The shift away from the 3G network band in Belgium
Author: Nico Maes, Product Manager Mobile
Belgium's mobile landscape is at the dawn of a significant transition, as MNOs (Mobile Network Operators) are preparing to retire their 3G networks, making way for the more advanced 4G and 5G technologies. While this transition promises improved speeds and capabilities, it raises pertinent considerations for users with older or basic (smart)phones.
In the current mobile landscape, 4G and 5G technologies have emerged as a widely accepted standards for internet usage. Virtually every modern smartphone is equipped to operate on those bands. Nevertheless, there are still 2,2% older or basic devices in the Belgian networks (BIPT 2022). Such devices continue to depend on the 3G network, which will soon cease to be available from Belgium's telecom providers. The reason behind this shift is the need to optimize the airwaves for the more effective operation of 4G and 5G networks.
Leading this transition, Orange will retire its 3G network by January 2024, followed by Telenet/BASE in September, and Proximus closing the chapter by the close of 2024. Dstny, as an important MVNO player (Mobile Virtual Network Operator), will make the transition in the Summer of 2024.
While 2,2% of the devices seems marginal, we are still talking about around 300.000 devices that will be impacted (worlddata.info) and the impact on those users of older and fundamental smartphones is undeniable.
It's noteworthy that this transition and discontinuation of the 3G network does not extend to the 2G spectrum, which will remain currently operational on the networks in Belgium. This 2G technology is kept as a lot of M2M devices without critical connection requirements remain depended of that band. However it's crucial to underline that mobile internet browsing on this network is at the least impractical or even unusable.
While Belgium is on course towards a 3G-free future, alternative nations may pursue an opposing strategy, safeguarding 3G networks while gradually phasing out 2G networks. This is for example the case in Italy, as noted in recent reports. Which has a impact of course of users going in roaming as there is no standardized approach.
The transitioning to 4G and 5G networks has significant advantages, most notably is the amplified connectivity possibilities. Particularly noteworthy is the use of VoLTE and VoWIFI technologies, which promise energy-efficient voice services and improved indoor coverage. However, in addition of the advantages it is important to know that there will be also another impact on the users and the user behaviour which remains generally underexposed. It is to be expected that there will be a significant increase in data consumption. While older 3G devices typically accommodate lower resolutions (e.g., 480p or even 240p) for applications like Teams, YouTube, and Facebook, the shift to 4G likely entails streaming at HD or Full HD quality. To contextualize, streaming at 240p resolution consumes around 225MB per hour (4MB per minute), while 480p utilizes roughly 563MB per hour (10MB per minute). Opting for HD or Full HD streaming escalates data consumption to the range of 2GB to 6GB per hour (up to 100MB per minute).
In conclusion, as Belgium's 3G network is soon going to cease, users must urgently consider to move to 4G and 5G networks with awareness of both the benefits and the potential increase in their data usage. This move ensures that they're ready for the rapidly evolving digital landscape.
Glossary of used terminology:
MNOs (Mobile Network Operators):
Companies with an own mobile network. In Belgium: BASE/Telenet, Proximus, Orange.
MVNO (Mobile Virtual Network Operator):
A telecommunication company that offers mobile services by leasing network access from established operators, rather than owning its own network infrastructure.
2G network:
Second-generation mobile network technology. 2G was the first network technology introduced in Belgium (around 1995)
3G Network:
Third-generation mobile network technology, offering relatively acceptable data speeds and communication capabilities. Introduced in Belgium around 2004
4G:
Fourth-generation mobile network technology that provides higher data speeds, enhanced connectivity, and improved network efficiency. Introduced in Belgium around 2012.
5G:
Fifth-generation mobile network technology, characterized by ultra-fast data speeds, low latency, and the capacity to simultaneously connect a large number of devices on a single mobile network tower. Introduced in Belgium around 2020.
Smartphones:
Mobile phones with advanced features and capabilities beyond basic calling and texting.
Bands:
Specific frequency ranges used for wireless communication.
BIPT (Belgian Institute for Postal Services and Telecommunications):
The regulatory authority for the Belgian telecommunications and postal sectors.
Airwaves:
The range of frequencies used for wireless communication.
Machine-to-Machine (M2M) Devices:
Devices that can communicate and exchange data with each other without human intervention.
Critical Connection Requirements:
The need for a reliable data connection.
Amplified Connectivity Possibilities:
Expanded opportunities for connecting devices and accessing the internet.
VoLTE (Voice over LTE):
Technology that allows voice calls to be made over 4G LTE networks.
VoWIFI (Voice over Wi-Fi):
Technology that enables voice calls to be made over Wi-Fi networks.
Indoor Coverage:
The ability of a network to provide a signal and connectivity within indoor spaces.
Resolutions:
The clarity and detail of images or videos displayed on a screen.
Streaming:
Transmitting data over a network for real-time viewing or listening.