Orange schedules the end of 2G in Var for October 2026

The telecommunications operator Orange has announced the closure of its second-generation (2G) mobile network across the entire department of Var. The deadline is set for October 6, 2026, marking a key step in its infrastructure modernization strategy.

This decision is part of a national initiative aimed at meeting new challenges in security, performance, and control of the environmental footprint of communication technologies.

The shutdown of 2G in Var is not an isolated initiative. It is part of a national program launched by Orange in 2022. The first phase of this decommissioning began on March 31 in a large part of Southwestern France and will continue progressively until October 20, 2026, throughout the rest of the country.

The objective of this operation is to free up radio frequencies, currently occupied by an aging technology, to reallocate them to 4G and 5G networks.

This transfer of resources will significantly improve the coverage and quality of service of these newer networks, which have become essential to support the growth of digital uses for both individuals and businesses, particularly in the field of connected objects.

Support for individuals and businesses

Aware of the impacts of this technological migration, Orange has set up a support system for all its customers. Information campaigns and diagnostic tools are being deployed to help users identify equipment that will no longer be compatible.

Owners of phones operating exclusively on 2G are invited to switch to 4G or 5G compatible devices. In-store advisors and customer service teams are mobilized to offer devices adapted to all needs, including button or flip models specifically designed for seniors.

To encourage this transition, a €50 Trade-in Bonus is offered for the purchase of a compatible 4G/5G phone, in exchange for the old 2G mobile returned to the store.

Finally, businesses, many of whose alarm, remote-reading, or vehicle fleet systems still rely on 2G, benefit from personalized support to migrate their SIM cards and connected objects to more efficient and secure 4G and 5G solutions.