Mobile network sunset: trends, regional variations and implications for IoT

Time is nearly up for networks using earlier cellular standards, predominantly GSM and its variants on 2G and UMTS on 3G. Operators are increasingly looking to optimise their network operations and costs while being conscious of the spectral efficiency multiple to be gained if 4G and 5G were deployed in existing legacy technology bands. They are taking the opportunity presented by licence renewals and re-auctions to refarm spectrum to 4G and 5G. The winners are smartphone users supporting modern air interface technologies on these legacy bands; the more obvious losers are subscribers who have avoided smartphones in favour of older-generation feature phones and IoT devices with legacy 2G modems. As network sunsets peak in 2022, however, additional user groups will be affected by the retirement of 2G and 3G.