3G Network Given Another Extension, Now Active Until October
Telstra and Optus have agreed to further delay the shutdown of their 3G networks until the end of October following a parliamentary inquiry’s recommendation.
The original shutdown dates were set for Aug. 31 for Telstra and September for Optus, with TPG/Vodafone already ending its 3G service in January.
Both companies announced today that the 3G network closures will now commence on Oct. 28.
A Senate inquiry raised concerns that many customers, including those using critical medical equipment and various infrastructure, rely on 3G technology without realizing it.
If Telstra and Optus did not agree to the delay, they could be required to postpone the closure until the Minister for Communications was satisfied with the 4G coverage equivalence and audit process.
Both Telstra and Optus stated that the extra time will be used to raise public awareness about the impending closures.
Optus customers are particularly at risk of not upgrading in time, with an estimated 100,000 customers still needing to update their devices before the shutdown.
Some Devices May Lose Emergency Calling Ability
Many phones, especially those purchased overseas or secondhand, that rely on 3G for emergency calls (Triple-0) may lose this functionality once the 3G network is shut down, even if they are technically on a 4G network due to the lack of Voice over LTE support.
Both companies have taken measures to assist affected customers, including providing free phones, credits, and guidance through the upgrade process. However, they acknowledge that some customers may still fail to make the necessary changes until the actual closure.
Devices such as iPhone 6, Galaxy S7 and S8, Google Pixel, as well as medical monitors, security cameras, and EFTPOS machines, are at risk of losing functionality without 3G support.
