MTS to Shut Down 50% of 3G Networks in Russia by 2025

Half of MTS’s 3G Networks to Go Offline in Russia by 2025

In a strategic move to enhance internet speed and quality, MTS plans to deactivate at least 50% of its remaining 3G (UMTS) base stations across Russia by 2025. The resources freed from this transition will be reallocated to LTE (4G) networks, significantly boosting data transfer speeds and enhancing services like high-quality voice calls via VoLTE.

Phased Transition Across Cities and Regions

This summer, MTS will phase out 3G networks in nine cities and seven regions, including Adygea, Bashkortostan, and Tatarstan, along with Altai and Krasnodar territories, and Vladimir and Novosibirsk regions. This strategic shift aims to increase data speeds by about 25% and expand access to VoLTE for subscribers.

Earlier this year, 3G services were discontinued in Revda (Sverdlovsk region), Sayanogorsk (Khakassia), and Usolye-Sibirskoye (Irkutsk region). More recently, MTS turned off third-generation networks in Berdsk, Barabinsk, and Kuybyshev (Novosibirsk region), Nizhnekamsk (Tatarstan), and Neftekamsk (Bashkortostan).

Upcoming Deactivations and Future Plans

In mid-June, similar actions will occur in Novoaltaysk (Altai territory), Suzdal (Vladimir region), and Labinsk (Krasnodar territory). By late July, 3G deactivations are scheduled for Maikop (Adygea) and Primorsko-Akhtarsk (Krasnodar territory).

The strategic shift from 3G to 4G is part of MTS’s broader vision to improve telecommunications infrastructure, offering subscribers faster and more reliable services. As the transition progresses, users can expect improved connectivity and an enhanced mobile experience across Russia.