Mobile operators are gradually turning off third-generation communications network technologies, or 3G, to free up frequencies for future generations of networks. Some people do not have adequate technologies, including phones that can switch to 4G and 5G technologies, Latvian Television reported.

3G’s shutdown began as early as last year, starting with places with the lowest number of users of the technology.

“3G technology was turned off in Kurzeme last year and earlier this year in Daugavpils, Aizkraukle, Augšdaugava, Bauska, Jēkabpils, Līvāni, Preiļi, and Varakļāni municipalities,” Ilze Saulīte, director of LMT customer service, told LTV.

“The end of April will be the moment the first 3G network stations are shut down. The first municipalities where it will take place are Ludza, Madona, Alūksne, and Balvi,” Oskars Fīrmanis, PR manager at Tele2, said.

While operators point out that the majority of the population will not feel the transition, there is a certain proportion of the public that may be affected by the process.

“There could be customers who have facilities that only have 3G available, no 4G or 5G. If the customer is currently in a place where he or she uses the Internet but slow Internet 3G technology [..] then when this 3G technology is turned off, this equipment will not work – the Internet will not be available,” said Ilze Saulīte.

Oskars Fīrmanis said there are “customers who can have old SIM cards on their mobile phones that only work on the 3G network. If the customer uses mobile data or the Internet on the phone at least a little bit, then after the 3G network is closed, the Internet may not work on the phone”.

However, mobile operators say that only a few Latvian residents will have such problems. 4G and 5G consumption have increased several times in recent years. After a complete 3G shutdown at the end of next year, the next step is also planned to be a 2G shutdown.