Atlanta

Have an older phone? Here’s what you need to know about the 3G shutdown

By WSBTV.com News Staff
By WSBTV.com News Staff

ATLANTA — All of the major phone carriers will shut down their older 3G networks this year.

That means that if you still have a phone that works on a 3G network, you won’t be able to make phone calls or texts when your network shuts the network down. Your apps and websites also won’t work.

A handful of AT&T customers may soon lose cell service when the wireless company drops their 3G coverage on February 22nd.

AT&T says less than 1% of their customers still use 3G-only devices and they’ve been communicating with customers for nearly two years. In a statement, a spokesperson said, “we will continue to do so, as we help them navigate this transition. This includes providing free replacement phones to a substantial majority of customers.”

Here’s what you need to know:

When each major carrier will drop 3G:

  • Sprint’s 3G: March 32
  • AT&T’s 3G: Feb. 22, 2022
  • Sprint’s LTE: June 30, 2022
  • Verizon’s 3G: Dec. 31, 2022
  • T-Mobile’s older 3G: July 1, 2022
  • T-Mobile’s 2G network: TBD
  • Cricket Wireless: Feb. 22, 2022

Which devices will stop working:

  • Any iPhone older than an iPhone 6, including the iPhone 5, 5C and 5S
  • Samsung Galaxy S4s and older, but newer models may need an update
  • Kindle with 3G
  • GizmoPal, GizmoPal2, GizmoGadget
  • Various Hum + models
  • 3G Home Phone Connect
  • Apple iPad 2

AT&T has also released a LIST of which phones WILL keep working.

What to do if your phone is being retired:

Some providers will replace older phones and some phones just need an update to keep working. You may also have to buy a new phone. Some carriers are offering discounts and special promotions on replacement devices. Here’s where to find out what you need to do based on your carrier.

Verizon

AT&T

Sprint

T-Mobile

Cricket Wireless

The FCC also offers affordable connectivity options for low-income households to purchase phone and internet:

Affordable Connectivity Program

3G shutdown means many Georgia drivers lose car safety features this month


©2022 Cox Media Group

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