Vietnam's mobile network operators will officially shut down 2G services nationwide from midnight on September 16, marking the end of a mobile technology that has been in use in the country for more than three decades.
From 00:00 on September 16, 2026, telecommunications providers will cease 2G operations across Vietnam, except in the offshore areas of the Truong Sa and Hoang Sa archipelagos and the DK offshore platforms, where services will continue to be maintained.
The shutdown follows nearly two years of transition measures aimed at helping users migrate to newer mobile technologies. With the move, 2G services in Vietnam will come to a complete end.
The technology was first introduced in Vietnam in 1993 when mobile operator MobiFone launched its services. After more than 30 years of operation, the second-generation mobile network is widely regarded as having fulfilled its role in the country's telecommunications development.
Authorities said the phase-out is intended to free up and repurpose radio spectrum resources for newer mobile technologies. The move will allow network operators to expand capacity for 5G and future 6G services while improving network coverage and service quality.
Vietnam also plans to gradually retire its 3G network, with a nationwide shutdown currently scheduled for September 2028.
Following the closure of 2G services, spectrum resources, equipment and infrastructure previously dedicated to the technology will be progressively reallocated to support 4G, 5G and next-generation mobile networks.
The transition is expected to accelerate Vietnam's digital transformation efforts and enhance access to faster and more advanced mobile communications services nationwide.