phoenix – Called 3G Sunset on some websites, major cell phone service providers have turned off their 3G networks, leaving many Americans to get new smartphones.
Here’s what you need to know about switching off.
Why did my cell phone service provider turn off my 3G network?
According to FCC officials, mobile carriers “regularly shut down older services such as 3G to free up spectrum and infrastructure to support newer services such as 5G.”
“Mobile carriers have the flexibility to choose the technologies and types of services they deploy, including when older ones are retired in favor of newer ones to meet consumer demand.” Read part of the FCC website Only for pending 3G block.
FCC officials say similar network transitions have occurred before, with some mobile carriers switching off their 2G networks when their networks were upgraded to support 4G services.
When was the network turned off?
AT&T
AT&T officials They say their 3G network has been phased out since February 22nd.
T-mobile
T-mobileof 3G networks have been phased out and are following a phased switch-off schedule.
On its website, officials from the cell service provider said that the 3G CDMA network originating from Sprint will be retired on March 31, 2022, while the 3G UMTS network originating from T-Mobile itself will be retired on July 1, 2022. It says it has been discontinued.
Also, the LTE network from Sprint will be discontinued on June 30, 2022.
A company official also said it plans to retire the 2G network, but no date has been set.
verizon
verizon3G CDMA networks will be retired by December 31, 2022. Decommissioning came after Cell Service Provider. Delayed switch-off date From 2019 to 2020 and from now until 2022. Officials have previously said there would be no further delays in switching off 3G.
Other mobile carriers
According to the FCC, users of other mobile phone service providers may be affected.
“Many carriers such as Cricket, Boost, Straight Talk and some Lifeline mobile service providers use AT&T, Verizon and T-Mobile networks.”
Will my phone be affected by switching off?
AT&T
AT&T Officials Detailed list published Some phones and digital devices that continue to work after 3G is switched off, like devices that require software updates to enable HD voice, Wi-Fi calling, video calling, advanced messaging, or 5G services. department. A company official said the phone model needs to be checked to determine exactly if the phone will work after being switched off.
AT&T users can also sign in to their accounts to see if their phone has been affected.
T-mobile
T-Mobile officials say they have reached out to those affected by the switch-off plan.
verizon
3G or 4G devices that don’t support HD Voice will be affected by the switch-off, according to Verizon officials.
Verizon’s website says, “This device will not be able to make or receive calls, send or receive text messages, or use data services.”
According to Verizon officials, any Apple iPhone 5, 5C, 5S, or earlier models will be affected by the switch-off. On the Android side, Samsung Galaxy S4 and earlier models are also affected.
Are other devices affected as well?
yes.
“Other devices such as certain medical devices, tablets, smart watches, vehicle SOS services, home security systems, and other connected products may use 3G network services. Also don’t forget about the device you use as a backup when your wired internet connection goes down,” read part of the FCC’s website.
For that part OnStar Official The 3G switch-off says it affects certain GM vehicles from model year 2015 onwards. People can check if their car is affected on their website. The company has issued an over-the-air update to affected vehicles.
AARP staff Anyone using a Personal Emergency Response System (PERS), known by various names such as Life-Alert, Fall Monitor or Medical-Alert, should immediately contact the device manufacturer or the company that provides the device monitoring service. I need to contact you.
“If your device is pre-2019 and is operating on a 2G or 3G network, it’s wise to upgrade your device as soon as possible,” read part of AARP’s article on 3G cutoffs. Please give me.
How many people will be affected by switching off?
According to AARP, citing telecom analysts, up to 10 million people in the United States still use 3G phones.
Verizon Official Less than 1% of customers say they are still using 3G devices.
what do i need to do now?
Needless to say, if you have a phone or digital device that will be supported after being switched off, you don’t need to do anything.
If you have a phone or digital device that is affected by the switch off, you should check with your mobile operator on what needs to be done. In some cases, you may need to get a new phone.
Part of the FCC’s website reads, “Your cell service provider may offer special deals for new devices, including some deals that include free cell phones.
FCC officials also say there are programs that can help eligible customers with the cost of phone and Internet service, but these programs don’t cover the cost of new devices.
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