Android 14 introduces first-of-its-kind cellular connectivity security features - Google Security Blog

https://lemdro.id/post/478802

Android 14 introduces first-of-its-kind cellular connectivity security features - Google Security Blog - Lemdro.id

Key points: - Android 14 introduces advanced cellular security measures, becoming the first OS to do so. - 2G support can now be disabled in managed devices to counter security vulnerabilities associated with false base stations and downgrading attacks. - A new feature disables support for null-ciphered cellular connections, enhancing communication privacy. - Android 12 had already introduced a modem-level 2G disabling feature for Pixel 6 and other Android devices. - Android’s efforts to enhance cellular security encompass collaborations with internal teams, academic groups, and industry standards bodies.

This is handy. You have been able to disable 2G by dialing ##4636## > phone information for a while, but thats not well known
Is there a downside to disabling 2G?
I would say there is. Many providers are disabling 3G nowadays and 5G is not available for all yet, so your phone essentially uses 2G and 4G. Now, imagine disabling 2G and calling someone on a moving vehicle…
No major U.S. carrier gas used 2G for years.
Sprint sold off their 2G infrastructure before Y2K.