ONE of the UK's biggest networks is preparing to start closing down a major long-running service next week.

And Brits are warned that if they don't have the right device now they could be left with no data access very soon.

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O2 is the last of the big four networks to make the change, as part of an objective agreed with the Government in 2021.

After more than 20 years, the company is ditching its 3G network.

The change will also affect Tesco Mobile, GiffGaff and Sky Mobile, which rely on O2's network technology.

It means O2 can focus its energy on improving 4G and rolling out even faster 5G to more places across the country.

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The end of 3G won't make much difference to the vast majority of Britons.

But some older handsets aren't 4G or 5G capable, meaning the 3G shutdown will leave owners with no means of going online when out and about.

This will result in no internet and no access to popular apps like WhatsApp and Facebook.

The only way you'll be able to get online is when you're connected to Wi-Fi.

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You'll still be able to make voice calls and texts for now.

2G is sticking around a little longer for carrying emergency calls in remote areas.

The 3G switch off is happening in stages rather than all at once.

So, the City of Durham is the first place O2 is ending 3G on Wednesday (April 2).

The firm says it has reached out directly to the "small proportion of customers" in the area who don’t currently own a 4G or 5G device.

Known vulnerable users have been offered a free upgrade to a 4G-capable handset, while all others affected by the move can claim a new phone at a reduced price.

Is my phone affected?

Most phones released in the last 10 years or so are likely to be 4G and 5G capable.

But if you're unsure whether you're affected by the move or not, there is a simple trick to check.

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Go into your phone's settings and search for Network Mode or Preferred Network.

If you see 4G or 5G listed then you are in the clear.

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Is the 3G switch off that big of a deal?

Analysis by Jamie Harris, Assistant Technology and Science Editor at The Sun

It's the end of an era.

3G brought significantly faster mobile internet speeds enabling millions to do things like watching YouTube videos without needing a Wi-Fi connection.

But nothing lasts forever, and 3G has been overtaken by 4G and 5G too.

There will be concerns that vulnerable people could be left behind by the move.

Fortunately, the mobile networks have led schemes to upgrade people.

So definitely get in contact with O2 (or GiffGaff and Tesco Mobile) if you need support.