General News
10 May, 2024
Deadline extended for Telstra 3G shutdown
TELSTRA has announced an extension to the closure date of its 3G mobile network.
The new closure date is August 31, two months later than the original June 30 deadline.
A Telstra spokesperson said the extension was to give customers more time to upgrade their devices.
“Telstra have been communicating the closure of the network for nearly 5 years but understand there are a range of reasons why some people haven’t moved on,” the spokesperson said.
“The closure of the nation’s 3G network is an industry wide change, moving people to better connectivity.
“Everyone using devices that rely on 3G for either data, voice or emergency calls will need to make a change to stay connected when it switches off.
“Mobile customers who are directly using the Telstra network or a provider that uses the Telstra network can check if their handset will be impacted by using our SMS tool. All they need to do is text the number “3” to 3498 (or 3G XT)”
The Telstra spokesperson said the change will affect a variety of devices from farm machinery to medical devices, so ensuring everyone had time to upgrade their devices was important.
“Connectivity is becoming more and more important to the way we all live and work, and we are excited to help all Australians transition to 4G and 5G mobile networks which are faster, more reliable, and more resilient,” the spokesperson said.
“But we have to make sure everyone is ready to make this transition together – and we know some of our customers are still working through the steps they need to take to upgrade their devices. That’s why we’ve decided to provide more time and further support.
“Soon, customers yet to upgrade will hear a short message on impacted mobiles when making an outgoing call as a reminder they need to act. This pre-recorded message will only be removed once they’ve upgraded.
“Moving customers onto 4G and 5G services will mean a big leap forward for mobile connectivity across Australia. It will allow us to repurpose the 3G spectrum so we can extend our 5G network and create a more reliable network and a better experience for our customers.
“Closing Australia’s 3G networks is a significant step that will lead to improved connectivity for the nation, so please act quickly to check your devices and upgrade today or get in touch with us for help.”