Germany to shut down 2G cell coverage

Second-generation cellular network technology (2G) coverage will shut down across Germany starting in 2028. Here's what it means for mobile phones and cars.

No more 2G in Germany from 2028

Telecommunication companies in Germany have announced plans to shut down 2G cellular coverage from 2028. While Telekom had already announced plans to end coverage starting June 2028, and Vodafone starting September 2028, O2 Telefónica has joined the list of providers and will end 2G coverage starting “end of 2028”.

The 3G network was already shut down across Germany in 2021, and 2G has since been acting as an emergency coverage service. 2G can support mobile phones in transmitting minimal data, e.g., sending an email without an attachment, but it is not suitable for streaming or video calls. 

What does the change mean for phones and cars?

Once the 2G network is shut down, more frequencies will become available for other networks, such as 4G and 5G.

According to the Federal Network Agency (Bundesnetzagentur), there is a 2G antenna connection across 99,78 percent of Germany, a 4G connection across 97,79 percent and a 5G connection across 95,29 percent of the country.

However, the percentage of land in Germany which is covered by a 4G or 5G connection should increase between now and 2028. This means that if you live in an area currently only covered by a 2G connection, you shouldn’t fall into an internet dead zone (Funkloch).

That said, anyone who uses an old mobile phone that is not compatible with 4G or 5G will no longer be able to connect to the internet using this device.  

All cars manufactured in the EU after 2018 are required to have an emergency “eCall” system, which uses modern cellular technology. But if you have a car manufactured before this date, you likely won't be able to use its calling features after the 2G network is shut down.