It may come as a surprise to some readers that a major operator in Bahrain still runs a 2G network. Well, it won’t be doing so for much longer. Operator Batelco is phasing out its 2G network to make way for what it calls transformation towards advanced mobile development.
The 2G network, which has been in service for over 27 years, will be phased out by the end of November 2021 to make way for technologies that offer higher speeds and better quality.
With this in mind, Batelco has been getting in touch with its 2G customers to ensure a smooth transition process. Customers who use 2G have been invited to switch to a 3G, 4G or 5G-compatible device (and Batelco says there are attractive offers on the new devices).
The company says that the capacity currently being used for 2G services will be reallocated to support the growth of newer generation networks in a process that began in 2019. In fact, over the past two years, 3G and 4G coverage enhancements have been carried out in several areas as well as the expansion of Batelco’s 5G network. The vast majority of Batelco’s 2G customers have already migrated to higher technologies.
The company also pointed out that phasing out of the 2G network will lead to a reduction in electricity consumption, benefiting the environment by reducing CO2 emissions.
