What Does the AT&T 3G Network Phase-Out Mean for You

AT&T, which is one of the largest internet and cellular service providers in the U.S., announced in late 2021 that it was going to phase out its 3G network in the first half of 2022. This is a measure undertaken by this telecom giant to deliver a faster cellular network with higher reliability to its users, courtesy of its ever-expanding 4G and 5G network.

In this blog, we will explore what the phase-out of the AT&T 3G network means for you, your phones, and ultimately, how you can ensure you stay connected to your loved ones!

Why Is the AT&T 3G Network Going Obsolete?  

AT&T launched a wireless network using third-gen technologies to provide wireless connectivity to its subscribers, back in the early 2000s. This innovative AT&T 3G network became extremely popular among consumers, with millions jumping on the bandwagon and later paving the way for superior technologies that would revolutionize the world as we see it today.

However, the advent of the 4G and 5G in this decade has proven to be quite a step forward in wireless technologies. The AT&T wireless experience is now based on these newer, faster, and more reliable networks. 3G networks are now obsolete and can just not keep up with the ever-increasing demand for faster connectivity.

The AT&T 3G network phase-out not only allows AT&T to focus on expanding its 4G and 5G networks and cater to a modern clientele but also frees up the limited airwave spectrum to make room for newer technologies. This way the network can be used for 4G/LTE or 5G to get faster and more reliable service for everyone on the network.

What Phones Will Not Work on the AT&T Wireless Network

As AT&T Wireless network begins to phase out its 3G connections, certain phones will cease to work. Most older phone models only support the 3G technology and as it stops working, so will the device – at least as far as making calls and sending messages is concerned. Some of the most popular phone devices that will not work following the AT&T 3G sunset in February 2023 include:

Do remember that this is not a complete list, rather just some of the most popular devices that are likely to be affected by the 3G shutdown. If you are not sure of whether or not your phone will be affected, it is best to do your own research beforehand. 

What to Do to Avoid Being Affected by the AT&T 3G Shutdown

The termination of AT&T 3G may seem unnerving, especially to those who have been on the network for a long time. Fortunately, however, there are a few things that you can do to avoid being directly affected by this shutdown. The very first thing you can do is check the specifications of your phone. If it only supports 3G, there is a good chance it will stop working. But, if it supports 4G technology and above, you are in the safe zone for now. 

Here are some of your options to ensure you are not affected by the AT&T 3G shutdown wave:

Retire Your Old Phone and Upgrade with AT&T Wireless!

If nothing else works, you can always decide to retire your old 3G phone and upgrade with AT&T wireless. Not only do you have a wide range of phones to choose from but you also get to pick a mobile plan of your choosing. Get any number of unlimited lines you want on one account, and customize your plan as you see fit.

Depending on what old phone you have, you might even be eligible for a trade in and some discount. Explore all your options, have a discussion with your family, and go for a final decision. AT&T is there to fit all your digital and connectivity needs!

Learn more about the best AT&T wireless plans and phones in your area. Call 855-874-1574 now!

Conclusion

Thanks to the development and advancement of 4G/5G LTE technologies, the future looks bright – with new and fun services including AR, VR, and even impeccable IoT experiences. And AT&T Wireless plays an instrumental role in this progression.

The 3G network phase-out by AT&T as others follow suit may seem like a lot but is not necessarily a bad thing. It ensures that connectivity in our future is faster and more reliable than ever. As AT&T expands its 4G LTE and 5G networks, this is an excellent opportunity for users with older phones to upgrade and enjoy the luxuries of better performance and innovative features of these improved networks.

So, let’s not be scared of this AT&T 3G phase out, and take this as an opportunity to move on to better and faster things!

Get quality 4G and 5G services with AT&T Wireless. Call 855-874-1574 to order now!

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What does the AT&T 3G Phase out mean for subscribers?

As AT&T moves in to start shutting off its 3G service networks in the U.S., people with older devices would no longer be able to use the cellular service on their phones. Any device that is not compatible with the recent 4G/5G standards will not be able to make calls, use data, or even receive messages once the AT&T 3G network is discontinued.

To continue using AT&T wireless services, consider getting a new phone or upgrade with AT&T. Call 855-874-1574 for more information!

2. Will AT&T subscribers need to pay extra to upgrade their devices?

In light of the recent 3G phase-out by AT&T, you may or may not have to pay anything to upgrade your device. For most people on the 3G network with outdated phones that would no longer be supporting the cellular service, AT&T is sending out some free replacements as long as they stay on the network.

However, if you are looking for a fancy device or a new phone that you would like to get, consider trading in with AT&T Wireless for a discounted rate. Call 855-874-1574 now and get the best wireless deals available near you!