Martin’s Tech Tip (January 2022)

Many of us want to hold onto our phones for as long as we can. It makes sense, doesn’t it? Every year we keep our trust phone, we keep it out of the landfill. And we save hundreds of dollars it would cost to replace it.

But next year, you just might have to replace your phone, even if it seem to work perfectly fine. According to the FCC, all major mobile carriers will shut down their 3G (third generation) networks before the end of the coming year. 3G technology was introduced over 20 years ago, and it has been replaced by 4G and 5G networks. If you have a 3G phone, it won’t work after your carrier stops providing 3G service. You won’t even be able to make a 811 call.

How can you tell if you have a 3G phone?

The most immediate way to know if you are affected by the change is to contact your mobile provider. They will know what network your phone uses (3G, 4G, 5G) and if you will have to replace your phone. Many mobile carriers also have “3G retirement plans” that can help you transition to a new phone at a low cost.

Is anything else affected by this network change?

Yes. We live in a connected world, and many devices use cellular networks, not just phones. Tablets, smart watches, vehicle SOS systems (like OnStar), medical devices, e-book readers, and home security devices may all connect to the cell network. If your device is older, you might want to contact customer support for your device to see if it will be affected.