Time to Upgrade: Bad News for Texans With Old, Outdated, Ugly 3G Phones

Bad news for those still using 3G phones and devices. Service providers are moving on and phasing out 3G networks in 2022.

Yes, I love a classic, whether it's a classic movie, a classic car, a classic video game, but when it comes to classic phones, forget it. Give me the upgrade!

If you've been stubborn about upgrading your outdated phone because you simply love a classic, this will not be pleasant news for you.

According to the FCC, all the major providers will start phasing out 3G service as early as January 1, 2022.

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T-Mobile says they will shut down Sprint’s 3G network on January 1, 2022, while AT&T is set to do the same by February 2022. T-Mobile says they will shut down their 3G network on July 1, 2022. Verizon is set to hold out the longest, with 3G service stopping by Dec. 31, 2022.

The FCC also notes that there are many other carriers that use Verizon, AT&T and T-Mobile networks, so customers of other providers that are using 3G may also be affected.

The FCC also says this will affect “certain older 4G mobile phones that do not support Voice over LTE (VoLTE or HD Voice).”  It's important to note that only certain 4G phones will be affected. Most current 4G phones and devices should be fine. As a Verizon spokesperson says, “We are still heavily investing in our 4G network and will for many years to come.”
According to CTIA, only about 9% of those using wireless connections in the U.S. are doing so with 2G or 3G subscriptions, so this shouldn't be a big problem for most people.

Nonetheless, there are those out there that will wonder why their phones aren't working at some point next year. It's time for an upgrade!