Connected services after the 2G and 3G phase-out

In many countries, 2G and 3G networks are being phased out. This is also referred to as "the 2G and 3G sunset". The reason for this is that mobile network operators shift towards more advanced technologies.

Cars with model year 2020 or earlier may be impacted by the sunset. Depending on model and model year, your car will either lose all connected services or need a software upgrade to keep working as before.

Background

The mobile network operators will phase out the 2G and 3G networks by removing the equipment supporting the networks. As a result, 2G and 3G networks will no longer be available.

The decision is driven by several factors, such as:
  • Bandwidth efficiency – sending the most data possible in the shortest time frame
  • Cost efficiency – decreasing costs for maintaining and upgrading networks
  • Few customers using the 2G and 3G networks.

The phase-out will mainly take place during the 2020s, but the network operators in each country set their own timeplans.

How will this affect you?

Unfortunately, switching off the 2G and 3G networks will affect some vehicles, mainly cars of model year 2020 or earlier. A car from this period will either lose all connected services or need a software upgrade to keep working as before.

The decision to phase out 2G and 3G network technology lies beyond Volvo's control.

Affected cars

The end of 2G and 3G networks will impact the internet connection in cars equipped with certain types of modems.
  • Cars with Google built-in are not affected. The same applies to all cars with model year 2021 or later.
  • Cars of model year 2017-2020 will either lose all connected services, or need a software upgrade to keep working as before. More information will follow in due course.
  • Cars of model year 2016 or earlier will lose all connected services.

Affected services

The following services will be unavailable to cars without an internet connection:
  • The SOS and ON CALL buttons, and automatic crash notifications.
  • Remote services via Volvo Assistance – For example, theft notification and remote car immobilisation.
  • Volvo Cars app remote services – For example, climate, charging, lock and unlock functions, driving journal and car statistics.
  • Extension of Volvo Cars app subscriptions – It will no longer be possible to extend Volvo Cars app subscriptions.
  • In-car infotainment apps – For example, Spotify, Record & Send, Weather.

 Important

Automatic crash notifications will no longer work after the 2G and 3G phase-out. This means that the car will not send an automatic alarm to Volvo Assistance or the emergency call centre if a collision is detected.