3G Cellular Networks to be Phased Out Starting in January 2022
WHAT'S GOING ON: Mobile phone carriers are shutting down their 3G cellular networks because they rely on outdated technology. They are doing this to make room for more advanced (5G) cellular networks.
WHO IS AFFECTED: Anyone with an older cell phone that still relies on 3G, as well as anyone with certain older 4G mobile phones that do not support "Voice over LTE" (VoLTE or HD Voice). This may also impact residents with other connected devices such as medical devices and home security systems that rely on this older technology.
WHEN WILL THIS HAPPEN: Starting in January 2022, phone carriers will begin phasing out their 3G networks. Please note, the dates below are end dates. Carriers may start their 3G shutdown process before these dates.
- AT&T: The 3G Network shutdown to be completed by February 2022. AT&T Customers can click here to read their official announcement.
- T-Mobile: The 3G UMTS Network shutdown to be completed by July 1, 2022. T-Mobile customers can click here to read their official announcement for more information and instructions.
- Sprint (owned by T-Mobile): The 3G CDMA Network shutdown to be completed by March 31, 2022, and the 4G LTE Network shutdown to be completed by June 30, 2022. Sprint customers can click here to read their official announcement for more information and instructions.
- Verizon: The 3G Network shutdown to be completed by December 31, 2022. Verizon customers can click here to read their official announcement for more information and instructions.
- If you don't see your carrier above, you still may be affected. Many carriers such as Cricket, Boost, Straight Talk, and several Lifeline mobile service providers utilize networks owned by AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon.
WHAT SHOULD I DO: If you are NOT sure if you own a device (cell phone, medical alert device, home security system, etc) that uses this older technology, the best thing to do is to contact your cellular provider ASAP. It may be as simple as upgrading your device's software. Otherwise, you may need to upgrade your device to a newer model. But all questions should be forwarded to your cellular carrier as they will know best. Click the links above for carrier-specific instructions, or give their customer support a call. It is important to plan ahead now, so that you do not lose connectivity, including the ability to call 9-1-1.
Please also check with any friends or relatives (especially seniors) who may need help with this process.
For more information, you can click here to read an informational Consumer Guide that the Federal Communications Commission put together.