If your mobile phone is more than a few years old, you may need to upgrade before your mobile provider shuts down its 3G network, to avoid losing service.
During 2022, mobile carriers are shutting down their 3G networks, which rely on older technology, to make room for more advanced network services, including 5G. As a result, many older cell phones will be unable to make or receive calls and texts, including calls to 911, or use data services. This will affect 3G mobile phones and certain older 4G mobile phones.
Contact your mobile provider or consult your provider’s website for more information about their 3G retirement plan and whether your phone, or other connected device, may be affected. It is important to plan now so you don’t lose connectivity, including the ability to call 911.
Other devices, such as certain medical devices, tablets, smart watches, vehicle SOS services, home security systems, etc. may be using 3G network services.
Why are 3G networks being phased out? As mobile carriers seek to upgrade their networks to use the latest technologies, they periodically shut down older services to free up spectrum and infrastructure to support new services, such as 5G. Similar transitions have happened before.
Contact your mobile provider for more information.
Source: Federal Communications Commission
