SINGAPORE - Owners of 2G mobile phones here will no longer be able to use their devices from April 1, the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) said in a press release on Monday (March 27).

The 2G network will be shut down in stages by Singapore's three mobile network operators - M1, Singtel and StarHub. The shutdown will be completed by April 18.

IMDA reminded all remaining 2G mobile users to switch to 3G or 4G handsets as soon as possible so as to continue using their mobile plans.

These users will be able to retain their numbers and subscription plan on the 3G/4G networks at no additional cost and with no recontract.

In approving the telcos' request for the cessation of the 2G network, IMDA took into consideration the evolving technological landscape and the migration of consumers to 3G and 4G technologies, which offer more service features and higher data speeds.

The 2G network was first introduced in Singapore in 1994. The cessation of 2G mobile services was first announced in 2015.