The global shutdown of 2G and 3G networks is no longer a future plan. It is happening now. Major markets including France, the UK, and Japan have set clear sunset timelines. Operators are moving quickly to free up spectrum and reduce operational costs. But beneath this transition lies a critical problem that many overlook: a pure data network cannot carry traditional voice calls.
The Voice Vacuum of Data-Only Networks
LTE and 5G cores are built on packet-switched architectures. They inherently lack circuit-switched voice capabilities. In the past, operators relied on CSFB (circuit-switched fallback) to hand voice calls down to 2G/3G networks. As 2G/3G disappear, that voice path will be permanently cut. The result is simple: users in perfect 4G or 5G coverage will be unable to make a regular phone call. VoLTE and VoNR are the only solutions, and both require an IMS (IP Multimedia Subsystem) core.
IMS: From Nice-to-Have to Mission-Critical
IMS is a 3GPP-defined control platform for voice and multimedia services. Without IMS, a 4G/5G core is just a high-speed data pipe. It cannot perform call control, signalling interworking, or HD voice. As 2G/3G networks shut down, IMS has shifted from an upgrade option for large carriers to a non-negotiable infrastructure requirement for all operators, especially small and medium operators and MVNOs.
IPLOOK IMS: Legacy Device Support and Smooth Migration to VoLTE/VoNR
IPLOOK offers a full IMS core including P-CSCF, I-CSCF, S-CSCF, application servers, media gateways, and HSS/HLR. During the transition, it interworks with existing 2G/3G networks via media gateways, ensuring that legacy terminals can still make calls and send SMS. At the same time, it natively supports VoLTE and VoNR, enabling a smooth migration of voice services to 4G/5G. This dual-track strategy preserves the existing subscriber base while building a future-ready network.
Tailored for Small and Medium Operators: Lightweight, Cloud-Native, Low-Cost
Traditional IMS solutions can cost millions of dollars with complex hardware and long deployment cycles. IPLOOK targets small and medium operators as well as MVNOs with a lightweight, cloud-native IMS. Based on virtualization and container technology, it runs on public cloud, private cloud, or standard COTS servers with fully decoupled hardware and software, and elastic scaling on demand. Upfront investment is dramatically lower, and time-to-market can be reduced to months or even weeks. For regions with unstable power or limited technical staff, IPLOOK provides core-in-a-box appliances, offline deployment packages, and remote commissioning. A Latin American MVNO went live in just two months; an African national operator successfully deployed stable voice services for millions of users under harsh conditions. IMS also protects post-sunset VoLTE roaming revenue, preventing operators from losing international roaming income.
Looking Ahead: From VoLTE to VoNR
The 2G/3G sunset is an inflection point for full IP transformation. VoNR will gradually enter commercial use, requiring IMS to support higher-quality audio and video as well as integration with AI-driven scheduling, network slicing, and other emerging capabilities. IPLOOK continues to strengthen its IMS portfolio alongside its 5GC, MEC, and NTN solutions, helping operators worldwide build future-proof voice services.
