Things to know about our 3G shutdown
We're switching off 3G from late 2025
In our quest to constantly improve our network, sometimes we need to wave goodbye to older technology. That’s why we, along with other mobile operators in NZ, are shutting down our 3G service towards the end of 2025 to enhance our 4G services and support the growth of 5G technology.
You might already be using 4G for voice calls, also known as VoLTE in your network settings. If that's the case you're all set—no extra steps needed. Not sure if your phone is 4G capable? To keep connected after the 3G shutdown you’ll need to check. There are 3 simple ways to check so choose the one that works for you.
1. Choose from the below to see if your phone is 4G capable:
2. Check your settings
Once you’ve checked your device is 4G capable, you may still need to update a couple of settings. First we’d recommend that you make sure your phone has the latest software update.
- iPhone: Go to Settings > General > Software Update
- Android: Go to Settings > Software Update
Switching on VoLTE in your settings
If you’ve checked your device is 4G capable, and your phone software has been updated, you may still need to switch ‘VoLTE’ on in your settings.
- iPhone: Go to Settings > Mobile > Mobile Data Options > Voice and Data > Ensure 5G or 4G is ticked (dependent on phone capability) and that VoLTE toggle is enabled.
- Samsung: Go to Settings > Connections > Mobile networks, ensure network mode is set as 5G or 4G auto connect (dependent on phone capability) and VoLTE calls are enabled.
- Other Android: Go to Settings > Mobile networks > select SIM, ensure network mode is set as 5G or 4G auto connect (dependent on phone capability) and VoLTE calls are enabled.
Note: More detailed instructions including dual SIM settings can be found here.
If you’ve got a 4G capable device and you’ve switched on ‘VoLTE’ in your settings you're all set—nothing more to do!
3. What to do if you don’t have a 4G capable phone
You’ll need to upgrade to a 4G capable device to keep connected after the 3G shutdown. We offer a range of affordable 4G and 5G ready phones any 2degrees store or online.
Note: We don’t recommend giving your old phone to someone else since it won't work after the shutdown. Bring it to us to recycle through our mobile recycling programme! Simply pop in and drop your unwanted phone into the recycle bin or in the envelopes provided in our stores.
3G Shutdown FAQs
In NZ, there are three mobile network operators (2degrees, Spark, and One NZ) that use Radio Access Network (RAN) tech for their services. Over time, this technology evolves and improves, and we refer to this as different generations or ‘G’s. Currently, mobile networks in NZ have a mix of third, fourth, and fifth generation technologies, called 3G, 4G, and 5G. Most new phones work with 3G, 4G, and 5G, but some older phones only work with 3G. As newer tech rolls out, older generations, like 2G and 3G, get phased out to make way for faster networks.
It's been a great run since 3G was introduced in 2009, but the future lies in the faster 4G and 5G networks. We're upgrading to make sure you're hooked up with top-notch connectivity! Many mobile operators worldwide are starting to or have already shut down their 3G networks to make room for improvements to 4G and 5G networks.
If your device is not 4G capable it will not work after 3G is switched off. This includes the ability to:
- Make phone calls
- Send or receive messages
- Make emergency calls to ‘111’ on the 2degrees Network
- Use data or connect to the internet
There are a small number of areas where only 3G is available today, we are working to expand our 4G coverage in those areas before we switch off the 3G network.
Mobile operators in some countries like the USA and Australia, are either starting to or have already shutdown their 3G networks.
From 28 October 2024, all 3G networks in Australia have shutdown. Without an up-to-date phone, you won't be able to use voice services while roaming. To avoid any issues, check your phone is VoLTE roaming capable before your trip.
Find out which overseas countries have VoLTE when roaming.
Some phones support 4G calling but not in areas where low band spectrum is used which is primarily in rural areas. We’d recommended upgrading to a fully 4G capable phone or you won't be able to make or receive calls in these areas following the 3G Shutdown.
For those on our Vulnerable Consumers Registration, no action is required at this time. Our dedicated care team will provide assistance and ensure that the phone you’ve been provided with is good to go.
If you have any questions, get in touch with our team by email at vulnerableconsumer@support.2degrees.nz or give us a call on 0800 022 022.
If you’re using medical or security alarms they might still be relying on 3G technology. If you're concerned your alarm may be impacted, please check with your current device provider to ensure it’s up to date and compatible with 4G.
The 3G shutdown will impact all customers on the 2degrees network, no matter which brand they're with. The information on this page applies to everyone on our network. If you're with another brand that is powered by 2degrees and you need assistance you’ll need to reach out to your provider if you have queries or issues.
If you need a hand simply simply call Customer Care on 0800 022 022 or visit your nearest 2degrees store and our staff can help you out.
Enter your phone’s IMEI number below. This is a 15-digit number that can be found by dialling *#06#, in your device settings, or printed on your phone.
Note: Ensure there are no spaces between the numbers, and when typing your IMEI number don't include the word 'IMEI'.
