Norway's 2G Network Shutdown: What It Means for Your GPS Tracker
As the telecommunications landscape continues to evolve, Norway is taking a significant step forward by phasing out its 2G network. Starting in August 2025, Telia will begin shutting down 2G services across the country, with a complete phase-out scheduled by the end of 2025.
Understanding the 2G Shutdown Timeline (Norway)
The shutdown will follow a regional approach throughout fall 2025:
- August 2025: Buskerud and parts of Innlandet
- Throughout fall 2025: Other regions progressively
- End of 2025: Oslo and surrounding areas
This timeline reflects careful planning by mobile network operators to ensure a smooth transition for users and businesses.
____________
Why Is This Happening?
Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) like Telia are making this transition for several compelling reasons:
- Spectrum Efficiency: Reallocating valuable spectrum frequencies from 2G to more efficient 4G and 5G technologies
- Enhanced Performance: Modern networks offer better coverage, capacity, and security
- Energy Efficiency: 4G and 5G networks are up to 5 times more energy efficient than 2G
- Natural Evolution: This follows the same pattern as when 2G replaced 1G, and 3G replaced 2G
This is not a sudden decision – it's part of the natural progression of telecommunications technology that benefits everyone through faster, more reliable connectivity.
However, despite the long-term planing, MNOs may still provide limited advance notice before local shutdowns occur, meaning the transition can feel abrupt for both users and businesses.
Impact on Copenhagen Trackers Customers
For Cobblestone GPS Trackers
f you own a Cobblestone GPS tracker, it's important to know that these devices operate on 2G networks. While we have no influence over mobile operators' network decisions, we want to be completely transparent about what this means for you:
- From August 2025: You may experience limited coverage and functionality in some areas of Norway
- By end of 2025: Cobblestone trackers will no longer function in Norway
Our Commitment to Transparency
At Copenhagen Trackers, we believe in being proactive and honest with our customers. While we cannot control telecommunications infrastructure decisions, we can ensure you have the information needed to make informed choices about your tracking needs.
____________
Future-Proofing with Gemstone Trackers
The good news is that our Gemstone GPS trackers are built for the future. These devices use:
- 4G/LTE connectivity with fallback capability in 2G areas
- LTE-M and NB-IoT for enhanced IoT communication
- Global coverage in over 150 countries
The Gemstone tracker represents our commitment to staying ahead of technological changes, ensuring reliable service as networks continue to evolve.
The Bigger Picture: Technology Evolution Never Stops
This 2G shutdown is part of an ongoing cycle of technological advancement. Just as we've seen with previous network generations:
- 1G gave way to 2G
- 2G evolved into 3G
- 3G was replaced by 4G
- 4G is now being supplemented by 5G
This progression will continue – and that's actually excellent news. Each generation brings faster speeds, better reliability, enhanced security, and new possibilities we couldn't imagine before.
The 2G Shutdown in Norway Represents Progress, Not a Problem.
It's a clear signal that the telecommunications industry continues to innovate and improve. While change can feel uncertain, it's important to remember that:
- 4G/LTE networks are highly reliable and will remain so for years to come
- Network evolution is predictable – we'll have plenty of advance notice for future changes
-
Technology improvements benefit everyone through better performance and new capabilities
____________
Copenhagen Trackers remains committed to navigating these changes alongside our customers, ensuring your tracking needs are met with the most reliable, future-ready technology available.
For questions about upgrading your GPS tracker or to learn more about our Gemstone product line, contact our customer service team. We're here to help you stay connected, no matter how the technology landscape evolves.