3G shutdown: will your phone still work?

Short for ‘third generation’, 3G describes a wave of cellular network technology. It was the first generation to truly support mobile internet, but it’s been superseded by 4G and 5G.

The mobile operators point to extensive 4G coverage as a reason 3G isn’t required any more. Spark claims that 98% of New Zealanders are serviced by its 4G network. However, the industry recognises there’s still work to do to expand 4G coverage – One NZ claims that by 31 December, “you’ll be able to access 4G everywhere you currently have a 3G signal”.

The final 2G network in the country, belonging to One NZ, is also being switched off – on the same day as its 3G network.

Some 4G phones won’t be able to make calls

If you have a very basic mobile phone or older second-hand smartphone, don’t assume you’ll be able to call using 4G.

Even if your mobile is 4G-enabled, it might fall back to 3G for voice, rendering you unable to make phone calls after 3G shuts down.

Initially, 4G was focused on data only. Phone manufacturers and network operators alike reserved 4G for new mobile internet opportunities, retaining 3G for voice calling.

Later, the industry introduced VoLTE (voice over long-term evolution), which let compatible devices make calls over the 4G network. Sometimes VoLTE is simply called ‘4G calling’.

Calls using VoLTE have better sound quality and quicker connection times. They also don’t use up your 4G data allowance. Instead, they are charged by the minute or as a separate item on your mobile plan (like 3G calls).

However, VoLTE adoption was relatively slow among low-cost handsets, and some cheaper 3G-calling only devices are still in use.

You can check lists of VoLTE-compatible devices for the Spark, One NZ and 2degrees networks. However, support is only guaranteed if you bought directly from your mobile provider.

How to activate VoLTE in your phone settings

If you see a small VoLTE symbol at the top of your phone screen next to the signal bar, it means VoLTE is active.

If your phone has a setting to switch on VoLTE, here’s roughly where to find it for the three main brands.

• Apple: iPhones with iOS 14 or later use VoLTE by default, but you can go to Settings > Mobile > Mobile Data Options (or select your SIM) > Voice & Data to check 4G and/or 5G are on.

• Samsung: Settings > Connections > Mobile networks. Switch on VoLTE calls.

• OPPO: Settings > Dual SIM & Cellular Network (or ‘SIM card and mobile data’). Choose your SIM. Switch on VoLTE calls.

If you can’t see a VoLTE option in your settings, or if VoLTE isn’t working, contact your mobile provider. It might need to add VoLTE to your account from its end.

Can you get by with internet-based instant messaging?

If your phone doesn’t have VoLTE but can use 4G for data, you might be tempted to use a service like WhatsApp or Messenger for calling. You can use these internet-based platforms over WiFi when you’re at home or through 4G data while you’re out.

The big risk with not having a cellular connection is how you will be able to deal with an emergency.

Over 4G and 5G, network operators prioritise 111 calls for the best possible connection and send through your location to save precious seconds.

Internet-based services route calls in such a way that a 111 call may fail to get through at all. Even if it works, the call won’t be prioritised like it is over cellular.

What to do if you’ve recently bought a 3G-only phone

Any device recently sold for the purpose of voice calling should have VoLTE. We think if you’ve bought a phone in the past year that relies on 3G calling and you weren’t told it will stop working this year, the phone is not fit for purpose. You’d be within your rights to ask for a refund or replacement under the Consumer Guarantees Act.

The New Zealand Telecommunications Forum (TCF) is the industry body representing telecommunications companies. Its chief executive, Paul Brislen, says retailers shouldn’t be selling products that have a limited lifespan.

“Retailers and importers have known for some time that the shutdown is coming and should be well prepared,” he says.

The final network operator to announce its 3G shutdown, 2degrees, did so in July 2023, signalling a late 2025 end date. Even before that, the signs were clear that 3G was on its way out.

The TCF is also concerned that offshore retailers may be unloading old stock that no longer works in other countries. It advises consumers to ask specifically about 3G reliance when buying devices.

“Customers always need to be wary when buying products. But the onus is on the retailer to make sure the products they sell are compliant with the relevant legislation,” says Brislen.