Force 2G on Mobile Phone

TL;DR

Yes, it’s often possible to force a mobile phone to connect using only the older 2G network. This is useful for testing, compatibility issues, or in areas where newer networks are weak. The method varies significantly depending on your phone’s make and model (Android vs iPhone) and your mobile carrier.

How to Force 2G Connection

1. Understand the Risks: Forcing 2G disables access to faster data networks (3G, 4G, 5G). Voice calls may also be affected. Modern cybersecurity features are often less robust on older networks.
2. Check Your Phone’s Settings (Android): The exact location of these settings varies by manufacturer.
   • Option 1: Network Operators:
     1. Go to Settings > Connections > Mobile Networks > Network Operators.
     2. Turn off ‘Select automatically’. Your phone will scan for available networks.
     3. Manually select a network operator that only supports 2G (this can be tricky, and you may need to research operators in your area). If it prompts for an NMS code, leave this blank.
   • Option 2: Preferred Network Type:
     1. Go to Settings > Connections > Mobile Networks > Network Mode (or similar).
     2. Select ‘2G only’ or a setting that prioritizes 2G. Options might include GSM/UMTS, or similar.
   • Option 3: Developer Options (Advanced): This is hidden by default.
     1. Enable Developer Options: Go to Settings > About Phone > Software Information and tap ‘Build number’ seven times.
     2. Go to Settings > Developer Options.
     3. Look for options like ‘Preferred network type’ or similar, and select 2G only. Be careful when changing settings in developer mode!
3. Check Your Phone’s Settings (iPhone): iPhones have limited direct control over network selection.
   • Reset Network Settings: This is the most reliable method, but it will erase saved Wi-Fi passwords and other network configurations.
     1. Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset > Reset Network Settings.
     2. After resetting, your phone may attempt to connect using the best available network. If this doesn’t force 2G, it’s unlikely you can do so without carrier assistance.
4. Use a Network Selection App (Android – Limited Success): Some apps claim to force network selection, but their effectiveness is variable and depends on your phone’s capabilities.
   • Search the Google Play Store for ‘network selection’ or similar. Read reviews carefully before installing.
5. Contact Your Mobile Carrier: Some carriers allow you to request a temporary switch to 2G only, particularly for testing purposes. This is often done via an account setting on their website or by calling customer support.
6. Testing the Connection: After attempting to force 2G, check your signal indicator. It should show ‘2G’ or a similar indication (e.g., ‘GSM’). You can also try making a voice call and testing data speeds – they will be significantly slower than on newer networks.

   adb shell getprop gsm.network.type

   This command, used with the Android Debug Bridge (ADB), can show you the current network type your phone is using.

7. Reverting to Automatic Network Selection: Once finished testing, remember to switch back to automatic network selection in your phone’s settings to regain access to faster data networks and improved cybersecurity features.