Vietnam Switches Off 2G Network Nationwide, Accelerating Shift to 5G/6G Era

Viettel, a major telecommunications provider in Vietnam, has switched off its 2G network nationwide. This move is a significant step in line with the country's roadmap to phase out 2G services and reallocate spectrum resources to next-generation technologies, thereby accelerating the deployment of 5G and future 6G networks. Prior to the shutdown, 99 percent of Viettel's customers were already using 4G/5G networks for both voice and data services. However, approximately 750,000 subscribers still need to migrate to 4G/5G-compatible voice services. Other major telecommunications operators are following a similar trajectory. VinaPhone switched off its 2G network on September 15, while MobiFone is scheduled to complete its shutdown on September 16. These operators are aiming to phase out 2G services and efficiently utilize spectrum resources in accordance with the roadmap introduced by telecommunications authorities in 2024. Since October 2024, mobile network operators have stopped providing services to subscribers using devices that only support 2G. While parts of the 2G network were maintained to serve certain 3G and early-generation 4G devices that did not support VoLTE (Voice over LTE), as well as communications in specific areas, the nationwide shutdown has now been implemented. With the shutdown, frequency bands previously used for 2G services, including the 900 MHz band, are being put up for auction for reallocation to newer mobile technologies such as 5G and future 6G. The 2G network was commercially launched worldwide in 1991 and introduced in Vietnam in 1993. After more than three decades, this second-generation mobile network is now making way for newer technologies. The shutdown of 2G services is expected to free up spectrum resources for new mobile technologies, enabling telecommunications operators to expand 5G networks, improve coverage and service quality, and prepare infrastructure for future technologies. This transition is also expected to lead to the gradual phasing out of 3G networks starting from September 2028.