The National Media and Communications Authority (NMHH) has extended its mobile phone exchange support programme until 31 March 2023, aligning the subsidy scheme with operators’ plans to disconnect the country’s remaining 3G networks, the regulator announced on its website. Furthermore, from 18 July 2022 the maximum individual subsidy towards the cost of swapping a 2G/3G handset for a 4G/5G model is being doubled to HUF40,000 (USD100).
The NMHH began issuing subsidies to assist consumers in exchanging their 3G devices for 4G/5G phones on 14 February 2022, and from 9 May 2022 it has also been possible to claim the subsidy to replace a 2G-only phone.
Magyar Telekom shut down its 3G network on 30 June 2022, while both Yettel Hungary and Vodafone Hungary have begun phasing out 3G services and are now expected to close their 3G networks by end-March 2023. NMHH Deputy Director General Peter Vari stated: ‘The task of the NMHH is to ensure that the affected consumers are not adversely affected by the technological change.’