If your mobile phone is more than a few years old, you may need to upgrade your device before your mobile provider shuts down its 3G network, to avoid losing service.

Over the next year, the nation’s cellular carriers will be shutting down 3G cellular networks in favor of 4G LTE and 5G networks. According to the FCC’s website, AT&T will discontinue service in February, T-Mobile/Sprint will discontinue service between March and July, and Verizon will discontinue service at the end of 2022.

Customers of the cellular carriers with older, 3G-only phones should expect to be notified by their cellular carrier. However, users of older phones used for 911-only purposes may not be notified if they do not have active service with the provider. It has long been the practice of some organizations, that provide support for those experiencing homelessness or domestic violence, to provide clients with older phones with no service plan; those phones could still be used to call 911 in an emergency. Users of those older 911-only phones should be aware that they may not work after 3G service is discontinued, unless the phone supports 4G or 5G.

More Information from the FCC

The Federal Communications Commission's website has more information, include the dates on which particular carriers plan to phase out 3G service, and lists of consumer devices that will be affected. Visit:

https://www.fcc.gov/consumers/guides/plan-ahead-phase-out-3g-cellular-networks-and-service

Low Income Cellular Service Assistance

Low income individuals who are concerned that their 911-only phones may no longer be supported should consider applying for service through the federal Lifeline Program. Information regarding eligibility and participating providers can be found at: 

https://www.lifelinesupport.org/