The power of the internet and mobile computing has enabled businesses to find efficiencies in ways that were previously never possible. This has created high demand for ever-faster mobile internet speeds, pushing wireless carriers to make plans for an even faster 5G network. With this faster service available, will it mean a 3G network shutdown?
Carriers have been balancing the support of various network speeds and infrastructures—including 2G, 3G, and 4G—for too long, which has been costly and inefficient. The inefficiencies it has created caused AT&T to sunset 2G all together.
The debut of 5G means that the current 3G spectrum could be repurposed for 5G LTE. In fact, Verizon has already been doing just that. For example, the carrier is now using LTE data in Cleveland and Manhattan on frequencies that were previously reserved for 3G—a small step, signaling greater potential for a 3G network shutdown.
3G has remained prevalent for voice calling and text messages. However, Voice over LTE (VoLTE) is becoming increasingly prevalent, spelling demise for the 3G network entirely. T-Mobile’s CTO Neville Ray explained that as of 2017, 70% of T-Mobile’s voice calls are VoLTE. He hopes to eradicate the need for 3G by 2020.
As of June 2017, AT&T has not permitted new 3G devices to enter the certification lab, a clear shift towards LTE devices only. Other carriers, including Verizon and T-Mobile, have announced that they will cease supporting devices still using the 3G network. With the fizzling support for 3G devices, it seems only natural that the next step will be a 3G network shutdown.
So what does this mean for consumers and business owners?
It’s critical to stay informed. Although preparations are in order, the 3G network shutdown is primarily speculation at this point. It will be slow and gradual, but the initial steps are in order, as seen by device support dwindling and 2G heading out the door. It’s best to keep an eye to the news and work closely with your device providers to ensure the technology you are using isn’t going to suddenly become obsolete.
How should you prepare?
As the old adage goes, knowledge is power. Business owners and IT decision makers should know whether any of their current devices are running on 3G. Take inventory of your present technology—are all of your devices 4G compatible? If not, it may be time to start creating a plan for upgrading.
Be sure to budget both the appropriate time and money for a major conversion. The last thing any business needs is a mad scramble to upgrade. You’ll want to be able to have the rollouts in place prior to loosing support or coverage for your devices with the 3G network shutdown. If not, it could mean a major hit to your business’s efficiencies and ultimately your bottom line.
Next, ensure the devices you select are LTE compatible. Honeywell has a host of 4G devices to meet your business needs and to ensure your tech won’t be left in the dark during the 3G network shutdown.
