that lasts until September 1st. You will soon understand why it is urgent to act before that date.
Who will be affected by the shutdown of the 2G network?
Any gadgets or services that exclusively support 2G will stop working when the network is turned off. Without an available network, there is a sudden stop. Both Telia and Telenor are clear about this: “Mobile phones, modems and IoT solutions that communicate via the 2G network will no longer work” after the shutdown ( telia.no ). Therefore, such equipment must be replaced or upgraded to use newer mobile networks (4G/5G) to avoid a complete stop.
Here are some examples of what may be affected:
- Industrial IoT equipment and sensors: Sensors and telemetry equipment that report data via the mobile network – everything from water meter readers to weather stations. Much of this equipment has in recent years migrated to 4G-based IoT technology (NB-IoT, LTE-M, etc.), but if some devices still only have 2G, they will be blind after the shutdown. Nkom highlights water and sewage monitoring systems and flood and landslide warning equipment as examples of critical things that must not be forgotten. In short: Anything that only communicates via 2G must be replaced or upgraded.
- Older mobile phones (without 4G): If you have an old “button phone” that only supports 2G (GSM) for calls and text messages, it will lose mobile coverage.
- Alarm and security systems: Many older alarms use the mobile network to send emergency signals, such as security alarms for the elderly, security alarms in elevators, home alarms or medical alarms. If these are equipped with only a 2G sim/modem, they will stop working when 2G is switched off ( teksiden.no ).
- “Call the Cabin Warm” and smart home devices: Do you have a cabin where you can remotely control the heater or alarm via your mobile phone? Older versions of such solutions (often called “call the cabin warm”) often use SMS over the 2G network. These need to be upgraded to modern versions that support new networks.
- Cars with eCall emergency system: Modern cars have an automatic emergency call system (eCall) that calls 112 in the event of a serious accident. Some cars from the 2010s use 2G for eCall. When 2G disappears, the car will not be able to automatically call the emergency center in the event of an accident.
Why you should switch to Soolo tank monitoring now?
At Soolo, we focus on the 2G shutdown because many people still use equipment that uses 2G, often without knowing it. Especially in tank monitoring (remote reading and monitoring), many installations have traditionally relied on GSM/2G technology. This applies to everything from level measurement in tanks to remote control of pumps, alarm systems and other IoT solutions.
At Soolo, we offer modern remote tank monitoring that utilize today's mobile networks and IoT technology, so you are prepared for the future. The benefits of upgrading to Soolo's solution now include:
Avoid service interruptions : By replacing 2G-dependent equipment in advance, you ensure that your measurements or services continue uninterrupted when the 2G network goes down. No one wants, for example, a level gauge on a diesel tank or a water well to suddenly stop reporting because the mobile network is gone.
Better functionality : Our new sensors and systems leverage robust LTE-M/NB-IoT communications that are not only more reliable, but often provide more data and better insights. You get a continuous overview of your levels and systems – without worrying about outdated technology.
Increased security : Newer equipment has modern security mechanisms, encryption and stability that surpass old GSM-based boxes. You reduce the risk of errors and get faster notification if something is abnormal.
Energy savings : The new mobile networks are far more energy efficient. Modern locators often have better battery life and lower power consumption than older 2G devices – a plus for operations and the environment.
Campaign and support from us : Right now, we at Soolo are running a campaign until September 1st where we are offering favorable conditions for switching to our remote sensing solution. We know that the time until the 2G shutdown is running fast, especially for Telia customers who will lose coverage as early as August. That is why we want to help as many people as possible switch to a future-oriented solution before problems arise. Contact us and we will find the best upgrade package for your needs – and make the switch as smooth as possible.
Bottom line
The 2G network is dying, and it concerns far more than just nostalgic “oldies” of some mobile phones. If you have sensors in your company today that use 2G, you should upgrade now. Telia will turn off its network in a few months, and Telenor will follow in a couple of years – so no one will escape in the end ( teksiden.no ).
Fortunately, there are good alternatives. By upgrading to Soolo tank monitoring today, you get a solution that is future-proof and secure when 2G is switched off. And with our campaign before September 1st, you also get a great deal on top of that.
Please contact us at Soolo for a chat about how we can help you with the transition.
What is the 2G network?
2G, also known as GSM, represents the second generation of mobile networks. In Norway, Televerket (now Telenor) introduced the GSM system in 1993, which for the first time made it possible for Norwegians to send SMS to each other ( Telenor ).
Throughout the 1990s and 2000s, 2G mobile networks dominated voice and text messaging. This technology laid the foundation for the mobile everyday life we know today.
Over time, operators introduced newer generations such as 3G, 4G and now 5G, which have given us mobile broadband, streaming and higher speeds.
Today, the 2G network is over 30 years old. In the technology world, it is considered ripe for retirement, and operators are therefore planning to phase it out in favor of more modern and efficient networks.
Why is the 2G network being phased out?
All technology has a lifespan, and now the 2G network is approaching its end as part of the modernization of mobile networks. Here are the most important reasons why operators are phasing out 2G:
1. Few use 2G today
Traffic on the 2G network has become minimal, as most customers have long since switched to 4G and 5G .
2. Need for frequencies for 4G and 5G
2G occupies valuable frequencies in the mobile network. In order to offer new and better services over 4G and 5G, operators need to free up these frequencies. By switching off 2G, they can reuse the frequency bands for modern networks .
3. Better coverage and capacity
4G and 5G networks offer much better coverage, capacity, and speed than 2G networks, and can handle far more devices connected at the same time. This gives users a much better experience – from clearer calls to faster internet .
4. Increased stability and security
Modern mobile networks are more robust and secure. For example, users experience fewer errors and less downtime in 4G and 5G than in the old 2G network. This is important both for consumers and for critical services that use the mobile network .
5. Lower energy consumption and better for the environment
2G technology is not very energy efficient. New networks are up to five times more energy efficient than the old ones. Phasing out 2G thus also contributes to a more climate-friendly operation of mobile networks .
In comparison, the 3G network was already shut down in Norway in 2021. The shutdown of 2G is therefore the final step in the upgrade to a fully digital everyday life with 4G and 5G. As Telenor explains, they want to modernize the network and reuse the frequencies currently reserved for 2G for 4G and 5G . It is simply no longer appropriate to operate a separate network for a handful of old phones and gadgets.