Hoppa yfir valmynd

2G and 3G Phase-Out

Travelling in Iceland? Make sure your phone works

3G mobile networks have been switched off in Iceland. This means that mobile phones that still rely on 3G  do not work properly anymore .

Most modern phones will continue to work without any issues. However, older phones or devices may stop working, including for voice calls and emergency calls.

To stay connected and reach emergency services (112):

  • Your phone must support 4G/5G and VoLTE (Voice over LTE)
  • Some older phones or phones purchased abroad may not support VoLTE on Icelandic networks

Test your phone

You can call 1280 (free of charge) to check whether your phone can reach emergency services after the shutdown.

⚠️ Do not call 112 to test your connection.

For your safety, travel with a modern phone and up-to-date software.

If there is a problem with 112 calls use this number: +354 5990112.

Check further instructions on 112.is website.

The shutdown of 3G mobile services in Iceland

The shutdown of 3G mobile services in Iceland is now completed. All areas are now covered by 4G/5G transmitters, and older networks are being replaced by newer technology.

The aim is to provide better services in the long term. However, these changes may affect users who rely on older mobile phones or devices that do not support 4G/5G and VoLTE (Voice over LTE).

What does this mean for general users?

Most users will not notice any changes. However, problems may arise for users who:

  • use older mobile phones that support only 2G or 3G
  • have phones that do not support VoLTE, or where VoLTE is not enabled
  • use devices that rely on 3G for voice calls (e.g. CSFB solutions)
  • use phones purchased abroad that are not configured for Icelandic mobile networks

Such devices may stop working completely once 3G is switched off – including for voice calls.

Critical safety issue: calls to 112

After the shutdown of 3G, it is essential that mobile phones support 4G/5G and VoLTE to ensure reliable access to the emergency number 112.

Test number 1280

To help users verify that their phone will continue to work after the 3G shutdown, a test number – 1280 – has been introduced.
Owners of older phones and phones purchased abroad are strongly encouraged to use this test number.

  • Call 1280 to check whether your phone can connect to 112
  • Do NOT call 112 to test your connection – this may interfere with real emergency calls

If your mobile operator has notified you that your device needs to be updated or replaced, it is important to take action immediately.

For tourism service providers

Foreign travellers may be at increased risk if they use:

  • phones that support only 2G or 3G
  • phones that do not support VoLTE on Icelandic networks

Many countries are also shutting down 2G/3G networks, meaning that older devices may lose connectivity both in Iceland and abroad.

Tourism service providers are therefore encouraged to:

  • inform travellers about the importance of using 4G/5G-capable phones
  • direct travellers to the 1280 test number
  • ensure that safety and emergency equipment supports 4G/5G

What should users do now?

  • Check whether your phone supports 4G/5G and VoLTE
  • Make sure that VoLTE is enabled in your phone settings
  • Test your phone by calling 1280
  • Contact your mobile operator if you are unsure about your device

Where can I find more information?

Coverage maps

Fjarskiptastofa map service:
https://www.fjarskiptastofa.is/fjarskiptastofa/fjarskiptainnvidir/vefsja-fjarskiptastofu/

The map service provides information on the status and development of electronic communications infrastructure in Iceland, including fibre connections and nationwide mobile network coverage.

Mobile operator coverage maps