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General News

25 October, 2024

Telstra’s 3G shutdown looms

In three days time, residents still relying on 3G networks will be unable to make calls, including to Triple Zero, unless they upgrade their devices to 4G or 5G services.

By Prealene Khera

Maryborough Telecommunications owner Cameron Teague with a range of affordable 4G devices people can upgrade to.
Maryborough Telecommunications owner Cameron Teague with a range of affordable 4G devices people can upgrade to.

On October 28, Telstra and Optus will permanently shutdown their 3G networks to fully transition to “superior 4G and 5G networks that provide faster speeds and more reliable connectivity”.

This means that devices that depend on the 3G network will no longer work.

The closure will also affect some 4G devices that default emergency calls to 3G.

While these devices can make normal 4G voice calls, they push emergency calls to 3G and those residents won’t be able to make an emergency call after the closure.

In addition, devices that have been purchased overseas or from a retailer selling imported phones, might not be fully supported once the network shuts down.

Impacted devices may also include smartwatches, tablets, in-home personal emergency alarms, EFTPOS terminals and fire and security alarms.

“People should urgently check if their devices are compatible,” Maryborough Telecommunications owner Cameron Teague said.

“If there’s any doubts, just come down and see us in store so we can check it for you.

“We’ve got cheaper model handsets that people can upgrade to if required.”

Residents can check their device by:

  • Texting ‘3’ to 3498 on any Australian network to check if their device is supported after 3G closes.

  • Visiting Australian Mobile Telecommunications Association’s Check my Device website at www.3Gclosure.com.au, which identifies the make and model of the mobile device to determine if it will be supported once 3G closes. The site is available to all Australians, on any mobile network and is available in 11 different languages including Arabic, Greek, Hindi, and Mandarin.

  • Getting in touch with their service provider to find an upgrade solution that suits personal circumstances.

Mr Teague said, with only a couple of days left, it was imperative people heeded the final call-out.

“So far we’ve already had hundreds of people come in looking to upgrade their 3G device but we’re not confident that everybody has come in yet,” he said.

“We’re still urging those individuals to come in now and avoid the scramble after October 28 — try and get ahead of it.

“I think people should also check in with family and friends, especially if they’re [older], to ensure their phones continue operating properly.”

If you need to upgrade your device or need more information visit the Maryborough Telecommunication store on 142 High Street or contact them on 5461-3722.

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