Eir to begin retiring 3G network in Offaly from next week

Eir is retiring its 3G network, with the switch-off in Offaly due to commence on Wednesday, October 14 October.

The nationwide programme is part of eir’s continued development and enhancement of its 4G and 5G services.

The first phase of the switch off has already begun and will be followed by Offaly and all other counties on a phased basis, due to be completed over the following weeks.

The change will have no impact on the vast majority of customers, who already use 4G and 5G services every day.

A small proportion of eir’s customers currently use 3G-only services and have all been contacted directly by eir with clear guidance on the simple steps required to upgrade to high-speed mobile data services.

Actions taken by these customers included updating device settings, a free SIM card replacement, or moving to a compatible device.

All calls and texts will continue working as normal for all eir customers after October, and for 3G-only customers, taking the recommended steps will ensure continued access to high-speed mobile data services.

This move sees eir become the latest operator to switch off 3G as part of an industry-wide shift towards newer technologies, supporting faster and enhanced data services and improved reliability.

Fergal McCann, Chief Technology Officer, eir, said: “Retiring 3G will help us focus our network investment on newer technologies that are delivering the best experience for customers today. Our priority is to keep the transition simple, clear and fully supported for the very small number of 3G-only customers who need to take action.”

Customers with any queries can visit eir.ie/3Gswitchoff/ or speak with staff in any eir store.