Source: Radio New Zealand
All three main mobile operators are shutting down their 3G networks and upgrading their sites to either 4G or 5G. Jae Park/ Unsplash
A digital equity advocate is worried that many people will not understand what is required to keep connected after the 3G network is shut down.
All three main mobile operators – Spark, 2degrees and One NZ – are shutting down their 3G networks and upgrading their sites to either 4G or 5G. By 31 March, the 3G network will be closed, with 4G and 5G entirely taking its place.
This means some devices, not just phones, but also things like medical, security alarms and vehicle trackers will cease working with the network. Phone calls, including to 111, will not work.
Digital Equity Coalition Aotearoa’s Marie Silberstein has heard from many people surprised to find themselves in a position where their phone no longer functions.
She told Nine to Noon that some imported phones or phones bought overseas may not work on the network. She said even if the phones say they are 4G capable, it does not necessarily mean they are 4G capable in New Zealand.
“It’s really imported, refurbished [phones]. You won’t know unless you text 3G to 550, especially if you bought it overseas,” Silberstein said.
“4G here is not on the same band as 4G overseas.”
To find out if your phone will work, you can text ‘3G’ to 550 for free, which will let you know if your device can use 4G. If it says you cannot, you will need to investigate further.
Some phones may need to change their settings, while others may need to be replaced.
For phones bought overseas that were having trouble connecting to 4G, telcos advise customers to try downloading the latest software. If this doesn’t work, customers may need to replace the phone.
Silberstein said if you are in the group of people who need to upgrade their phone, don’t feel pressured to buy the most expensive new phone.
She said she has heard from people in the community that on their teleco’s 3G information page on their website, there were ads for expensive phones.
“Please feel empowered to not go with the most expensive phone,” Silberstein said.
“Before you go in and talk to your provider, you can go to a library, you can go to a community hub, you can check in with whānau, you can talk to trusted friends that you know are whizzes on their phones, and say, ‘look, what phone do I need?’”
If you need to upgrade your phone, you can recycle your old phone for free with RE:MOBILE.
A free text number has been set up for people to check their phone’s status as 3G networks shut down. Supplied
– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand
