Networks by country
Can I still use an old phone in Germany?
Yes, until 2028: Telekom, Vodafone and O2 all still run 2G, which is what classic phones use. 3G is already gone.
2G in Germany On
All three networks still run 2G. Telekom plans to switch off on 30 June 2028, Vodafone at the end of September 2028 and O2 Telefónica at the end of 2028.
3G in Germany Off
Telekom and Vodafone switched 3G off on 30 June 2021, and O2 by the end of 2021.
What this means for a classic phone
Classic phones get online over 2G on any of the three networks until 2028. Phones with 3G simply fall back to 2G. After 2028, only models with Wi-Fi will get online.
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 Germany?
Yes, until 2028: Telekom, Vodafone and O2 all still run 2G, which is what classic phones use. 3G is already gone.
Does KeyAgain work in Germany?
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.