As mobile operators worldwide plan the shutdown of legacy 2G and 3G networks, the spotlight inevitably shifts to next-generation voice solutions, particularly VoLTE (Voice over LTE). In Europe, 2025 stands out as a key date for many operators to complete their 3G sunset.
See our report on 2G/3G Sunset Status
This shift isn’t merely about switching off older infrastructure; it also heralds an opportunity to significantly improve call quality, connection speed, and user experience—provided the transition is properly managed. Below, we explore what this network evolution means, the challenges it brings, and how proper testing can ensure the best possible user experience.
Why Are 2G and 3G Networks Shutting Down and VoLTE impact?
Spectrum Efficiency: Older networks consume valuable spectrum that operators can repurpose for newer technologies such as 4G LTE and 5G, which offer greater capacity and speed.
Maintenance Costs: Maintaining multiple network generations is costly. Retiring outdated infrastructure frees resources to invest in more advanced networks.
Evolving User Needs: The rise of streaming, high-speed internet, and data-driven applications highlights the limitations of 2G/3G, pushing operators to focus on more robust technologies.
The Rise of VoLTE
VoLTE (Voice over LTE) represents a significant leap forward in voice communication, leveraging the capacity and efficiency of 4G LTE networks. Unlike 3G, which was built mainly for voice and basic data, LTE technology is optimized for higher data throughput.
Key Differences Between 3G and VoLTE Calls
Call Quality
VoLTE: Higher audio clarity with less background noise, thanks to a wider frequency range.
3G: Calls can sound muffled or distorted, especially if signal conditions are poor.
Call Setup Time
VoLTE: Calls connect almost instantly.
3G: Connections often take several seconds to establish, affecting user experience.
Simultaneous Data Usage
VoLTE: Users can browse the internet or use data-rich apps while on a call without significant slowdown.
3G: Data usage during calls can degrade call quality and overall performance.
Network Efficiency
VoLTE: Utilizes the 4G LTE network more efficiently, maintaining better call quality even in congested areas.
3G: More susceptible to congestion and reduced call quality.
The Reality Check: VoLTE Reliability Concerns
While VoLTE offers compelling advantages, several reports highlight a critical concern:
Call Drops: Research suggests VoLTE calls can be four or five times more likely to drop than calls on 2G or 3G networks.
Coverage Gaps: As operators reform spectrum to newer technologies, coverage for VoLTE may be uneven in certain regions or in-building environments.
These issues underscore the importance of comprehensive testing and ongoing network optimization. If network operators and device manufacturers don’t address potential reliability gaps, end users could experience more dropped calls and poor voice quality—resulting in frustration and potential customer churn.
Ensuring a Smooth Transition to VoLTE
1. VoLTE Device Support
Upgrade Older Handsets: Users need VoLTE-capable devices to access these new services. Operators, device manufacturers, and retailers must collaborate to ensure wide availability and clear labeling of VoLTE-compatible phones.
Firmware Updates: Some devices may require a simple software update to enable VoLTE. Seamless over-the-air updates can drastically reduce user friction.
2. Comprehensive Testing
Real-World Scenarios: Lab tests and network probes alone may not capture all real-world complexities. Testing in actual conditions—such as rural areas, congested city centers, and large indoor venues—reveals potential coverage and reliability challenges.
Device Variety: Users don’t all carry the same phone model. Operators need to test VoLTE across popular brands and operating systems to ensure consistent performance.
Network Conditions: Varying levels of congestion, different geographies, and building materials can affect signal quality. Thorough testing helps pinpoint network ‘blind spots.’
3. Continuous Monitoring
KPIs and Analytics: Monitor call setup times, call drop rates, handover performance, and audio quality in real time.
Machine Learning & Automation: Advanced analytics can predict network issues before they significantly impact user experience, enabling proactive problem resolution.
4. Customer Education
Awareness Campaigns: Inform subscribers about changes to 2G/3G networks and the advantages of upgrading to VoLTE devices.
Support Channels: Provide users with clear instructions and troubleshooting guides, ensuring they understand how to enable VoLTE features on their devices.
How SmartViser Can Help
SmartViser specializes in automated testing and monitoring solutions, helping operators, device manufacturers, and service providers ensure the highest levels of quality during this critical network migration. Here’s how:
Automated Test Campaigns
Perform large-scale, repeatable tests on multiple devices and networks simultaneously, reducing time-to-market for VoLTE-capable devices.
Real-World Scenario Testing
Deploy field tests that reflect actual user conditions—from remote rural areas to dense urban environments—capturing genuine user experiences and ensuring robust VoLTE performance.
Multi-Brand, Multi-OS Support
Measure call setup times, call drop rates, and audio quality across a broad range of smartphone brands and OS versions, mirroring the diverse device ecosystem found in the real world.
Data-Driven Insights
Generate detailed performance reports and analytics that highlight areas for improvement, helping stakeholders quickly optimize network performance and device firmware.
Ongoing Monitoring & Maintenance
Continuously track network KPIs to detect and address issues in real-time, ensuring that end users consistently enjoy the benefits of VoLTE.
By using SmartViser’s end-to-end testing platform, operators and OEMs can confidently phase out 2G and 3G networks, knowing they’ve minimized risks around call drops and poor voice quality.
Conclusion
The shutdown of 2G and 3G networks is not just an industry buzzword—it's an essential move toward modernizing mobile communication. VoLTE provides clear advantages in speed, voice clarity, and network efficiency. However, these benefits only become a reality through meticulous planning, rigorous testing, and proactive customer engagement. As we approach the 2025 target for 3G sunsets in Europe and see 2G closures accelerate worldwide, the onus is on network operators, device manufacturers, and solution providers to ensure users’ experiences are seamless and enhanced—not disrupted.
Ready to ensure your VoLTE rollout is flawless? Contact SmartViser to learn more about how our automated testing solutions can help you future-proof your network and deliver on the promise of better voice services.
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Susie Siouti is the Chief Commercial Officer for SmartViser helping organisations in the Telecommunications industry offer superior end-user quality of experience and service with the introduction of innovative test automation products. Susie has 20 years of experience in the Telecoms industry and in that time has led teams across the world mainly in Testing and Compliance. Holding an MBA from Henley Business School brings a diverse set of skills and expertise, including business acumen, strategic thinking, financial management, sales and marketing expertise, leadership, and innovation.
Susie joined SmartViser in 2016, is part of the internal steering committee, responsible for developing and implementing the company's commercial strategy and encouraging a customer-centric culture. The main mission is to help organizations to create value by offering better quality products and services by improving operational efficiency and innovation.
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