What's the story behind T2's name change from Tele2 to T2?

T2 rebranded from Tele2 in 2024, but the company's history dates back to 2003 when Tele2 AB entered the Russian market.

How does T2's coverage compare to other operators in Russia?

T2 has extensive coverage in 70 regions of Russia, but signal strength and quality can vary greatly depending on your location.

Can I get a refund if I'm not satisfied with T2's service?

T2's return policy allows for a refund within 14 days of purchase, but be sure to check the terms and conditions before making a purchase.

How do I troubleshoot common issues with T2's network?

Try restarting your phone, checking your coverage in the area, or contacting customer support for more assistance.

Can I port my number from another operator to T2?

Yes, you can port your number to T2, but be prepared for some downtime and potential issues.

What's the process for canceling my T2 subscription?

You can cancel your subscription online or by contacting customer support, but be aware of any potential penalties or fees.

Does T2 offer any promotions or discounts for new customers?

T2 occasionally offers promotions and discounts for new customers, but be sure to check their website or social media for the latest deals.

Can I use my T2 SIM in other countries?

T2's international roaming rates can be steep, so be sure to check their website for more information and to avoid surprise charges.

T2 Review: Is it Time to Say Goodbye?

Hello everyone!

I'm a creature of habit, and it takes me a while to get used to something new. That's why I don't change my tech, subscription plans, or mobile operators very often. But eventually, the end comes... like my 15-year relationship with T2. I'll share my story in this review.

Let's start with a little background on the operator.

2003 – Swedish telecom group Tele2 AB entered the Russian market, founding a subsidiary called Tele2 Russia. That same year, the first GSM networks were launched in several regions.

2013 – The Swedish group sold its Russian assets to VTB Group.

2014 – Tele2 Russia and Rostelecom merged their mobile assets to create a new federal mobile operator.

September 4, 2024 – The company rebranded and changed its name from Tele2 to T2.

T2's coverage is quite extensive.

As of March 2025, T2 is present in 70 regions of Russia.

But I can tell you from my personal experience. Back in 2009, the operator was really bad at picking up signals in the area – specifically, Tula region. There weren't enough cell towers, and to make a call, I had to climb somewhere. Now, in 2026, I can say that the improvements are temporary – it picks up in some places, but not in others. I don't need to climb anywhere, but the connection is still spotty. It's not a great experience using the operator outside of the city. This was one of the reasons I started considering other operators. Otherwise, I could be left without a signal during my vacation. The internet coverage at my dacha is the same – you need to search for a spot where it works.

I've got to say, my experience with connectivity and internet in Tula has been pretty rough. At work, I've had no signal for two weeks straight. To make a call, I have to stand on a stool on the second floor, and even then, I'm not always heard. Don't even get me started on the internet – the operator's excuse is that it's blocked in the region, but that's not my problem. I'm not even using the internet at work, I've got Wi-Fi, but I still have to deal with call issues because of the poor connection.

This is my experience with Tula and the surrounding area specifically. We drove across the country last summer and the T2 signal was basically non-existent everywhere. I tried setting up my SIM card with MTS and Beeline, and they both had coverage, but my usual operator was a no-go.

I've been on the same plan for a while now – it's called 'bezlimit 500.' I don't remember the exact details of the original terms, as it's been a few years since I last used it. What I do remember is that it cost 500 rubles for unlimited internet and 500 minutes of calls. I'm not even sure what the SMS limit was. Every time I try to switch operators, they promise to freeze my rate, but year after year, they forget their promises.

The final straw was when I got a message today saying my plan is increasing by 150 rubles.

So, that's 900 rubles a month. But for what?! For the lack of connection and internet?! Or for the fact that they actually inform me about the changes beforehand?

As it turns out, it's for this...

I'm still wondering, though – how long will this continue? It feels like the momentum has slowed down. That's just my experience, of course.

Right now, I'm paying 750 rubles a month. You can check the main conditions of the tariff in the app under the Tariff tab.

One thing that's been a challenge for me is the limited messages. In this era of messengers, they're probably not necessary. But when we were at the hospital with our kid and there was no internet, they ran out in just a few days.

Another thing that's been a challenge for me is the unlimited internet. It was this unlimited internet that made me sign up for this tariff in the first place, but over the past couple of years, I've had some major issues with it. And to make matters worse, the tariff description is full of contradictions - 90 GB, but unlimited video streaming.

And whereas I used to be able to come home and not turn on my home Wi-Fi, now I have to have it on all the time.

There was one time, about three years ago, when they had a promotion going on. If you were using the internet yourself, you got unlimited data, but if you were sharing it, there was a limit. So, we went on a trip to the beach, and I brought my kid's tablet along. I loaded it up with some cartoons, but then YouTube came along, and she wanted to watch something herself, so she connected to my internet. I thought, 'No big deal,' but it turned out the data I had left was almost gone, and she couldn't even watch a single video. She was just frustrated. Later on, they changed their policy, and now they offer unlimited data to all users, saying it's not their problem how the customer uses the data.

Phone calls have also been a challenge for me. I only use phone calls for work because we're more into video calls with the family.

I've never come close to using up my monthly allowance for calls, let alone SMS. I've only used it once.

Another thing that's been advertised is the MARKEt2, where you can sell your unused data. For people like me who are frugal, this sounds like a great idea. I mean, who wouldn't take advantage of that?! Especially since all I need to do is click on the 'Create your lot' tab. But, here's the thing, I'm in trouble now.

My tariff isn't even suitable for me. Where's the generosity and good customer service I've been hearing about?

But, there's this virtual assistant Mia who's being heavily advertised on TV. Let's ask her.

But after I asked my question multiple times, I got blocked, saying the service was temporarily unavailable. And it's been unavailable for me since October 16, 2024 - that's just not cool.

I'm not exactly known for my patience, so it's no surprise that I'd finally had enough.

One thing that's been advertised as a 'treat' is the customer service. Oh, and I almost forgot - the customer service is actually pretty great, not just for subscribers, but for everyone! You'd think that's something to shout about, given all the ads on TV and the app.

Okay, let's see what these treats are all about. I've got three of them.

And here are the ones I got.

Wow, great treats! (Just kidding, I'm being sarcastic.)

Ah, yes, I already got my 'gift' - a 900-ruble credit for not having any internet or phone service.

Out of 15 years with T2, I'm only sorry about the last three years. I should've switched operators a long time ago. I know my plan is a bit outdated, but it was perfect for my travels around Russia. I could watch videos, download files, and even make calls to loved ones. But the current conditions and how they're being implemented just aren't cutting it for me.

Yeah, you can switch plans, and the operator keeps reminding me about it every now and then.

But where's the guarantee that I'll have internet and connectivity on the new plan? Paying 300 bucks for nothing? No thanks!

Don't be fooled by the pretty pictures.

Thanks for listening!