Verizon, a major wireless company in the United States, has announced that it will no longer offer 3G cellular data as of December 31st, 2022. It marks the end of an era for 3G technology, a technology that has facilitated the evolution of smartphones and internet connectivity over the last two decades.
It was 3G technology that brought connection speeds that allowed for basic internet browsing and data transfer, paving the way for smartphones and other mobile devices. However, with the advancements of 4G and 5G networks, Verizon has decided to discontinue its 3G services.
This transition may bring challenges for businesses using devices only capable of accessing 3G networks, such as older models of phones, diagnostic machinery, or tablets. These devices will no longer have network access, including emergency calls. Also, numbers registered to accounts that have yet to migrate to more advanced networks by February 2023 will no longer have network access.
In order to support its customers during the transition, Verizon has provided free 4G phones to affected customers. In addition, many businesses still using 3G devices have been working with Verizon to develop an efficient migration plan to upgrade to 4G and 5G-enabled equipment.
The discontinuation of 3G will not affect all Verizon customers. Verizon has reported that less than 1% of its customers use the 3G network, and customers were informed well in advance of the discontinuation.
Verizon's decision to discontinue 3G marks a significant step in the evolution of cellular technology. As a result, Verizon can concentrate on developing and implementing advanced network services, such as 5G, cutting maintenance costs for older networks, and reusing frequencies previously reserved for 3G services. Business owners should stay up to date with the latest technological advancements on the market. This will enable them to take advantage of the increased productivity and efficiency offered through new technologies and consider upgrading to more advanced equipment.
About the Author
Marty Parker
Owner & General Manager
Marty is the Owner and General Manager of Heritage Digital. Marty has managed and built high-performing IT teams for over 30 years. He served 13 years in the manufacturing industry and 13 years in corporate-owned healthcare organizations. Before acquiring Heritage Digital, Marty was the Chief Information Officer of Carolinas Hospital System (now MUSC Health Florence Medical Center) in Florence, SC. Marty is passionate about educating and protecting people against cybercriminals.
