AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile – the nation’s three major wireless carriers – announced the discontinuation of 3G services in favor of 4G and 5G services in 2022.
According to the Federal Communications Commission, AT&T will discontinue its 3G service in February, T-Mobile/Sprint will discontinue its 3G service between March and July, and Verizon will discontinue its 3G service at the end of 2022.
The Commission on State Emergency Communications issued a warning to consumers who use older cellular devices for emergency services, as they could cease to operate in early 2022 due to 3G networks and support for the phones’ retirement. This may include other devices that use 3G connectivity, such as some medical alert devices, tablets, smartwatches, home security systems, and other devices.
Most users of these services will be notified directly by the carriers if this discontinuation affects them. However, users of older phones used for 9-1-1 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 for the homeless or domestic violence shelters to provide clients with older phones with no service since those old phones could still be used to call 9-1-1 in an emergency. Users of those older 9-1-1 only phones should be aware that they may not work after 3G service is discontinued.
Low-income individuals who are concerned that their 9-1-1 only phones may no longer be supported can apply for service through the federal Lifeline Program. Information regarding eligibility and participating providers can be found at lifelinesupport.org/.
