Last week, the cellular companies in the State of Israel took a significant step in the transition to advanced networks.
The first gigabit frequencies used by the second and third generation networks (2G/3G) were vacated on February 1, 2026 in favor of use by the advanced fourth and fifth generation networks (4G/5G).
The old networks continue to operate in the meantime in a more limited format and on other frequencies.
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The Ministry of Communications closely monitored the frequency transfer process and no special malfunctions were recorded.
The goal is to gradually and controlledly transfer the main transmission resources to advanced technologies that enable high-speed browsing and excellent call quality, while maintaining a temporary 'safety net' for those who have not yet had time to upgrade their telephone.
According to the new outline set by Communications Minister Shlomo Kari, those still using an old device will be able to continue to receive basic service in the near future. In addition, to maintain the safety of citizens, the option to dial emergency numbers - 100, 101, 102 - from old devices will remain available until the end of 2028.
The transition to advanced cellular generations is tremendous technological and economic news for the economy, but it is important to know: for those who own an old device, the quality of reception may already decline, and cellular companies may even be able to shut down the old networks completely in the future.
Owners of older phones are asked to check whether their phone supports the advanced generations by contacting the service center at *235.
In parallel with the network transition, the Ministry of Communications will air a radio broadcast this week, explaining to the public the process of transitioning to the new networks and calling on owners of old phones to check whether they support the new networks.
To continue to enjoy excellent reception and a smooth user experience, the Ministry of Communications recommends that anyone who has not yet done so switch to 4th and 5th generation-supporting devices with VOLTE capability and emergency dialing.
