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In only over a month left, the network operators will have to turn off the 2G signal framework according to the proposed plan. At this point, there are still a relatively large number of 2G subscribers. According to statistics, there are still over ten million 2G subscribers nationwide. Therefore, in just over a month, the network operators will have to race against time to help customers switch from 2G to 4G and 5G systems.

In a roadmap

According to the Telecommunications Bureau, the Ministry of Information and Communications, this unit will strictly implement measures to compel network operators to adopt policies to promote the migration of 2G subscribers to 4G and 5G. Based on Circular No. 03/2024/TT-BTTTT and Circular No. 04/2024/TT-BTTTT on the planning of the 900MHz/1800MHz frequency bands, the Ministry of Information and Communications will not reissue licenses for the use of the 900MHz/1800MHz frequency bands if businesses do not have a plan to ensure that there are no subscribers using 2G Only terminal devices operating on the network from September 16, 2024. Therefore, mobile businesses are strongly advised to vigorously implement communication solutions and support conversions to ensure the rights of the aforementioned subscribers, if they wish to continue allocating the 900MHz/1800MHz frequency bands.

2G network plan of the Ministry of Information and Communications (illustration)

During the conversation with our reporters, Mr. Le Tuan Anh, Director of the Department of Information and Communications of the province, said that the department has proposed various agencies and units to implement the propaganda to stop the use of 2G mobile technology through multiple forms; focusing on disseminating the policies, orientations, and plans to stop the use of 2G mobile technology to the people who are currently using 2G phones. (the age, paying attention to remote areas, deep areas, the target users are the elderly, ethnic minorities...) so that people can grasp the policy, the roadmap to stop 2G mobile technology and actively switch to using 4G and above technology phones.

The 2G mobile technology shutdown plan will be implemented in two phases: By September 2024, no more services will be provided for 2G Only subscribers, but the 2G network will still be maintained until September 2026 to fulfill certain tasks. These tasks include machine-to-machine connectivity and serving subscribers using 4G phones that do not fully support VoLTE calls. They will use the 2G network to make calls and send messages as usual, ensuring quality for users. With essential calls, all networks ensure continued maintenance, without any interruptions.

So, mobile phone subscribers using 2G-only devices will still be able to use the service until September 15, 2024. Subscribers using 3G/4G SIM cards and devices supporting 3G/4G technology or higher will continue to operate normally.

To assist subscribers

Currently, to support 2G-Only subscribers to continue using services, telecommunication networks in the province have implemented various programs such as free SIM card replacement; exempting or reducing fees for upgrading devices based on each case and different service needs.

Viettel offers a program to support its customers

According to Mr. Huynh Minh Nhut, Director of VNPT Binh Duong Business Center, in order to ensure the rights of customers, maintain communication and support customers in switching from 2G to 4G/5G phones, VNPT Binh Duong is implementing the program "Giving smartphones to customers using Vinaphone mobile network on 2G phones". Customers coming to Vinaphone transaction points to replace 4G SIM cards will be exempt from SIM card replacement fees, receive 15GB of high-speed 4G internet data for trial use, and enjoy additional special incentives from VNPT: 4G phone gifting program (applicable to customers receiving SMS); gifting 30GB of data in the first month for customers to experience digital utilities; attractive discounted packages.

Vinaphone also collaborates with supermarkets and large phone stores to implement preferential policies when people switch and upgrade from 2G to 3G/4G/5G devices. In addition, Vinaphone customers who are using 2G SIM cards will receive free SIM card replacement and a bonus of 15GB high-speed 4G data for internet service when they visit Vinaphone transaction points to replace their SIM cards with 4G ones.

Meanwhile, Mr. Than Van Viet, Deputy Director of Viettel's Personal Customer Department in Binh Duong, said that in August 2024, Viettel will enhance the quality of services in 9 districts and cities in the province. Therefore, it may affect the usage of services for customers using 2G mobile phones. To avoid service interruption during usage, customers need to switch to 4G mobile phones. To support customers in upgrading to 4G mobile phones, Viettel also offers many preferential policies.

Speaking about the support plan for customers of Mobifone network, Mr. Tran Thanh Phuc, Director of Binh Duong Branch, said that Mobifone is implementing many support programs such as free 4G sim exchange for subscribers using 2G, 3G sim; at the same time, giving a data package worth 30,000 VND (30 GB/7 days) when exchanging to 4G SIM.

The purpose of shutting down 2G networks is to encourage 100% of the population to use smartphones to access a wide range of digital services; help the government free up spectrum for outdated technologies and switch to new technologies that bring higher efficiency. At the same time, digital society, digital economy, and digital government are promoted to help people switch to using high-quality 4G, 5G broadband services; help businesses remove outdated technology from the network, reduce operating costs, and contribute to the development of green technology.

Reported by Minh Hieu – Tran Minh – Translated by Vi Bao