Monticello, NY – Sullivan County, including its Office for the Aging, is alerting citizens to the fact that their 3G cellphones and other devices may no longer work in the coming months as technology companies transition to supporting only the 4G and the new 5G signals.
“We’re particularly concerned about our senior citizens, who might only use their 3G cellphones for emergencies. The loss of a 3G signal means they won’t even be able to call 911, according to the FCC,” related Office for the Aging Director Lise-Anne Deoul.
The FCC posted a notice stating that 3G networks are slated to be shut down completely at various points this year, depending on the carrier:
- “AT&T announced that it will finish shutting down its 3G network by February 2022.”
- “Verizon announced that it will finish shutting down its 3G network by December 31, 2022.”
- “T-Mobile announced that it will finish shutting down Sprint’s 3G CDMA network by March 31, 2022 and … T-Mobile’s 3G UMTS network by July 1, 2022.”
- Other carriers, like Cricket and Straight Talk, utilize these networks as well.
Sullivan County and the FCC encourage 3G users (or those who are unsure of the signal type their device uses) to contact their service provider for more detailed information. Some are even offering free upgraded equipment.
- AT&T: https://www.att.com/offers/network/3g-network-sunset/
- Verizon: https://www.verizon.com/support/knowledge-base-218813/
- T-Mobile: https://www.t-mobile.com/support/coverage/t-mobile-network-evolution
“People should be aware too that more than cellphones could be affected,” Deoul noted. “The FCC has cautioned that certain medical devices, tablets, smartwatches, vehicle SOS services and home security systems may be impacted. The best option for unsure users is to get in touch with their service provider.”
Additionally, the FCC offers these resources:
- The Lifeline Program, which assists eligible consumers in obtaining phone and Internet services at a discount: https://www.fcc.gov/general/lifeline-program-low-income-consumers
- The Affordable Connectivity Program, which provides a discount of up to $50 a month for broadband Internet service to eligible households: https://www.fcc.gov/affordable-connectivity-program