Up to 6,000 phones unable to reach 112 after 2G and 3G shutdown

After Iceland fully shut down its 2G and 3G mobile networks, around 6,000 phones are still unable to connect to the emergency number 112, even though they can still make regular calls. Work is underway to resolve the issue, and users are being urged to check their devices. Iceland has become the first country in Europe to completely switch off 2G and 3G mobile networks. While most users have not noticed any disruption, a small number of devices are unable to reach the emergency line 112. The issue mainly affects older mobile phones and some devices purchased abroad. Some models are programmed to switch to a 3G-based emergency mode when dialling 112. As the 3G network is no longer available, the call fails. Emergency concern after incidents nationwide The problem came to light after several cases in which residents were unable to reach emergency services in life-threatening situations. One case involved a resident of Skagaströnd who attempted five times to call for help for a seriously ill brother. The phone worked for regular calls but failed to connect to 112. The matter is still under review by the Icelandic Telecommunications Office (Fjarskiptastofa). Similar experiences have been reported by other users. Some say their phones support 5G and VoLTE technology and cannot understand why only emergency calls fail. Work underway on solutions The Telecommunications Office is considering introducing a temporary seven-digit number for the Emergency Response Centre (Neyðarlínan) for users with incompatible devices. However, the solution has limitations. Unlike 112, such a number would not automatically transmit caller location data or other information used in emergency response operations. Authorities are also assessing whether such a number could be introduced under current legal frameworks. Tourists may also be affected As Iceland is the first country in Europe to fully retire 2G and 3G networks, tourists may also encounter difficulties if they are using older devices or phones purchased outside Iceland. The Telecommunications Office has prepared English-language information, distributed to tourism organisations, Safe Travel , and the Icelandic Tourist Board (Ferðamálastofa). However, not all tourism operators have implemented their own information measures. Emergency Centre urges phone checks Jón Svanberg Hjartarson, director of the Emergency Response Centre, says the inability to reach 112 could have serious consequences. He urges families to check phones used by older relatives, who often use older devices and may be unaware of the issue. If a phone fails the test, users should contact their operator. In many cases, a software update may be sufficient, but some devices will need to be replaced.
2026-06-26 17:31:42