France's 2G network shutdown threatens hundreds of thousands of elevators and emergency devices, forcing upgrades or switches to 4G or other providers.
2G network shutdown imminent
Orange and Free are preparing to shut down their 2G networks in 43 departments across France, including Paris and the Hauts-de-Seine, starting on October 20, 2026. This will affect hundreds of thousands of elevators and emergency call devices that rely on 2G technology for communication. Impact on elevators and emergency systems
Approximately 232,000 elevators and 120,000 emergency call devices still use 2G networks, putting them at risk of losing all connectivity on October 20, 2026. These systems are vital for elderly individuals and those with mobility challenges, as they rely on emergency call devices to reach help in emergencies. Progress of the 2G shutdown
The 2G network shutdown began in March 2026 in Bayonne, Anglet, and Biarritz, and has since expanded to other areas, including Nice and 44 additional departments by October 6, 2026. Free Mobile customers follow the same schedule as Orange customers, as they use Orange’s network through a roaming agreement. Solutions for affected users
Affected users can either upgrade their emergency alarm or call systems with 4G-compatible chips, such as VoLTE and LTE-M, or switch to operators like SFR or Bouygues Telecom, which will keep their 2G networks active until late 2026. These options allow users to maintain connectivity without immediate disruption. Long-term implications of 2G shutdown
The shutdown is part of a broader effort to free up radio frequencies for more advanced networks, such as 5G. While this transition may be inconvenient, it is necessary to ensure modern communication technologies can be deployed effectively. Users are urged to check the compatibility of their devices now to avoid potential disruptions.
