Research by the BIPT(Belgian Institute for Postal Services and Telecommunications) shows that only a fraction of mobile data in Belgium is still sent over the 3G network. In contrast, 4G and 5G are gaining ground all over the world, but struggle with the limited bandwidth available. Operators worldwide are therefore making the switch: 3G and 2G are being phased out in order to fully commit to the more efficient and high-performance networks. What does that mean for your IoT solutions?
First of all, Calculus users can rest assured: all of our gateways (CO4, C06 and C07) are connected to the 4G network, which is expected to remain in service for another decade or so. Moreover, most of our devices are also ready for the switch to a 5G network once it is on point. Those working with other IoT systems should check with their software provider about which network their devices use to transmit data.
How soon will 2G and 3G be phased out?
Worldwide, there are already some countries where the 3G network is no longer available, including the Netherlands. Most telecom providers in Belgium will gradually transition away from 3G during the year 2024.
Proximus is aiming for the end of the year. At Telenet/BASE the phase-out begins as early as September. Orange began a gradual phase-out as early as January and expects a complete phase-out in the course of the year 2025.
The 2G network will remain active for a little longer. Devices will still be able to use it at least until 2027. That gives older phones in particular the opportunity to remain usable for a while, although most new cell phones already support the use of 4G or 5G.
What does the discontinuation of 2G and 3G mean for IoT applications?
Once the network to which your measuring devices are connected is discontinued, they can no longer send data. When 3G is discontinued, it may be possible to switch to the 2G network. Importantly, however, that network is much slower than 3G and 4G. Moreover, a discontinuation of 2G lurks around the corner, so switching to that network is only a temporary solution.
Ideally, you should switch to a system that uses the 4G network, or even 5G. The implementation of the latter - at least in Belgium - is not yet complete. Telecom providers are, however, progressively deploying the network from densely populated to less densely populated areas. By making the switch to 4G or 5G, you can immediately explore new opportunities to further optimize your operation.
Our IoT solutions use 4G
Calculus' devices are all linked to our software via the 4G network. So those who choose to monitor their machines or buildings with our system will be fine for quite some time, especially since our gateways are also ready for the switch to 5G.
Are you not yet using our portal? Feel free to give us a call. We will be happy to explore ways in which we can support you in the transition to 4G.
