Thousands of Mobile Phones in Sweden Blocked from Reaching Emergency Number 112 Due to 2G and 3G Network Shutdown

Starting December 1, 2025, mobile operators Tele2, Tre, and Telenor in Sweden will shut down their 2G and 3G networks, rendering thousands of older mobile devices incapable of reaching the emergency number 112. This move, mandated by the Post- och telestyrelsen (PTS), aims to free up capacity for more modern and efficient 4G and 5G networks.

Users with phones or connected devices that do not support 4G or 5G will no longer be able to make or receive calls, including crucial emergency calls. Tele2 has already informed affected customers via email about the impending block on their devices. PTS has set a deadline for February 2, 2026, by which some phones, even if technically supporting 4G, will be blocked if they still cannot reliably reach emergency services.

Dan Sjöblom, director general of PTS, highlighted the risks: “We cannot accept a situation where users believe their phone service functions normally, only to find they are unable to reach 112 in an emergency.” The authority emphasizes the importance of users being aware of their device’s capabilities and encourages them to upgrade to 4G or 5G compatible phones or switch operators if necessary.

This shutdown is part of Sweden's broader national effort to modernize telecommunications infrastructure and optimize network resources. However, it carries significant implications for user safety and accessibility to emergency services, particularly for those relying on older technology.

Affected users are urged to replace their mobile devices well before the shutdown date to maintain uninterrupted access to emergency services and general mobile communication.