Hungary’s National Media and Communications Authority (NMHH) has announced that it is extending its device replacement subsidy scheme until 31st March 2023.
The move brings the initiative’s timeframe in line with the proposed dates by which Hungary’s operators are expected to have disconnected their remaining 3G networks. In addition, from 18th July 2022 the regulator is set to double the maximum individual allocation for upgrading a 2G/3G phone to a 4G/5G device to HUF40,000 (US$100).
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.”
The NMHH launched the subsidy scheme in February 2022 to encourage users of 3G devices to upgrade to more modern handsets. The programme was expanded in May so that users of 2G-only phones could also claim the subsidy to upgrade their device.
CommsUpdate reports that Hungary’s market leader Magyar Telekom switched off its 3G network on 30th June 2022, and rivals Vodafone Hungary and Yettel Hungary are targeting a final 3G shutdown date of end-March 2023, having commenced a gradual shuttering of their 3G services.
