Network operators are scheduled to begin the shutdown of 3G networks worldwide, a process that will affect millions of people and businesses globally. While most users might not realize it yet, this is something that could have an impact on daily lives in more ways than one.
This shutdown will likely impact users both directly and indirectly in terms of changes in device connectivity, data speeds, phone plans, associated fees, customer support experience and more.
Why is this happening?
The end of 3G is inevitable due to the advancement of mobile and wireless technology. With 5G, users can experience faster speeds and improved connectivity when compared to older generations of mobile networks. 5G also provides an infrastructure that allows for more efficient use of artificial intelligence (AI) and the internet of things (IoT). This makes it possible to utilize a greater number of connected devices in various applications such as smart homes, autonomous vehicles and healthcare services.
Due to these advancements in technology, many carriers have moved away from providing support for 3G networks because they cannot provide the same level of performance as newer technologies. Moreover, many carriers are now actively transitioning their 3G satellites into new frequencies so that they can be used for 5G. This is a necessary process to ensure that the newer technology can run efficiently and effectively without any issues.
When did the shutdown begin?
In the United States, 3G is effectively dead. The 3G network shutdown began in February 2022 when AT&T officially stopped offering its 3G services. Verizon followed suit shutting down its 3G network in December of last year. T-Mobile opted to terminate Sprint's code division multiple access (CDMA) 3G network in March 2022, and its 4G LTE network in June 2022. Additionally, T-Mobile has also announced that it had shut down both T-Mobile's universal mobile telecommunications system (UMTS) and global system for mobiles (GSM) networks as of July 2022. However, no specific date has been declared to announce the shutting down of 2G networks.
However, abroad, the situation is more patchwork. Various 3G networks are still active in China, Canada, Mexico, the Netherlands, Ireland, Finland, Estonia, Spain, Switzerland and several other countries. All these countries’ 3G networks are set to retire within a few years. In Japan, 3G has been dead for several years already.
What devices are affected?
The 3G shutdown affects many devices across the globe, including smartphones, tablets, routers and other connected devices that rely on a cellular connection. Smartphones such as the Apple iPhone 4s and older models, as well as older Android phones, are especially vulnerable to this shutdown.
Tablets such as those from Apple's line of iPads with Wi-Fi and cellular capabilities are also affected by the 3G shutdown. There is no workaround for these devices since their cellular radios cannot be upgraded to support 4G/LTE speeds — they will simply not be able to access a cellular network once the shutdown occurs.
Routers that use a cellular connection — such as those used to connect a home or business to the internet — are also at risk of losing their connection with the 3G shutdown. Many routers now come with 4G/LTE capability built-in, but older models may be using only 3G technology and will no longer be able to access the cellular network after the shutdown.
Other devices such as wearables, connected cars,and other IoT products that use a cellular connection, may also be affected by the 3G shutdown. These devices must either have their radios upgraded to support 4G/LTE speeds or they must rely on an alternate form of connectivity to continue working once the 3G network has been phased out.
It must be noted that 2G networks will continue to exist, sometimes due to government regulations that require a legacy network to exist for emergency reasons. 3G devices with 2G antennas will still work, albeit in a diminished capacity.
How to find out if your device is affected
Knowing whether a device is affected by the 3G shutdown can be confusing. Fortunately, there are a few different steps that can be taken to determine if the device needs to be upgraded.
The first step is to check with the service provider. Most service providers have published lists of devices that will no longer be able to access their 3G networks once the shutdown begins. If a person is using an older phone or tablet, it's likely that it won't work on a 4G network and will instead require an upgrade. The service provider should be able to tell them which devices are supported, and which ones aren't.
Next, check for compatible hardware in the device. Many devices come with a built-in option to switch between 3G and 4G networks. This can usually be found in the settings menu of the device. If the device does not have this option, then it is likely that it won't be compatible with a 4G network once the 3G shutdown begins.
Finally, check for offers from the current service provider. Many service providers are offering upgrades or discounts for customers who need to switch over to a 4G network. It's important to make sure that the device can work on the specific carrier’s 4G network before making any purchases or contracts. Check with the service provider directly to see which devices they support and what kind of rates they offer for new customers.
Conclusion
The 3G network shutdown is a necessary step for the advancement of faster 4G LTE technology. It will help reduce latency, which means that users can expect faster response times and improved connections when using their mobile devices. Furthermore, shutting down 3G networks will free up bandwidth needed for 5G networks, making it possible to get more out of current data plans.
All in all, the 3G network shutdown has been an important part of the transition from older technologies to newer and more advanced ones. It is necessary to stay ahead in terms of technology and be able to use devices with maximum efficiency.
