Networks by country
Can I still use an old phone in France?
It depends on the model. 2G ends during 2026, but 3G runs until 2028–2029, so Nokias with 3G (like the E71 or N95) keep working; 2G-only Nokias (like the 6300) don’t.
2G in France Ending
Orange is switching 2G off progressively during 2026; SFR and Bouygues Telecom by the end of 2026.
3G in France On
Still running: Orange plans to close 3G from the end of 2028, SFR by 2028 and Bouygues Telecom by 2029.
What this means for a classic phone
France is the exception: 3G outlives 2G. A 2G-only phone, such as the RAZR V3, Nokia 6300 or 5310, loses its network during 2026. A phone with 3G, such as the Nokia E71, N95, RAZR2 V9 or BlackBerry Curve 9300, keeps working until 2028–2029.
Before you buy a SIM
- Ask the operator (or the network behind your brand) whether it still runs 2G, and until when.
- A cheap pay-as-you-go or data SIM is usually enough: KeyAgain needs a little mobile data, not a big plan.
- You may have to type the operator’s data settings (APN) into the phone by hand.
- If the phone has Wi-Fi, it can get online at home whatever happens to the mobile networks.
Mobile data on an old phone: setting up the APN →
Source: The Old Phone Revival — 2G & 3G switch-off guide, last checked 13 October 2026, with links to every operator and regulator source. Dates change: confirm with your operator.
Questions
Will my old Nokia still work in France?
It depends on the model. 2G ends during 2026, but 3G runs until 2028–2029, so Nokias with 3G (like the E71 or N95) keep working; 2G-only Nokias (like the 6300) don’t.
Does KeyAgain work in France?
KeyAgain works wherever the phone can get online: over a mobile network that still runs where you are, or over Wi-Fi on models that have it. It isn’t tied to an operator or a country.
