Vietnam to phase out 2G network, how will 'brick phones' fare?

Once cutting-edge, the 2G network is now outdated in the face of the rapid development of newer generations. Telecommunication service providers worldwide are shutting down 2G to free up frequency resources, enhance operational efficiency, and optimize network utilization, providing a better experience for users. So, how does this decision specifically impact? Let's explore its development process and considerations before the 2G network shutdown with Mytour!

The 2G mobile network was first introduced in Finland in 1991

The 2G mobile network stands for the second generation of mobile telecommunication technology. It was first introduced in Finland in 1991 and rapidly deployed worldwide.

2G utilizes digital technology to encode voice and data signals, improving call quality, accelerating data transmission speed, and introducing new services such as Short Message Service (SMS) and Multimedia Messaging Service (MMS).

Common 2G standards include GSM (Global System for Communications) and CDMA (Code Division Multiple Access). GSM, developed mainly in Europe, while CDMA had its primary development in North America. Both standards brought many improvements over 1G, including better sound quality, reduced signal interference through signal encoding, and increased data transmission capabilities.

2G mobile network first appeared in Vietnam in 1993

Introduced in Vietnam in 1993 by MobiFone, the 2G network utilized global 900 MHz and 1800 MHz bands. Providing basic services like calls and messaging, 2G played a crucial role in connecting people in a time when Vietnam was just beginning its economic development, significantly impacting the country's socio-economic progress.

During that period, Vietnam was in the early stages of economic development, and people faced numerous challenges. The launch of MobiFone's 2G network was a significant breakthrough in Vietnam's telecommunications sector. 2G helped connect people more easily and conveniently, playing a role in driving the country's socio-economic development.

Vietnam's 2G mobile network (2nd Generation) underwent a challenging yet successful development journey, playing a crucial role in the telecommunications sector and significantly contributing to people's daily lives.

In the late 1980s, Vietnam recognized the potential of mobile telecommunications and decided to invest in the development of the 2G mobile network. Research and technical preparations were undertaken to ensure the project's success.

MobiFone's project was a pivotal turning point, marking the birth of the first 2G mobile network in Vietnam. Using GSM standards, MobiFone ushered in a new era of mobile services for the community. With MobiFone's emergence, the perception of mobile convenience increased, leading to active competition as other service providers like Vinaphone and Viettel entered the market, driving the development of the 2G network.

Mobile service providers continually invested in expanding coverage and enhancing infrastructure. This not only bolstered service quality but also solidified the 2G network as a vital part of the telecommunications infrastructure, meeting the growing needs of users.

With remarkable technological advancements, Vietnam has transitioned and expanded into advanced mobile generations like 3G, 4G, and 5G. This innovation brings diverse user experiences and high-speed communication, unlocking doors for new applications and services.

Reasons behind shutting down 2G network in Vietnam

The 2G mobile network played a crucial role in connecting communities and contributed significantly to the development of the telecommunications sector in Vietnam. However, the decision to shut down the 2G network was made for various key reasons, aiming to enhance service quality, promote digital transformation, reduce costs for network providers, and enhance network security.

One important reason behind the decision to shut down 2G is to improve service quality. While 2G provides basic calling and messaging capabilities, it lacks in data transmission speed and does not fully meet the diverse needs of users. Transitioning to more advanced mobile generations like 3G, 4G, and 5G helps enhance user experience with high speed and new features.

Shutting down the 2G network also means driving the digital transformation process. New mobile generations offer fast internet connectivity, supporting digital applications and services, from video calls to content streaming. Encouraging users and businesses to shift from 2G to modern mobile networks will boost the development of the digital economy.

Closing the 2G network also brings cost benefits for network providers. Maintaining infrastructure for 2G can become costly, especially when compared to the necessary improvements and upgrades needed for sustaining and developing 3G, 4G, and 5G networks. Reducing costs allows network providers to focus more on delivering quality and modern services.

Removing the 2G network also enhances network security. 2G has limitations in security compared to newer mobile generations, and the transition helps reinforce protection against increasingly complex cybersecurity risks. Higher security standards in newer generations help prevent threats and enhance user safety.

As per the roadmap set by the Ministry of Information and Communications, the 2G network in Vietnam will cease operations from September 2024. Starting December 2023, networks will begin blocking devices that only support 2G. This action will render such devices unable to access mobile networks. Therefore, users utilizing devices limited to 2G should switch to devices supporting 3G, 4G, or 5G before December 31, 2023.

What to do before the government shuts down 2G?

The government's decision to shut down 2G is not just a technical move; it's a significant step in reshaping the lives of millions of mobile users. Faced with the challenges and opportunities this change brings, let's explore who might be affected and how to best prepare for this transition.

Firstly, those loyal to the basic 'brick' mobile phones, lacking support for 3G and above, are facing a major challenge. Inability to use mobile services will require them to change devices, not always an easy task.

Additionally, individuals with low incomes face difficulties transitioning to new devices supporting 3G and above. The cost of upgrading can be a significant challenge for them. Rural or remote areas may be particularly impacted. Updating the new network infrastructure can become a considerable challenge, affecting the community's connectivity and access to information.

Commitment

The 2G network played a vital role in the development of Vietnam's telecommunications. However, as 2G became outdated, it failed to meet the needs of the majority of the population. Therefore, shutting down the 2G network is necessary to advance to the next generation of mobile networks, meeting the increasing demands of the people.

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